Access All AreasScotland’s dominant live event promoter, DF Concerts has launched The DF Academy to provide young people with a pathway into then industry.
The Live Nation-owned company, which promotes events including the 50,000-capacity TRNSMT Festival (pictured) and Summer Sessions, said the scheme was designed to open career pathways for students looking to build a future in the live events industry, and to help them transition from education into employment.
The DF Academy programme commenced in October with sessions at Glasgow Caledonian University, University of the West of Scotland, Robert Gordon University, and City of Glasgow College. DF Concerts said its team explored how live shows are brought together, discussing the creative, technical, and operational elements that underpin the industry, and highlighting the wide range of career opportunities available to graduates.
New College Lanarkshire and Perth UHI have also joined the programme, and 150 students from six colleges and universities recently took part in behind-the-scenes tours of King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, SWG3, and the OVO Hydro.
“Scotland’s live events industry is full of passionate, dedicated people, and it’s important that we create clear routes for the next generation to join us,” said DF Concerts head of concert operations Andy Dunlop. “The DF Academy is our commitment to opening doors, sharing our expertise, and giving students genuine insight into how this industry works.”
Perth UHI programme leader for BA (Hons) popular music Dr Séan R. McLaughlin said The DF Academy offers its students an opportunity to learn directly from professionals at Scotland’s leading live music promoter: “This partnership represents an exciting step in providing our students with real-world industry experience, meaningful professional connections, and insights into the biggest live events happening across Scotland. I’m delighted to be working with DF Concerts on this initiative and look forward to supporting our students as they develop the skills, confidence, and vision needed to become the next generation of leaders in the music industries.”