nextWAV.

SESSION 1: ARTIST DNA

28 Sep – 2 Oct 2026

Artist identity and case studies

Explore what makes an artist distinctive in today’s music landscape through real-world examples and industry case studies. Students will begin identifying the foundations of their own creative identity, influences, and long-term artistic vision.

Aesthetic development (visual direction, styling)

Learn how visual identity plays a role in modern artist development – from fashion and styling to imagery, moodboards, and creative direction. Students will explore how visuals can strengthen their music and storytelling.

Narrative, storytelling, and tone of voice

Develop an understanding of how artists communicate who they are, what they stand for, and how they connect emotionally with audiences through storytelling, messaging, and creative consistency.

Understanding how to connect with an audience

Explore the foundations of fan connection and audience engagement, including authenticity, community, and the importance of building meaningful relationships with listeners.

18 – 22 Jan 2027

Songwriting craft and creative development

Build songwriting techniques and creative confidence through guided workshops focused on structure, lyric writing, melody, collaboration, and artistic expression.

Recording fundamentals and studio experience

Gain hands-on exposure to the recording process, including studio etiquette, vocal recording, session workflows, and the fundamentals of music production.

Working with producers, songwriters, and engineers

Learn how creative collaboration works within professional recording environments while working alongside experienced industry practitioners across multiple disciplines.

Understanding both creative and technical

Develop a broader understanding of how music moves from an idea to a finished recording, balancing creativity with the technical skills required in modern music-making.

13 – 18 Apr 2027

Building and rehearsing a live set

Understand how artists prepare for live performance, including set construction, rehearsal processes, stage preparation, and performance dynamics.

Performance opportunities

Gain practical live experience through performance opportunities designed to help build confidence, stage presence, and audience connection.

Behind-the-scenes experience at live events

Receive insight into the live music ecosystem through backstage and side-of-stage experiences, learning how artists, crews, promoters, and venues work together to deliver live events.

Understanding the business of live music

Gain insight into how live music operates behind the scenes – from promoters and venues to touring, ticketing, budgets, and artist growth strategies. Students will develop an understanding of how artists build sustainable live careers over time.

5 – 9 JUL 2027

Content creation and social media fundamentals

Learn the role content plays in modern artist development, including short-form video, platform fundamentals, creative consistency, and communicating with audiences online.

Fan engagement and community building

Explore how artists build loyal fan communities through storytelling, interaction, consistency, and creating moments that audiences genuinely connect with.

Practical tools to grow an audience

Gain insight into the digital tools, strategies, and platforms artists use to build visibility, grow engagement, and develop sustainable audiences over time.

One-on-one mentor sessions to refine artist identity

Participate in mentor-led feedback sessions focused on refining creative direction, artistic goals, and personal growth throughout the programme.