York Theatre Royal

Music and film have always gone hand in hand – one amplifies emotion, the other sets the scene. Now, Aesthetica turns up the volume with the launch of the New Music Stage – a bold new platform spotlighting the UK’s most exciting rising stars in music.

This is where tomorrow’s headliners begin. Across the festival, up to ten breakthrough artists and bands will take to the stage, spanning genres from indie and folk to grime, jazz and experimental pop. Each one has been handpicked for their originality, energy, and potential to shape the sound of the future.

More than just a live set, this is a launchpad. These artists are in the running for industry recognition and exclusive mentorship with Universal Music, setting them on a path to real careers in music. Delivered in partnership with Talentbanq, Imagesound, and Caffè Nero, the New Music Stage is where discovery happens – where raw talent meets the right audience.

This is where it starts. Come and experience the future of sound – raw, bold and ready to take over.

Applications are now open for the Aesthetica New Music Stage Competition: Win £1,000, mentorship with Universal and perform on the New Music Stage at York Theatre Royal. Aesthetica is looking for bold, original musicians across all genres – from indie, jazz and pop to folk and hip-hop. Whether you’re self-releasing, unsigned, or just starting to break into the industry – this is your chance to perform at one of the UK’s leading arts festivals and connect with directors, producers, music supervisors, curators and key decision-makers. Find out more & submit your music here.

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Bands To Watch: New Music Stage