Thursday, 29 Sep 2011
Image - Dananananaykroyd – © Digital Pyrotechnics
Music
UK music is a distinctive international brand – hard to define precisely, but with an unmistakable energy and authenticity.
Every region in the UK has generated, and continues to produce, world-class music talent in every genre – from classical and jazz, to pop and rock.
Such talent represents a highly valuable and exportable economic asset for the UK, which, in volume terms, has the second-largest music market in Europe and the fourth-largest in the world. UK music exports, a major influence on the world’s music tastes and trends, are worth some US$2 billion each year. In 2010, the UK strengthened its position as a net exporter of music, growing its trade balance three times faster than the US.
Leading names in all fields of the music business are drawn to the UK, attracted by its high levels of musical education, its rich creative reputation and tradition, its cultural diversity and its sophisticated audiences. It is also one of the world’s most advanced markets for digital music.
As well as the UK being home to major recorded-music businesses, the country also offers a booming independent sector. This plays a crucial role in supporting new musical talent.
The UK hosts globally renowned music festivals such as Glyndebourne and Glastonbury and is a must-stop venue for international artists on tour, adding to the quality and depth of live music available week-in, week-out across the country.
The UK has a strong track record in developing and promoting the international careers of its talented composers and performers. Recent years have seen UK acts achieve both huge critical success and multi-platinum sales in domestic and worldwide markets. They are also regular winners of top international awards such as the Grammys.
Publication: UKTI export and investment guide
The UK music industry is one of the UK’s biggest and most culturally significant creative sectors. It encompasses composers, producers, managers, music publishers, artists, concert promoters, record companies and online music entrepreneurs that interact to produce a dynamic, vibrant and ever-changing industry.
The UKT British Music guide provides information specialists, events and advice on visiting overseas markets.
Download the UKTI British Music guide