LGMF - Artists' Development Program

On March 1st, Liverpool Lighthouse hosted a workshop for up-and-coming gospel artists, providing them with invaluable guidance on advancing their careers. This free-to-attend event was part of Liverpool Lighthouse’s ongoing mission to nurture and uplift emerging talent within the gospel music scene. With the Gospel Music Festival returning on May 4th 2025, the workshop aimed to equip artists with the skills, knowledge, and industry connections needed to seize new opportunities. Judges and presenters Anu Omideyi, Ayce Oyerinde, Becky Ayres, Wizdom Layne, and Karen Gibson shared their experiences and advice, offering insights into both the challenges and successes of building a career in gospel music.

The day kicked off with interactive presentations from renowned gospel artists Anu, Ayce, and Wizdom, who covered essential aspects of a music career. They explored key considerations such as budgeting, stage planning, working with production teams and promoters, and the importance of rehearsals.

Becky Ayres, Managing Director of Sound City—Liverpool’s leading independent music festival and conference—introduced artists to opportunities within the festival. Sound City provides a platform for emerging talent, giving artists the chance to showcase their work and connect with industry professionals. During her presentation, she also highlighted Sound City’s growing commitment to featuring gospel music, opening doors for gospel artists to reach new audiences.

Each presentation was designed to be interactive, ensuring the speakers could understand where each artist was in their journey. However, the artists truly had their moment to shine during the Q&A and showcase session. The Q&A allowed them to ask in-depth questions about branding, building a loyal audience, and breaking into the industry—particularly as newcomers or international artists.

The showcase was a highlight of the event, featuring a diverse range of performers. Some were dedicated to church singing, while others aspired to mainstream success. There was also a mix of performance styles—instrumentalists, a cappella singers, original songwriters, and those performing covers. Regardless of their background, each artist demonstrated remarkable talent and potential. Karen Gibson, a long-time choir director who performed at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, joined Anu, Ayce, and Wizdom on the judging panel. Together, they provided tailored feedback on everything from vocal technique and song arrangement to stage presence and confidence.

A key part of the workshop was the personal connection formed between the judges and the artists. Rather than just offering general advice, the judges took time to understand each performer’s style, strengths, and aspirations before guiding them on their next steps. Whether it was refining an original song, adjusting a self-made backing track, or developing stage confidence, every artist left with actionable insights to enhance their craft.

This workshop – and a further session held in Birmingham on 5th April – was just a glimpse into the incredible talent within the gospel music scene, and the journey doesn’t stop here!

Liverpool Lighthouse’s Gospel Music Festival, taking place on Sunday, May 4th 2025, will be a powerful celebration of gospel music and its cultural significance.

The festival will take place at Liverpool, with an afternoon session at 3pmand an evening session commencing at 7pm. The lineup includes the legendary London Community Gospel Choir, Michelle John, Volney Morgan & New Ye, Triple O, and Lighthouse Choir, and many more.

Don’t miss out! Get your tickets here for Liverpool Gospel Music Festival 2025.