
It will celebrate Hull’s journey from a vibrant grassroots community to a globally recognised music city, the council said
An international music convention is set to come to Hull, the council has revealed. Music Cities Convention is the world’s leading global event exploring the relationship between music and urban development.
Coming to Hull in June 2026, it will celebrate Hull’s journey from a vibrant grassroots community to a globally recognised music city. More than 250 delegates from more than 25 countries will gather over three days to explore how music drives cultural, social, and economic change in cities around the world.
Over the last decade, the Music Cities Convention has convened policymakers, industry leaders and cultural entrepreneurs across four continents and 10 countries. The council said that Hull 2026 will shine a spotlight on a UK city that exemplifies how communities can leverage music for positive change.
From being named UK City of Culture in 2017 to its five-year plan to achieve UNESCO City of Music status by 2030, Hull has consistently placed music at the heart of civic pride, identity, and opportunity, the council further explained. The city’s legacy includes world-renowned acts like The Housemartins, Throbbing Gristle, Everything but the Girl, and rising stars such as Chiedu Oraka, as well as popstar Calum Scott.
Cllr Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure, spoke of his delight. He said: “We are delighted to be hosting this prestigious event in our great city next year.
“It’s events like the Music Cities Convention that show the world we are serious about our ambitions to become a UNESCO City of Music. We look forward to welcoming music specialists from across the globe to Hull and show them what we have on offer.”
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