ESNS is the key exchange and networking platform for European music, with a proven track record for helping new and upcoming acts break into the international music scene. Image credit: Shutterstock.
From 15 to 18 January 2025, ESNS will host around 40,000 music fans and professionals in the city of Groningen, for four days of exploring European talent. Successful applicants can apply to the PRS Foundation International Showcase Fund for financial support.
Apply to play
ESNS invites all European artists to showcase at Eurosonic Noorderslag by submitting an online application. The deadline for applications is September 1 2024.
ESNS traditionally books acts from across the continent, offering a broad and proportionate programme.
Performing artists must hold a passport issued by one of the eligible countries, and only acts from European countries are eligible to play at ESNS.
Successful applicants can apply for international showcase funding
The International Showcase Fund (ISF) offers grants of up to £5,500 for international export opportunities for UK-based artists.
Successful applicants for ESNS 2025 can therefore apply for funding to cover costs including those for international and domestic travel, visas, accommodation, and artist/band fees.
To find out more, visit the ISF guidance and FAQs page.
Dave Webster, MU Head of International, regularly attends the showcase. If you are successful in applying you can contact Dave at etouring@themu.org to arrange to meet up and discuss the work of the MU and how we support our members.
You can also visit our advice page on working in the EU for guidance, resources and answers to common questions.
Automatically enrol in the ESNS Exchange programme
ESNS Exchange, co-funded by the European Union's Creative Europe programme, facilitates the booking of European acts at festivals outside their home countries and works to generate significant media exposure for these artists.
In this way, ESNS Exchange aims to boost the international careers of European artists.
Artists who are invited to showcase at ESNS are automatically enrolled into the ESNS Exchange programme.
To date, ESNS Exchange has supported 2,259 European artists from 37 countries, enabling them to perform at an impressive 5,533 shows across 196 partner festivals in 44 countries.
Attend ESNS Conference
The annual ESNS Conference will be taking place during the daytime, allowing attendees to meet with key European music industry players and discuss the latest trends.
ESNS also welcomes ideas for panels, keynotes, workshops and other programme contributions for the ESNS conference and will be launching an open call later this year.