Topics include activism on stage, corporatization of the music sector, music export and exchange
ESNS (Eurosonic Noorderslag) announces a new wave of conference highlights for its 40th edition, taking place from January 14 to 17, 2026 in Groningen. None other than music agent and co-head of Global Touring at CAA, Emma Banks, producer Craig Leon, Sziget festival director Tamás Kádár and the Director-General of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), Noel Curran, are attending Europe’s largest music conference.
One hour with Emma Banks
Journalist Lisa Henderson (IQ) invites music agent and Co-Head of Global Touring at Creative Artists Agency (CAA) Emma Banks to the stage for an in-depth keynote conversation about her career, the music industry and the future of live music. Banks is one of the most influential figures in the global live music business. From her early days in London’s agency scene to leading one of the world’s most powerful touring divisions, she is shaping the touring landscape for some of the world’s biggest artists like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Katy Perry, Paramore and Florence & The Machine (to name but a few!).
From Ramones to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Producer, composer, and arranger Craig Leon comes to ESNS to reflect on his groundbreaking work as a producer for acts like the Ramones. Leon played a pivotal role in shaping the sound and success of artists such as Talking Heads, Blondie, Richard Hell, and Suicide. Exactly fifty years ago, he produced the self-titled debut of the Ramones—a record that would forever redefine the landscape of punk music both in the US and Europe. Expect rare insights into the making of that seminal album, interwoven with behind-the-scenes stories and vivid anecdotes. A masterclass not to be missed.
Sziget, a new chapter
Director of Sziget Festival Tamás Kádár will be attending the ESNS Conference to talk about the growing influence of large ownership structures across the festival scene. Private equity firms, corporate takeovers and big investment groups are increasingly shaping the future of live music. We’ve all heard the stories: artists refusing to play, the unease surrounding companies like KKR and festivals like Sziget forced to quit after acquisition when profit is not high enough. However Kádár is hopeful: “we are fighting for a new chapter of Sziget returning to its independent roots”.
When activism meets polarisation
Activism in music has taken centre stage over the past year and it’s a key theme at the conference in 2026. As the leading expert on polarisation, Bart Brandsma (Inside Polarisation), will explore the correlation between activism and “us versus them” thinking. Understanding these dynamics and the role that activism plays in today’s cultural landscape can lead to more thoughtful conversations and choices about how actively you want to engage.
Director-general of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), Noel Curran will explore the future of public service media and cross-border collaboration in Europe. With a distinguished career spanning leadership roles at Ireland’s national broadcaster RTÉ and an award-winning background in investigative journalism, Curran brings a unique perspective on how media can serve the public good in a rapidly changing landscape.
House of Europe
Located at the heart of the ESNS Conference, House of Europe is the place where different cultures meet and collaborate. European music export offices will bring flavour to the programming, showcasing the best from their regions — from local talent to culinary delights and cultural traditions. European Music Exporters Exchange (EMEE) hosts a session about building bridges through music export and exchange, invitation only.
German Music Export by Initiative Musik invites ESNS delegates to test their knowledge of music “made in Germany”. Meet the German artists performing at ESNS 2026 in short live spotlight sessions, fun interviews, and entertaining quiz rounds. Conference attendees will also discover the new Catalan music scene while sipping on a 30′ Cocktail and enjoying Iberian ham, hosted by Catalan Arts and iCat and experience Italy like never before, with Don Pasta’s Food Sound System – Vinyl and Cuisine, presented by Italian Trade Agency, Puglia Sounds, Emilia-Romagna Music Export, Assomusica, Sicily Music Conference and Italian World Music Network.
Bulgarian Music Association, EU NextGeneration and Recovery and Resilience Plan Bulgaria will also bring together artists, managers, festivals, and industry representatives to connect, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities. After the networking reception, prepare for something that can make some of you laugh, but many to cry; the Bulgarian pepper.
Other featured speakers confirmed for ESNS 2026 include:
Bas Dokter (Agents After All), Barbara Vos (Barbara Vos), Bas van Wageningen (bassist DI-RECT), Ben Wynter (Unstoppable Music, Power Up), Brij Gosai (Pollstar), Canan Yurdakul (EBB Music), Claire O’Neill (A Greener Future), Dorian Perron (Groover), Dr Charisse Beaumont (Black Lives in Music), Dylan Heneck (SubmitHub), Eric Skunck (YouTube), Ernst-Jan Pfauth (journalist, schrijver & media pionier), Froukje (artist), Kevin Cole (KEXP), Koos Zwaan (Inholland University of Applied Sciences), Lesley Grieten (Concert at SEA), Ognjen Tomašević (EXIT Festival), Paulina Parvanov (Austrian Music Export), Peter Verkennis (Stichting Bospop), Roisin O’Connor (The Independent), Ruth Barlow (Beggars Group), Saskhia Menendez (Sassy Records LTD), Tim van der Zalm (Labeltje Labeltje), Tirsa Creusen (Pinkpop), Vasil Gjuroski (Tromsø World).
ESNS26 Tickets
Delegate Passes for ESNS26 are now available at a Late rate at ESNS.nl – Rates will go up soon. Purchase a Delegate Pass
ESNS Delegate Passes include:
-Fast-lane access to 250+ showcases
-Full access to the ESNS Conference
-Networking lounges and hospitality options
-Access the ESNS Delegates Database
-Access ESNS Analytics for up-to-date artist data
About ESNS
ESNS is Europe’s leading platform showcasing emerging European music talent. Every January, Groningen (NL) hosts the ESNS festival and conference, connecting fresh artists with fans and industry professionals.
Year-round, ESNS supports new talent through initiatives like the European Talent Exchange and presents major awards including the Music Moves Europe Awards, the European Festival Awards, and the Dutch Popprijs. It partners with key projects and alliances such as Yourope, EBU and Green Deal Circular Festivals to foster a diverse, sustainable music scene.
Since 1986, ESNS has helped launch careers of artists like AURORA, Stromae, Christine and the Queens, Fontaines D.C., Altin Gün, The Haunted Youth, girl in red, Lykke Li, Joost, The XX, Robyn, Tramhaus, Hozier, Zaho de Sagazan, Judeline, Luvcat, Boko Yout, Kingfishr, Sylvie Kreusch and Arp Frique & The Perpetual Singers.
Contact:
For more info contact: nikki@globalpublicity.co.uk