Sound Roots

Sound Roots helps the independent music sector to thrive and grow, we have a specialism in the folk, roots and acoustic music genres. We are the Arts Council of England’s leading organisation for providing career pathways into the folk, roots and acoustic music commercial industries. We build audiences, we advise on policy, we support talent from diverse backgrounds, and we create pathways to a more diverse workforce. 

We are a PRS Foundation Talent Development Network Partner supported by PPL, a Greater Manchester Combined Authority Cultural Partner and an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation. 

Established in 2012 as English Folk Expo, we became a company in 2015 and registered as a charity in 2020. 

‘The primary free pathway for people building careers in the music industry’ - Music Industry Pro 

Over the next 3 years we will reach 30,000 audiences annually, resourcing more than 200 global music industry professionals, and working directly with over 150 freelancers and musicians. 

We are proud members of the Greater Manchester Music Commission, Manchester Music City Steering Group and Rochdale Borough Culture Network. 

Our annual music showcase, English Folk Expo, is the country’s biggest conference of the folk music scene, connecting 200 industry specialists from 20+ countries who bring an estimated £10m market value.

Manchester Folk Festival is a global music event that generates 3,000 audiences and £1.3m visitor spend. Beyond the festival, we present folk music concerts across Greater Manchester throughout the year. 

Our Artist Mentoring Pathway and online learning platforms have supported hundreds of people to build sustainable music careers.  

We devised and commission the UK Official Folk Albums Chart which is published each month. 

We are a registered charity (#1192064) based in Rochdale, Greater Manchester.

Business Hours

• Monday: 9am - 5pm
• Tuesday: 9am - 5pm
• Wednesday: 9am - 5pm
• Thursday: 9am - 5pm
• Friday: 9am - 5pm
• Saturday: Closed
• Sunday: Closed