Sonic Boom Music CIC (Sonic Boom) launches SPARK – a grassroots programme backing original local music in Burton upon Trent.
Sonic Boom Music CIC has unveiled SPARK, a new pilot artist development programme created to support grassroots, original music artists in Burton upon Trent and the surrounding area. Its pilot artists for spring 2026 have already been announced: Carl North, Dear Lily, Leah Wilcox, and Matt Kel.
At its heart, SPARK believes that local talent deserves local support – Not just performance opportunities, but the structure, knowledge, and pathways needed to build sustainable careers. It is designed to tackle barriers faced by emerging artists, aiming to nurture a thriving local music ecosystem – where musicians can grow without feeling like they have no choice but to leave their hometown in order to be taken seriously.
At Sonic Boom, a team of experienced local musicians and industry professionals come together to provide upcoming artists with practical, real-world support across key areas, including business knowledge and career planning; marketing, audience growth, and release strategy; relationships, networks, and peer collaboration; live performance development and access to opportunities; and understanding of the wider music ecosystem, from performing to publishing.
Most importantly, SPARK keeps fairness at its core. Sonic Boom is committed to paying artists and technicians properly, rejecting the idea that creative professionals should work for exposure only. The programme respects and values music as skilled work – not a hobby.
Sonic Boom exists to support original music at the grassroots. SPARK is about giving artists the tools, belief, and platforms they need to move forward, while keeping everything rooted in Burton. We’re building something long-term here, not quick wins. – Chris Baldwin, Director of Sonic Boom Music CIC
Beyond individual development, SPARK is also about confidence – both for the artists involved and for the town of Burton itself. By investing in local talent, Sonic Boom aims to prove the town as a place where music careers begin, grow, and last.
Andrea Caswell, from the Sonic Boom Team, said: “There’s incredible talent here, but too often artists don’t have access to the knowledge or networks to help them progress. SPARK brings those things together in one place, in a way that feels supportive, realistic, and genuinely useful.”
With its pilot artists now selected, SPARK has begun connecting them with live opportunities, tailored development sessions, and wider industry pathways. Looking ahead, Sonic Boom plans to expand the programme’s reach – supporting not just performers, but the wider creative workforce that surrounds them.
By backing grassroots original music, Sonic Boom’s SPARK programme is building the foundations for a stronger, louder, and more confident local music scene in Burton upon Trent – built by the community, for the community.
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