Applications Now Open - Sound Roots Artist Mentoring Pathway 2027/2028
The Sound Roots Artist Mentoring Pathway has been running since 2018, equipping emerging folk, roots and acoustic musicians with the skills, networks and experience they need to build sustainable careers in music.
Over 12 months, this intensive pathway supports early-career artists to demystify the international music industry, develop their professional networks, profile and gain experience performing at some of the UK’s leading folk events.
To find out more about the 2027/28 pathway, read the guidance here.
To apply, click here.
Applications are open until 11:59pm on Friday 25 September 2026.
2026 / 2027 Cohort: Eleanor Dunsdon & Gregor Black, Arthur Coates & Kerran Cotterell, Ceitidh Mac and Something Sleeps
Chris Avery, member of Filkin’s Drift (2025/2026 cohort):
“The Sounds Roots Artist Mentoring Pathway is such a lifeline for early-career musicians. (It's) been totally transformative. Our monthly mentoring helped us chart a clear course through a confusing industry. We’re now building our career through a more intentional touring schedule. Previously intimidating words like publishing and PR have been demystified and we better understand how to maximise the impact of an album release.”
Katherine Priddy (2020/2021 cohort):
“The English Folk Expo Artist Mentoring Programme gave me access to the support, tools and community I needed to take the next step in my music career and release my debut album. Prior to the programme, I struggled with confidence and felt easily intimidated by professional situations and those I met in the industry. During my time with EFEx, I had to make some big decisions that would determine the direction my career would take, such as choosing a record label and tackling a publishing deal. By matching me up with an incredible mentor, who I was able to build a great relationship with, as well as giving me access to a wealth of contacts and experience, I felt well-equipped and supported in making these decisions and I have come out of the programme feeling much more confident in myself and my ability to navigate the industry moving forwards.”
David Agnew, Sound Roots Chief Executive and Artistic Director:
“The Artist Mentoring Pathway (AMP) is a fantastic programme that supports artists at a pivotal stage in their careers, giving them the knowledge, connections and opportunities to take their work to the next level. We’re proud of the impact the AMP has had in helping artists build their networks, develop sustainable careers and connect with new audiences, both in the UK and internationally.
“We’re incredibly grateful to our funders, including Arts Council England, PRS Foundation, The Leche Trust, GMCA Culture Fund and Jerwood Foundation. We can’t wait to welcome the next cohort and see where their music takes them.”
This pathway is only possible with the support of our funders including Jerwood Foundation, PRSF Talent Development Network, GMCA Culture Fund, The Leche Trust and Arts Council England.
