The Collective 2026 - Artist Development Programme

The Collective is a unique opportunity designed to support young aspiring musicians to develop their talent and produce socially conscious music relevant to the world we live in today. It is focused on young people who face barriers in accessing diverse music-making opportunities due to where they live around the country.

Since 2018, You Press have been nurturing the next generation of talented musicians with the help and support of Youth Music.

What will the programme involve and why should I apply?

The Collective is designed to support aspiring musicians to develop their talents and to produce socially conscious music. The programme will have training sessions, including:

• Vocal training

• Lyric Writing

• Music Production

• Confidence and Performance Techniques

Each training session will be led by a Music Leader who is a specialist in their subject area. There will also be an Arts Award Facilitator present at all sessions to lead the group work, enabling the artists to complete and be awarded with a Bronze Arts Award at the end of the programme.

We are looking to recruit 60 talented artists (split into three cohorts) who will work towards the creation of original music (some as collectives, some as soloists) that are inspired by social issues and topics in London communities. The selected artists will also have the opportunity to work in a recording studio to record their tracks and produce a collective album – to be published online for streaming. After the training sessions, artists will have an opportunity in the studio – where they will take part in rehearsal sessions before we host a live performance, showcasing all the original music created during the programme.

Artists who show particular commitment and promise will be invited to discuss being managed by You Press for future performances as freelance artists.

How long is the programme?

The Artist Development Programme will take place over 15 weeks for each cohort with a final showcase in Summer 2026. The training sessions will take place every week in East London (Location TBC).

How do I apply?

Register here to express your interest for The Collective 2026 and we’ll be in touch.

Are there any opportunities with the You Press team?

Absolutely! We are also recruiting for new facilitators and supporting artists to join our team and help the next generation of talented young artists. Register here to express your interest and we'll be in touch.