About Company
Oh Yeah Music Centre is a vibrant, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the development and support of music in Northern Ireland. Founded in 2007, our mission is to stimulate and grow the music industry in Belfast and beyond, providing a hub for musicians, artists, and music enthusiasts. We offer rehearsal facilities, professional development programmes, community engagement initiatives, and host numerous events aimed at nurturing local talent and fostering a thriving music scene. While not a traditional commercial record label, Oh Yeah Music Centre acts as a crucial incubator and launchpad for emerging artists. We believe in providing the resources and guidance necessary for artists to flourish, connect with industry professionals, and achieve their full potential. This role is integral to our vision of discovering the next wave of talent and helping them navigate their journey within the music landscape.
Job Description
Are you a passionate music enthusiast with an exceptional ear for groundbreaking talent? Do you thrive on discovering new artists, understanding their creative vision, and helping them shape their careers? Oh Yeah Music Centre is seeking a dynamic and highly motivated A&R Representative to join our dedicated team in South Belfast. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth and evolution of Northern Ireland’s music scene, working within an organisation committed to artist development rather than purely commercial returns.
As an A&R Representative, you will be at the forefront of identifying, nurturing, and advocating for emerging musical talent across diverse genres. You will spend your time immersing yourself in the local music landscape – attending gigs, scouring online platforms, and building invaluable relationships within the artistic community. Your core responsibility will be to scout potential artists, assess their creative potential, and guide them through developmental stages, from demo selection to performance coaching. This role demands not only a keen musical sensibility but also strong interpersonal skills, a strategic mind for artist development, and a comprehensive understanding of the modern music industry. You will be instrumental in helping artists refine their sound, develop their brand, and connect with opportunities that further their careers, acting as a bridge between raw talent and the wider industry ecosystem. If you are driven by a genuine love for music and a desire to make a tangible impact on artists’ lives, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Actively scout and identify promising new artists and bands across various genres within Northern Ireland.
- Attend live performances, showcases, and open mic nights regularly to discover new talent.
- Review and evaluate demos, online submissions, and artist portfolios, providing constructive feedback.
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with artists, managers, producers, and other industry professionals.
- Provide creative direction and support to artists, helping them refine their sound, songwriting, and artistic vision.
- Coordinate recording sessions, demo production, and project timelines where applicable, in collaboration with artists and internal teams.
- Monitor music trends, industry developments, and competitor activities to inform talent scouting strategies.
- Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to develop artist profiles and promotional materials.
- Represent Oh Yeah Music Centre at industry events, festivals, and conferences.
- Assist artists in understanding licensing, publishing, and other critical aspects of the music business.
Required Skills
- Demonstrable passion and comprehensive knowledge of contemporary music across various genres.
- Exceptional ear for identifying raw talent and an understanding of artistic potential.
- Proven ability to network and build strong professional relationships within the music industry.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Understanding of artist development processes and music production workflows.
- Proficiency in digital music platforms and social media for talent discovery and promotion.
Preferred Qualifications
- A degree or relevant qualification in Music Business, Music Production, Arts Management, or a related field.
- Previous experience (internship or paid) in an A&R, artist management, music curation, or talent scouting role.
- Familiarity with the Northern Irish music scene and local venues.
- Experience with music industry software or databases.
- Knowledge of copyright, licensing, and publishing in the music industry.
Perks & Benefits
- Opportunity to make a significant impact on the local music industry and artist careers.
- Dynamic and creative working environment at the heart of Belfast's music scene.
- Extensive networking opportunities with artists and industry professionals.
- Access to live music events and performances.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- A supportive and collaborative team culture.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their comprehensive CV along with a cover letter detailing their passion for music, relevant experience, and what makes them an ideal fit for this unique A&R role at Oh Yeah Music Centre. Please ensure your cover letter highlights your ability to identify and nurture emerging talent within the Northern Irish music scene. Click on the link below to apply for the job.