we are sound diplomacy

A global music, culture and creative economy consultancy.

We use research and data to demonstrate the economic and social value of the creative industries, and provide strategic planning for cities, places and communities to maximise their impact. Our work unlocks new opportunities, fosters sustainable development and builds more dynamic, inclusive environments.

  • ABBA Voyage

    Projects & Case Studies

    Our Global Impact

    With a network of experts spanning the globe, Sound Diplomacy has advised over 150 clients across 30+ countries. We bridge the gap between policy and practice, partnering with city governments, international NGOs, and private developers to unlock the economic and social potential of the creative sectors.

  • A crowd at an outdoor music event at night, with two protesters nose to nose in front of the stage, one holding a microphone. The crowd is taking photos and videos, and a white circle with blue and black text in the top right corner says 'Sound Diplomacy.' Overlaid text reads 'Trigger Cities: The Data Behind Music's New Centers of Influence'.

    Latest Reports & Insights

    Thought Leadership: Reports & Insights

    We don’t just observe the creative economy; we define it. Our published guides and client reports serve as blueprints for community development and urban resilience. Explore our library of data-driven research and the actionable strategies that have shaped cities worldwide.

  • Sunset over a city skyline with palm trees in the foreground, overlay text reads 'Sound Development'.

    Music Cities Convention: Hull

    The World’s Premier Gathering on Music & Policy

    The Music Cities Convention returns to the UK, landing in the former City of Culture, Hull. Join 400+ global leaders to explore how music integrates into urban planning, licensing, healthcare, and city branding. This is where the world’s most influential music policy solutions are born.

  • Music Cities Convention: Alberta

    Innovation, Workforce & Inclusion

    The 2026 North American edition heads to Alberta, Canada. As the continent’s largest music policy event of the year, we will focus on the transformative power of music in driving job creation and sustainable growth. Featuring dedicated programming on Aboriginal and diverse music ecosystems, this is the frontier of inclusive economic development.

  • Sound Diplomacy Digest

    Insights from the Forefront of Culture

    The Digest is our curated collection of analysis, reflections, and global perspectives. Featuring deep dives from our internal experts alongside guest contributors and industry interviews, we explore the vital intersections where music, culture, and creativity shape the economies of tomorrow.

  • The Sound Diplomacy Team, standing on stage at the Riyadh Music Week event, smiling and posing for a photo in front of a backdrop with event branding.

    Global Team of Experts

    Local Nuance, Global Impact

    We are a multicultural collective of economists, researchers, and urban planners stationed across the UK, Europe, North America, Asia, and Latin America. By combining local nuance with global data, we provide unparalleled expertise in cultural economics, placemaking, and public policy.

 

Our Latest News

Stay up-to-date with the latest news from our team, events, and client success stories from around the world.