Turn It Up is a development opportunity for musicians from Southampton and SO postcodes. Launched in 2024 by University of Southampton music venue, Turner Sims, the inaugural winners of the scheme were folk duo Pegasuses.

Supported by funding from Arts Council England, the programme aims to help local musicians turn up the volume on their creative projects.

Lucy will benefit from industry mentoring, funding, and an appearance on the opening night of Turner Sims’ Summer Festival in June. Lucy will be joined by a five-piece band to perform songs from her forthcoming album, ‘In the Low Light’. Spanning folk, Americana, a little bit of country, and infused with the feel of 70s singer-songwriters, Lucy’s original songs explore concepts of grief and loss. Her exquisite vocals are supported by guitars, double bass and drums, plus pedal steel, piano and Hammond, in a warm and engaging soundworld. Lucy and her band’s performance takes place on Friday 27 June 2025 in a double bill with Shovel Dance Collective.

Lucy said:

‘I knew early last year that I wanted to record an album. Something that represents me, my experiences and where I am at musically now. And now, the music is finished and recorded Turn It Up provides the perfect opportunity to push the project over the finish line in the way I envisage. To be able to do a proper live launch with the band as part of the Turner Sims Summer Festival is incredible.’

Kevin Appleby, Turner Sims, said:

‘Through Turn It Up we are keen to support the ambitious creative plans of local artists. Lucy’s clear vision for her project and performance really stood out for the selection panel. With the platform of the Summer Festival it’s exciting to enable her to bring her distinctive sound and music to her current fanbase and new audiences too.’

Job Opportunity
• Head of Marketing and Sales (Ref. 3033525TW)
• Location: Turner Sims Southampton, SO17 1BJ
• Salary: £45,413 to £48,149
• Closing Date: Tuesday 22 April 2025
• Apply online here

Turner Sims is the University of Southampton’s acclaimed music venue with big ambitions to build an inclusive world through the joy of live music. Having recently launched our rebrand, new website, and celebrated our 50th anniversary last autumn, the postholder will play a major role developing and delivering the next phase of our ambitious marketing and audience development plans, aligned to the University’s strategy: Inspiring the Remarkable.

In our 50-year history, we’re proud to have supported early careers of many great artists. We champion diverse talent and welcome adventurous audiences to discover new music, alongside old favourites. With national partners, we’re creating opportunities for artists and audiences to share the joy of live music in the Hampshire and Solent region.

Through our expanded engagement programme, we’re actively welcoming new audiences who’ve never engaged with us before. And importantly, students and young people are playing a vibrant role in shaping the next 50 years of Turner Sims.

We are proud to be part of the University of Southampton, an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, and contributing to the city and region’s cultural reputation. Our music programme is locally relevant and internationally acclaimed. We want that reputation to continue to flourish.

We believe equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to making the University of Southampton a welcoming, vibrant and successful organisation. Having a diverse workforce, inclusive of people of all ages and beliefs, from different racial, educational and social backgrounds opens up a wealth of possibilities, makes us more creative and accelerates our impact on society. We welcome applicants that value the diversity of our community and are willing to play their part in supporting the mission of inclusivity.

How to apply
Job Description
To apply online visit the University of Southampton’s Job site here 
Closing date: Tuesday 22 April 2025

Find out more
If you want to find out more about the role, there is an informal opportunity to meet online with Louise Coysh, Director and Sarah Robertson, Co-Chair, Strategic Board, Turner Sims on Monday 31st March: 2-3pm, Wednesday 2nd April: 4-5pm and Friday 4th April: 2-3pm. Please email arts@soton.ac.uk to request a 10-minute time slot.

Are you a local music artist or band based in Southampton?

We’re inviting applications from both emerging and established acts and artists to perform on our outdoor stage. Whether you’re a solo artist, duo, full band or group. We welcome a diverse mix of genres – including jazz, folk, indie, soul, classical crossover, and more! The key is great live energy and a sound that fits an outdoor festival vibe.

This opportunity is open to both amateur and professional musicians. If you’re passionate about performing live and ready to bring your music to new audiences, we’d love to hear from you!

Each act will be given a dedicated time slot on our outdoor stage, creating a dynamic and engaging lineup of talent.

What will Turner Sims provide?

• This is a paid opportunity. All selected performers will receive a performance fee, with details provided upon booking
• Full technical support, including PA system and on-site sound engineers
• Marketing and promotion, with featured artist profiles across our website, social media, and festival materials
• A vibrant festival atmosphere with an engaged audience, providing excellent exposure for your music

What will performers need to provide?

• Your own instruments and any specialist equipment beyond our standard festival backline
• Transport and accommodation costs (unfortunately we are unable to provide these)
• A professional attitude and enthusiasm for making this festival a success!

How to get involved

Apply now and be part of a summer of live music at Turner Sims! Please complete this application form by 24 March.
Send in your application even if you’re less experienced! We are open to anyone from bands to dance to experimental performances. Our audience loves innovation, and we want to encourage the Southampton scene to flourish.

If you have questions before you apply please contact info@turnersims.co.uk / 023 8059 5151

If you would like to apply in a non-written format (for example voice recording or video) please email info@turnersims.co.uk or phone 023 8059 5151.

Do you have a project idea you want to develop and present to new audiences live? Are you ready to develop your craft and boost your professional career? We will help you develop your project and provide a national platform for you to perform it.

Our 10 recruits will form The Vibe Collective. This group will work with industry professionals to plan and present gigs and events for young people at Turner Sims, the music venue at University of Southampton. We are looking for people with a range of musical tastes who are passionate about the music scene in Southampton. You’ll gain incredible experience of working in the music industry along the way.