After a successful, and inaugural 2020 event and an online event in 2022 , On Point returned to The Georgian theatre, Stockton on Friday 17th February 2023.

The day-long music conference offered artists and activists advice to help them through the cost-of-living crisis – which was of great concern at the time.

The event included a series of panels and round-table discussions featuring industry professionals discussing ways in which to make money from music and keep costs down, as well as providing information on funding and support that can be accessed in the region.

Ahead of the event, Tees Music Alliance Chief Executive Paul Burns said, “We’re genuinely excited to be welcoming some really knowledgeable music businesses experts through our doors as part of On Point 2023.

“There’s a wealth of developing talent here in the Tees Valley, and getting the chance to discuss current music industry issues on home turf is an opportunity that rarely comes around.   It’s shaping up to be a great day.”

Music Development Manager David Saunders added, “The cost of living crisis is having a big impact on artists (both signed and independent) being able to tour and release music, as well as actually being able to be musicians in the first place, e.g in terms of affording equipment, lessons, etc. We’re hoping that these talks and roundtable sessions will give some practical, and maybe overlooked, advice on how musicians can save money or, dare I say it, even make money from their music.

“Aside from the valuable information that can be obtained from the day, the event brings artists and activists from around the region under one roof, which in turn creates networking opportunities, alongside a sense of community and solidarity that can be morale boosting in these tough times.”