Keeping the Beat Alive: Latest government policy offers lifeline to Scotland’s grassroot music venues
The Scottish music scene is renowned for turning emerging artists into big stars, but many iconic venues are struggling to stay open.
But thanks to the UK Government’s latest policy, a portion of ticket sales from large-scale events like arena and stadium shows will be directed to grassroot venues, promoters and artists.
The initiative is being called a “life-line” by campaigners such as Music Venue Trust, and is expected to help preserve Scottish music venues and their ability to support small artists.
The levy comes at a time when rising costs and closures have jeopardised the live music scene across the UK.
Sophie Asquith, Venue Support Team Manager at Music Venue Trust, sees the policy as a crucial step forward.
She said: “Music Venue Trust is thrilled that the UK Government has recognised the vital role that grassroots music venues play in our world-famous music industry. These venues are incubators of talent both on and off the stage, but they cannot continue shouldering the financial risks of early career shows without support.
“This should be seen as a charitable donation within the ticket price. It’s an essential contribution to protect and secure the future of our grassroots artists, venues, and promoters.”
Scottish pop artist Emelie Leslie also welcomed the move, highlighting its potential to reinvigorate local music scenes.
“It’s so important to have a venue there that we can play, and over the past couple of years, a lot of small venues around Glasgow and the UK have shut because there’s not been that support or funding from the government,” she said.
“The news today about the percentage coming off of ticket sales is incredible. It means the money’s going to smaller artists and venues, encouraging them to grow. It’s bringing such a good community together, and I can’t wait to see how it goes.”
