A University of the West of Scotland-led international music exchange programme is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month.
EuroGig, which began in the 1996/97 academic year as an exchange between Scotland and Germany, has grown into a five-partner European network involving organisations in France, Italy and Belgium.
The programme, led by UWS, has helped more than 1,000 young people gain experience in the live music industry as performers, tour managers and technical support staff.
Since 2001, EuroGig has given students the chance to work on live music events both at home and abroad, helping them build practical experience while developing international connections.
Former participants have gone on to work with major organisations and events including TRNSMT, Glastonbury and DF Concerts, with many describing the exchange as a key stepping stone in their careers.
Sharon Riley, Director of Business & Legal Affairs with Virgin Music Group and a former BA (Hons) Commercial Music graduate and EuroGig tour manager, said: “I was a Eurogig tour manager 18 years ago and it was the perfect balance of real tour management with real responsibility, and genuinely great fun. It gave me the credibility and hands-on experience that opened doors I couldn’t have knocked on otherwise.”
Supported by Glasgow City Council since 2014, the initiative has benefited young people from 10 different nations and has become a highlight for many student musicians, offering the opportunity to perform to international audiences, often at European festival events.
This year’s 30th anniversary celebrations include an opening concert at King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut in Glasgow on Wednesday 25th March at 7pm, ahead of a reception at Glasgow City Chambers on Thursday 26th March.
Allan Dumbreck, Senior Lecturer and Deputy Programme Leader for BA (Hons) Commercial Music at UWS, said: “We are thrilled to reach this milestone, this initiative is a game-changer for our performers and tour managers. For 30 years, EuroGig has helped open doors for performers, tour managers and technical support teams, giving them the chance to develop their skills in real live-event environments and build valuable international connections.
“Seeing former participants go on to work at major events shows just how important opportunities like this can be in helping young people begin their careers in music.”
As part of the anniversary year, EuroGig will also work with Glasgow schools to help raise awareness of music industry opportunities among young people considering a career in the sector.