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Writer's pictureMatt Errington

Internships in the UK's Music Industry: How They Work and Where to Find Them

An internship can be a crucial stepping stone for gaining practical experience and developing important connections if you're trying to break into the music business. The UK's thriving music scene presents a plethora of opportunities for ambitious people looking for internships in a range of industry sectors. This blog post will explain how internships in the UK's music industry operate and offer advice on how to locate them.


Internships in the UK's Music Industry: How They Work and Where to Find Them

Understanding Internships in the Music Industry

Working with a business or organisation in areas like record labels, music management, live events, music publishing, PR, and marketing are typical tasks associated with music industry internships. Internships can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, be full-time or part-time, paid or unpaid.


Benefits from Taking an Internship

Interning in the music business can benefit you in the following ways:

  • Obtain real-world, useful experience

  • Develop knowledge and skills pertaining to your industry

  • Establish a business network

  • Include relevant work experience in your resume

  • Find potential career paths in the music business

Finding Music Industry Internships in the UK

You can use the following resources to find internships in the UK music industry:

  • The Unsigned Guide, Music Jobs UK, and Music Week

  • Websites of record labels, management firms, and other organisations

  • College and university career services

  • Channels on social media and sector-specific LinkedIn groups

  • Industry conferences and social gatherings

Getting Your Application Ready

When submitting an internship application, be sure to:

  • Make your resume and cover letter specific to the internship and business

  • Highlight your expertise, background, and enthusiasm for the music business

  • Do some research on the business and show that you are familiar with its operations

  • Give examples of any music-related endeavours or activities in which you have participated

Legal Aspects of Internships in the United Kingdom

In accordance with UK employment law, internships must pay at least the National Minimum Wage unless they are a required component of an accredited educational programme, volunteer work for a nonprofit organisation, or work shadowing. Before accepting an offer, make sure you are aware of your rights and the details of the internship.


Making the Most of Your Internship

To maximise your internship in the music business:

  • Take initiative and a proactive approach to your work

  • Connect with coworkers and other business professionals

  • Ask for input and take notes on your experiences

  • Keep track of your successes and accomplishments throughout the internship


Getting a Full-Time Job Out of Your Internship

Even though there is no assurance that an internship will result in a full-time position, there are ways to improve your chances.

  • Proving your dedication, competence, and value to the business

  • Having a 'can-do' attitude and demonstrating your own ideas and initiative

  • Fostering strong connections with your coworkers and superiors

  • Keeping up with employment opportunities within the business and sector

Internships in the UK's music industry are a great way to gain knowledge, hone your craft, and form relationships that will help you advance your career. You can build a solid foundation for a future in the music industry by carefully investigating the available internships, creating a tailored application, and making the most of your internship experience.


Be sure to check out our other related blog posts that can support you in writing your CV, applying and even how to master the interview process.

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