Ireland takes centre stage as the focus country for 2027. By focusing on Ireland, ESNS recognises the country’s strong investment in artists and forward-thinking music infrastructure. Among the special Irish guests already confirmed is Dan Lambert (manager Kneecap). He will unpack what it takes to break a band out of Ireland and achieve international success in today’s global music industry. Also, a panel including Angela Dorgan (First Music Contact) among others will focus on how Irish artists are supported through strategic state investment, such as a basic income for artists. The conversation will explore how this support has helped shape the success of Ireland’s music sector.

Additionally, Eleanor McGuinness (agent at Earth Agency), Will Rolfe (co-founder and booker All Together Now and In The Meadows) and Declan Forde (co-founder Electric Picnic) will take part in a panel discussion on the independent side of Ireland’s live music market, exploring the festivals, events and key players shaping the sector today.

Lisa Schoemaker, Head of Conference ESNS:

The programme will feature a keynote interview with legendary Dutch guitarist Adrian Vandenberg, celebrating his 50-year career in music. Best known for his work with Vandenberg and as a member for 12 years during the peak period of the iconic rock band Whitesnake, Vandenberg will look back on his remarkable journey through the international rock scene and reflect on five decades of music. Also joining the conference programme is Karin de Groot, CEO of Dutch collective management organisation BumaStemra, and author and founder of Sound Diplomacy, Shain Shapiro who will introduce his upcoming book How Music Can Save the World.

ESNS is also proud to welcome FRÉ (Frederike Berendsen) and LORAL (Laura Overbeeke) of Music Declares Emergency Netherlands, who will present the workshop Your Unique Impact Training. The session explores ways music professionals can create meaningful change within the industry and beyond. In addition, the Country Music Association (CMA) will present a panel discussion on the growth of country music in Europe, how U.S. artists are approaching the European market, and the opportunities for European acts in Nashville, featuring Sina Hall (Promoter of C2C Berlin), and Wouter de Wilde (Greenhouse Talent). On top of that, Max Busin (Founder and CEO Gotobeat) will share insights into the role of data and AI in live music curation.

One of the programme highlights is the panel debate on the recently published European Commission study Discoverability of Diverse European Cultural Content in the Digital Environment, with the confirmed participation of Martin Clarke, Project Manager at Panteia and research lead in this particular EU study. As streaming platforms and algorithms continue to shape listening habits, discoverability has become one of the music industry’s key challenges. During ESNS, Clarke will present the findings of the highly anticipated Discoverability Report in a discussion with policymakers, researchers, and music industry professionals from across Europe.

Delegate Passes for ESNS27 are now available at a Medium rate. Secure yours now before prices go up via the button below and enjoy full access to everything ESNS has to offer, including:

• Fast-lane entry to 250+ showcases
• Full access to the ESNS Conference
• Exclusive networking lounges and hospitality areas
• Access to the ESNS Delegates Database and ESNS Analytics with up-to-date artist data

Hotels
Hotels for ESNS27 are already available to book, including special deals and packages. Additional hotel rooms were released today, providing more accommodation options for delegates. Book early to secure the best available rates. More accommodation options will be added to the hotels page as soon as they become available.