Young producers to take centre stage in new music project
Young people from across the Falkirk Council area are getting the chance to take the spotlight - not on stage, but behind the scenes - thanks to a new initiative that will give them hands-on experience of how live events are made.
Called ‘World Music Day - Young Producers’, the programme is being run by Falkirk Council in partnership with Falkirk Delivers to help 16 to 18 year olds learn the ropes of event planning and production.
The launch follows more than 6,000 responses to the New Falkirk Town Hall Young Person’s Survey, which highlighted a strong desire among young people to have a say in local events and better access to creative spaces and opportunities.
πΆ World Music Day Falkirk
From January to June next year, the young producers will lead the planning and delivery of ‘World Music Day' Falkirk, a free, town-centre celebration of live music taking place on Sunday 21 June 2026.
Working alongside industry mentors and the Council’s arts team, the young producers will help shape everything from the line-up of local performers to marketing, staging and event logistics.
It’s a rare opportunity to not only learn how live events are organised but also make the event something young people can call their own.
π‘ Building skills and confidence
The initiative aims to give young people practical experience in event management, promotion and teamwork - skills that are directly relevant to the creative industries and highly valued by future employers.
Participants will be supported throughout by Hazel Beattie, the Council’s Arts Development Officer (Performing Arts), who has more than 25 years’ experience in programming, event and venue management, and delivering large-scale community projects.
π How to apply
Applications are now being taken and are open to young people aged 16 to 18 years of age who live in the Falkirk Council area.
Applicants should be passionate about music, events or promotion, and be ready to roll up their sleeves and get involved.
Applications must be submitted by 5pm on Friday 16th January 2026.
Cllr Cecil Meiklejohn, Leader of Falkirk Council:
The enthusiasm and insight young people shared through the town hall survey was truly inspiring. They told us clearly that they want to be part of our area’s creative future - not just as audiences, but as organisers and contributors. The Young Producers programme gives them that chance. It’s a hands-on way to build skills in events, PR and marketing, and production, helping them gain new skills and experience that will boost their CVs and help them stand out in applications for college, university or future jobs.
Hazel Beattie added:
This is all about giving young people a voice and real responsibility. They’ll be the ones deciding who performs, how the day looks and feels and how to get audiences excited. We’ll be there to support and guide them, but the creative direction will be all theirs.
Elaine Grant, Manager for Falkirk Delivers, said:
World Music Day Falkirk is a fantastic opportunity for young people to gain hands-on experience in what it takes to plan and promote an event in a town centre setting. From learning about event coordination, marketing, and budgeting to developing practical skills such as first aid and social media training, this project helps build confidence and valuable employability skills.
“It’s also a great way to connect people with our town centre businesses, as events like this bring vibrancy and footfall into Falkirk, supporting local traders and encouraging community engagement. We’re delighted to be working in partnership with Falkirk Council to inspire creativity, nurture talent, and strengthen our town centre through music and collaboration.