ArtistDirect News
Output Belfast 2026: Free Music Conference to Transform Cathedral Quarter
On Thursday, 24 September 2026, the Cathedral Quarter of Belfast will pulse with the energy of Ireland’s largest one‑day music conference. The free event, organised by Output, will turn the streets surrounding St Anne’s Cathedral into a temporary hub for industry networking and learning.
Occupying the historic heart of the city, the conference will bring together musicians, producers, marketers and policy makers in a compact, immersive setting. The programme, which organisers describe as “a day of discovery and connection,” will feature almost 30 sessions, ranging from hands‑on workshops and masterclasses to panel discussions and thought‑provoking talks.
The opening keynote promises to be a highlight. Tom Kiehl, newly appointed Chief Executive of UK Music, will share the stage with Catherine Martin, Head of Policy for the Irish arm of the Ivors Academy. Martin, who launched the Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) pilot scheme in 2022, is widely recognised for reshaping how artists receive financial support. Their joint address will explore the evolving relationship between creative talent and the structures that sustain it.
Beyond the keynote, the agenda tackles practical concerns that resonate across the music ecosystem. A session on “How Producers Will Be Paid in 2026” will dissect current remuneration models and outline emerging standards. Another discussion will examine the growing arena of artist‑brand collaboration, offering case studies and best‑practice guidance. In a special spotlight, Northern Ireland singer‑songwriter Janet Devlin will share insights from her career, illustrating the challenges and opportunities that define the local scene.
Output’s mission is clear: to break through the barriers that have emerged as attention spans shrink and gatekeepers multiply. By offering a blend of educational content and networking opportunities, the conference aims to level the playing field for both emerging talent and established acts.
The Cathedral Quarter’s suitability for the event is no accident. A long‑standing centre for culture and nightlife, the area’s proximity to St Anne’s Cathedral and its growing array of bars, restaurants and creative venues provide an ideal backdrop for a music‑focused gathering. The decision to keep the conference free underscores Output’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement.
Registration is now open. Prospective attendees can sign up through the Output website, where they will receive a confirmation email and a detailed schedule of sessions.
The 2026 edition is billed as the conference’s biggest and most ambitious to date. By drawing together a diverse cross‑section of the Irish and UK music industries, Output Belfast seeks to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing that will reverberate beyond the single day.
In short, Output Belfast 2026 offers a comprehensive snapshot of the current music business landscape—from financial models for producers to brand partnership strategies and policy developments. The event’s free admission and extensive programme position it as a key resource for Northern Ireland’s music community.
Participants will leave the conference with actionable insights and new connections, ready to navigate the evolving music ecosystem.
Occupying the historic heart of the city, the conference will bring together musicians, producers, marketers and policy makers in a compact, immersive setting. The programme, which organisers describe as “a day of discovery and connection,” will feature almost 30 sessions, ranging from hands‑on workshops and masterclasses to panel discussions and thought‑provoking talks.
The opening keynote promises to be a highlight. Tom Kiehl, newly appointed Chief Executive of UK Music, will share the stage with Catherine Martin, Head of Policy for the Irish arm of the Ivors Academy. Martin, who launched the Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) pilot scheme in 2022, is widely recognised for reshaping how artists receive financial support. Their joint address will explore the evolving relationship between creative talent and the structures that sustain it.
Beyond the keynote, the agenda tackles practical concerns that resonate across the music ecosystem. A session on “How Producers Will Be Paid in 2026” will dissect current remuneration models and outline emerging standards. Another discussion will examine the growing arena of artist‑brand collaboration, offering case studies and best‑practice guidance. In a special spotlight, Northern Ireland singer‑songwriter Janet Devlin will share insights from her career, illustrating the challenges and opportunities that define the local scene.
Output’s mission is clear: to break through the barriers that have emerged as attention spans shrink and gatekeepers multiply. By offering a blend of educational content and networking opportunities, the conference aims to level the playing field for both emerging talent and established acts.
The Cathedral Quarter’s suitability for the event is no accident. A long‑standing centre for culture and nightlife, the area’s proximity to St Anne’s Cathedral and its growing array of bars, restaurants and creative venues provide an ideal backdrop for a music‑focused gathering. The decision to keep the conference free underscores Output’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement.
Registration is now open. Prospective attendees can sign up through the Output website, where they will receive a confirmation email and a detailed schedule of sessions.
The 2026 edition is billed as the conference’s biggest and most ambitious to date. By drawing together a diverse cross‑section of the Irish and UK music industries, Output Belfast seeks to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing that will reverberate beyond the single day.
In short, Output Belfast 2026 offers a comprehensive snapshot of the current music business landscape—from financial models for producers to brand partnership strategies and policy developments. The event’s free admission and extensive programme position it as a key resource for Northern Ireland’s music community.
Participants will leave the conference with actionable insights and new connections, ready to navigate the evolving music ecosystem.