New board seeks to champion Leicester music scene

A new music board has been formed to promote Leicester as one of the UK’s leading music cities.

Leicester Music Board, which has the support of Leicester City Council, will develop the Leicester Music Conference and Festival 2025 and aims to prevent an “exodus of talent” from the city.

Yasin El Ashrafi, who founded the Leicester Music Conference, said: “I’m genuinely excited about our ambitions for the city.

“With a powerful blend of expertise across music, education and community, we have an incredible foundation to build upon.

“Together, we’re working to elevate Leicester’s music scene, ensuring it remains vibrant, inclusive and impactful for generations to come.”

Sarah Barton-Wales, head of Leicestershire Music, said the board is “leading the way to bridge the gap between music education and the music industry”.

“The board will place industry and education side by side to make sure that young people are supported into a career much better and equipped with the skills to build their careers in the way that they want to.”