Off-Centre Artist Development Series Launches in Rochdale

Andy and Jez from Doves onstage at The Empire.

The Greater Manchester Music Commission is excited to announce the successful launch of Off-Centre, a new monthly series of free artist development sessions taking place across Greater Manchester.

Created to support emerging and early-career musicians, Off-Centre brings industry expertise, creative insights, and open conversation directly into local music communities.

The series officially began on 22nd October at The Empire in Rochdale, where Andy and Jez Williams of Doves led an inspiring deep dive into Collaboration & Songwriting. The session drew artists from across the borough, sparking creative discussion and setting the tone for what Off-Centre aims to deliver: practical, grounded support for those building their craft and careers.

The next event in the series will be held at The Snug in Atherton, Wigan, on Monday 24th. This session features acclaimed artist Laura White, who will speak about developing confidence in your artistry, navigating a career in the music industry, and the creative processes that have shaped her work. The conversation will be hosted by Martha from Incantation Music, bringing another layer of industry insight to the evening.

Off-Centre is part of the Commission’s wider mission to strengthen Greater Manchester’s music ecosystem by ensuring that professional development is accessible, free, and available in every borough.

Further dates and locations will be announced soon as the series continues to travel across the region.

To reserve a free ticket to Off Centre in Wigan on 24th November please follow the link.

Off Centre Wigan poster

Published by
Greater Manchester Music Commission