The 30th edition of WOMEX in Manchester, UK, has come to a close. A heartfelt thank you to our conference speakers, film producers, exhibitors, showcase artists, and, of course, the incredible music-loving community that defines WOMEX — you continuously inspire and energize us all.
Throughout the event, diversity, inclusivity, and cultural exchange were at the forefront. Over five days in Manchester, we journeyed through global music, participated in thought-provoking talks and sessions, watched amazing films, networked, shared, connected, rekindled old friendships, made new ones, and celebrated the vibrant global music scene.
This year’s WOMEX brought together 2,850 music professionals, from 118 countries, including 290 performing artists, from over 45 countries. The event featured 61 artist showcases across 7 stages, 18 music-based documentaries, and 88 conference speakers and mentors who engaged participants with thought-provoking discussions on the latest issues shaping the global music industry. The trade fair, featuring over 738 exhibiting companies with 246 stands, continued to serve as a bustling hub for networking and collaboration.
Mark your calendars — 22 to 26 October 2025 — as we look forward to welcoming you all to Tampere, Finland.
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Resounding Global Harmony Through Music
The 30th edition of WOMEX successfully concluded on Sunday with the Awards Ceremony at Aviva Studios in Manchester, marking the end of five days filled with exciting performances, meaningful discussions, and global connections.
The event came to an end in a memorable and standing-ovation-worthy performance by Hermeto Pascoal's band, The Mothership. Pascoal was honoured with the prestigious WOMEX Artist Award 2024 for his extraordinary and uncompromising artistic vision throughout his remarkable 74-year career as a musician and composer. Despite Hermeto's absence due to medical reasons, his iconic band affectionately named [/i]Nave Mãe[/i] (The Mothership) graced the stage with a special performance of celebration. Hermeto's son and the rest of the band accepted the award. Hermeto made a special appearance on-screen with a video message sharing his appreciation on receiving the award.
The Professional Excellence Award was presented to the international non-profit organization In Place of War (IPOW), recognized for its impactful use of art and music to create lasting change for individuals and communities affected by conflict around the globe. This moment once again underscored the profound power of music to unite diverse communities and cultures.
Additionally, the 20 Top Independent Labels of the Year were celebrated, acknowledging their essential role in supporting and promoting a wide array of diverse global sounds.
WOMEX Travels to Tampere
WOMEX is gearing up to celebrate its 31st edition in Tampere, Finland. Set to take place from October 22 to 26, 2025, this marks the second time in Finland with its last edition in 2019.
As Finland’s third-largest city, Tampere boasts a unique blend of urban energy and scenic charm, nestled between two stunning lakes and surrounded by lush forests. The city is home to a rich music culture, with a strong tradition of fostering creativity and embracing diversity — making it an ideal destination for WOMEX’s continued celebration of music, culture, and exchange.
The call for proposals for 2025 will open in January 2025.
article posted by:Gideon Elfgen, Piranha Arts