Speakers: Keith Millar [Relationship Manager - Help Musicians], David Culbert [Programme & Outreach Officer - Help Musicians] & Stephen McAll [Artist - Constant Follower]
For more than 100 years, Help Musicians has been a cornerstone of support for professional musicians across the UK, helping them build sustainable careers through a wide range of tailored services. From financial assistance to mental health and career development support, the charity plays a vital role in ensuring musicians are equipped to navigate the challenges of the ever-evolving music industry. This session will explore how Help Musicians continues to be an essential resource for artists at every stage of their journey, offering practical and emotional support when it's needed most.
This session will provide attendees with insights into the comprehensive services Help Musicians offers, including:
Financial Assistance: Grants for living costs, medical expenses, and essential equipment repairs.
Mental Health Support: Through the Music Minds Matter sister company, musicians can access a 24/7 helpline offering free counselling and emotional support, along with dedicated mental health programs tailored to the needs of the music community.
Creative Development: Funding opportunities and programs designed to help artists grow their careers, whether through training, touring, or creating new works.
Health & Welfare: Access to a range of health services, including hearing health support like audiology assessments and specialist tinnitus management, as well as broader medical assistance for performance-related health issues.
Attendees will also learn about how Help Musicians collaborates with other organisations and partners across the UK to amplify its impact and ensure that musicians from all regions, genres, and career stages can benefit from its programs. Whether you’re an emerging artist or an established professional, this conversation will offer invaluable advice and resources to help you navigate the challenges of a career in music.
Speaker Information:
Stephen McAll [Artist - Constant Follower]
Constant Follower, the project of Scottish songwriter Stephen McAll, emerged with the acclaimed album 'Neither Is, Nor Ever Was' on Shimmy Disc, marking his return to music after personal challenges. The album was shortlisted for the 2022 Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award and was followed in 2023 with a second SAY Award nomination for McAll's collaboration with Scott William Urquhart, Even Days Dissolve. Known for their atmospheric, meditative, and emotive sound, Constant Follower have captivated audiences worldwide, with notable performances at SXSW 22/23/24 and airplay on KEXP, WFMU, BBC Scotland and BBC6Music. Their eagerly anticipated second album is set for release in Feb 2025 on Last Night From Glasgow.
Keith Millar [Relationship Manager - Help Musicians]
Keith has worked in many roles in the live music industry in Northern Ireland including artist management, promotion and booking in addition to being part of the core team of Northern Ireland's largest independent outdoor festival.
His career with Help Musicians began in 2017, managing activities, outreach and partnerships at the charity's first national office, in Belfast.
In 2021 with the establishment of Help Musicians' Enagagement Team, Keith became the new team's Relationship Manager, extending his remit to the whole of the UK with a goal of extending the charity's reach to musicians in all areas through partnership with other organisations, events and individuals.
David Culbert [Programme & Outreach Officer - Help Musicians]
David was the first employee at Help Musicians in Scotland. His role as Development Officer helped establish the charity across Scotland. He had successfully delivered outreach strategy and collaborative activities engaging the needs of Scottish musicians and music creators.
In 2021 David moved into the newly established Engagement team, which supports musicians with their applications and represents the charity at various events across the UK.
David's career started as a sound engineer, studio owner, and musician. Over the years he has worked in the business start-up and support sector. He currently owns and operates the record label In Black Records & artist management company Black Group Entertainment.