Members of the new Hull Music Board have been revealed at the city’s first forum meeting.
Taking place at Connexin Live, the new board was officially launched to oversee the delivery of the Hull Music Plan 2025–2030 – a bold and inclusive five-year strategy to elevate Hull’s music sector and support with the city’s wider Culture & Heritage Strategy.
The Hull Music Board brings together a dynamic group of professionals from across the music, cultural, and creative sectors. Members include:
- James Dickinson, Head of Hull Music Service and Lead Partner for the Humber Music Hub
- Jenni Harrison, Creative Director and co-lead of Hull Music Net
- Sam Ryder, General Manager of Connexin Live
- Cllr Rob Pritchard, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Leisure
- James Meadows, SVP of Marketing at Chrysalis Records
- Gerard Gibbons, grassroots music advocate and business leader
- Damien Greco, cultural marketing professional and promoter
- Elle Douglas, Creative Manager at The Warren Youth Project
- Sarah Shiels, Director at The New Adelphi Club CIC and youth music champion
Councillor Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture, said: “Hull already has the creativity, grit and raw talent.
“What we need now is the infrastructure and backing to match it. This board is one of the first steps to show the world we’re serious about building a real music industry – one that creates lasting opportunities, raises the bar and proves we are well worth paying attention to.
Hull Musician, Sarah Shiels, said: “Hull’s music scene has shaped who I am – working in it, going to gigs, watching it grow. So I’m excited to be part of shaping what comes next.
“The board feels like a chance to back great ideas, open more doors and help Hull’s music culture get the recognition it deserves.”
Elle Douglas, Warren Youth Project Creative Director, said: “I’m excited to be on Hull’s Music Board to advocate for young people and musicians in the city.
“And to ensure, with partners, that Hull’s music scene continues to grow and thrive.”
The Hull Music Plan is built around four key themes:
1. A Focus on Inclusion – Ensuring fair and equal access to music opportunities, representation and decision-making for individuals, talent and communities.
2. The Strength of Our Stories – Raising Hull’s music profile nationally and internationally, including through the city’s UNESCO ambitions.
3. Championing Our Music Infrastructure – Supporting talent development, music education, creative sustainability, live music venues and audience growth.
4. The Power of Relationships – Strengthening collaborations and networks locally, regionally, nationally and globally.
The Hull Music Board will act as a strategic driver, advocate and connector—championing Hull’s music culture and ensuring music remains at the heart of the city’s future.
