London’s film and music scenes are continuing to grow. In 2023, the UK’s music industry contributed a record £7.6 billion to the economy, with London leading the live music sector, accounting for nearly 31% of the £6.1 billion impact. On the film side, the UK saw a production spend of £4.23 billion in 2023, highlighting London’s role as a key player in global entertainment.
The Best Film and Music Events in London
These numbers show that London is a great place to meet others in film and music. But with so many events, finding the right ones can be hard. It is easy to procrastinate when you need to take action.
That’s why we will start with an instant, quick fix to your networking needs: the top ten events for both film and music. So you can get started with networking right now, today.
The Top 10 Film Networking Events in London
- Boozin’ N Schmoozin’ Networking for Independent Filmmakers
- Description: A monthly meetup organized by Raindance for indie filmmakers and film enthusiasts. It’s an ideal place to find collaborators for your next project or discuss your favourite films.
- What to Expect: Casual conversations, idea sharing, and opportunities to build connections.
- Location: Zoo Bar & Club, 13-17 Bear Street, London WC2H 7AQ.
- Schedule: Monthly; check their website for upcoming dates.
- Explore more
- London Film Network
- Description: A Meetup group that supports filmmakers in London through events like workshops and discussions.
- What to Expect: Learning from experts and meeting fellow filmmakers.
- Location: Various venues across London.
- Schedule: Regular events; visit their Meetup page for details.
- Explore more
- Cine Circle Filmmaker Networking
- Description: An event connecting indie filmmakers, offering courses and talks to help them advance their careers.
- What to Expect: Networking opportunities, educational sessions, and project support.
- Location: Strongroom Bar, EC2A 3SQ.
- Schedule: Check their website for upcoming events.
- Explore more
- BFI NETWORK Events
- Description: The BFI NETWORK hosts events throughout the year, including masterclasses and industry talks.
- What to Expect: Insights from industry professionals and chances to meet peers.
- Location: BFI Southbank and other venues.
- Schedule: Events are listed on their website.
- Explore more
- London Screenwriters’ Festival
- Description: An annual festival for writers and filmmakers, offering workshops, seminars, and pitching opportunities.
- What to Expect: Learning from experienced writers and networking with industry professionals.
- Location: Regent’s University, London.
- Schedule: Held annually; dates are on their website.
- Explore more
- FOCUS London
- Description: A trade event for those involved in creating and promoting on-screen entertainment.
- What to Expect: Networking with professionals from various sectors of the film industry.
- Location: Business Design Centre, London.
- Schedule: Annual event; check their website for dates.
- Explore more
- Shooting People Events Calendar
- Description: A platform listing various indie filmmaking events, from festivals to workshops.
- What to Expect: A variety of events to choose from, catering to different interests.
- Location: Various venues in London.
- Schedule: Ongoing; check their events calendar.
- Explore more
- London Filmmaking Network
- Description: A Facebook group for London filmmakers to network and find work opportunities.
- What to Expect: Online discussions and announcements about meetups.
- Location: Online and various meetup spots.
- Schedule: Bimonthly meetups; details are posted in the group.
- Explore more
- Film and TV Networking Party
- Description: An event for professionals in the film and TV industry to meet and network.
- What to Expect: A relaxed environment to discuss projects and make connections.
- Location: Bar Soho, London.
- Schedule: Check Eventbrite for upcoming dates.
- Explore more
- BFI Film Academy Networking Drinks
- Description: An event supported by Netflix, aimed at aspiring screen creatives.
whatson.bfi.org.uk - What to Expect: Networking with fellow creatives and industry professionals.
- Location: BFI Southbank, Blue Room.
- Schedule: Check the BFI website for future events.
- Explore more
Ready to make an impression? Don’t leave connections to chance. After all, networking is about being remembered. 👉 Create your free Profyle Digital Business Card here and make sharing your details simple, fast, and unforgettable.
The Top 10 Music Networking Events in London
London is a city built on music. Every street, venue, and underground station carries the sounds of artists chasing their dreams. The city draws nearly 7 million people every year who come to experience its live music scene, from small basement gigs to massive arena shows
- London Music Industry Meetup
- What It’s About: A regular gathering for music professionals, including managers, producers, marketers, and artists, to explore new technologies and business opportunities.
- What to Expect: Informal discussions, guest speakers, and opportunities to connect with a diverse group of industry professionals.
- Where & When: Various venues across London; check their Meetup page for upcoming events.
- Explore more
Tip: Bring a digital business card to share your contact details easily.
- Ditto X: Meet The Music Industry
- What It’s About: An annual conference hosted by Ditto Music, offering networking opportunities, expert panels, and discussions on building a successful music career.
- What to Expect: Insights from industry leaders, feedback sessions, and chances to connect with professionals from various sectors of the music business.
- Where & When: Indigo at The O2, London; held in November. Visit the Ditto X website for details.
- Explore more
Tip: Prepare questions in advance to engage with speakers and attendees.
- The SAFO Music Group Networking Evening
- What It’s About: Monthly networking events hosted by SAFO Music Group, providing opportunities for artists and music industry professionals to build their network and gain industry advice.
- What to Expect: Informal gatherings focused on sharing experiences, discussing projects, and learning from industry peers.
- Where & When: SAFO Music Group, London; first Monday of every month.
- Explore more
Tip: Be ready to discuss your current projects and seek feedback.
- Music Ally Connect
- What It’s About: An annual international music business conference focusing on the latest developments in the music industry.
- What to Expect: Panels, workshops, and networking sessions with industry experts discussing current trends and future opportunities.
- Where & When: London; held in January.
- Explore more
Tip: Stay updated on industry trends to engage in meaningful discussions.
- AIM Indie-Con
- What It’s About: An annual conference organized by the Association of Independent Music (AIM), focusing on the independent music sector.
- What to Expect: Insights into the independent music scene, networking opportunities with label owners, artists, and industry professionals.
- Where & When: London; dates vary. Explore more
Tip: Network with a variety of professionals to gain diverse perspectives.
- Open Mic UK
- What It’s About: A live music competition for singers, vocalists, and solo artists, offering opportunities to perform and connect with industry professionals.
- What to Expect: Live performances, feedback from judges, and chances to meet other artists and industry insiders.
- Where & When: Various locations across the UK, including London. Explore more
Tip: Use this platform to showcase your talent and receive constructive feedback.
- Defected Records Events
- What It’s About: Regular events hosted by Defected Records, featuring performances by various artists and DJs.
- What to Expect: Live music, DJ sets, and opportunities to network with music enthusiasts and professionals.
- Where & When: Venues like Studio 338, Ministry of Sound, and Printworks in London.
- Explore more
Tip: Engage with attendees to expand your network within the music community.
- Music Producers Guild (MPG) Events
- What It’s About: Events organized by the MPG, offering networking opportunities for music producers, engineers, and recording professionals.
- What to Expect: Panel discussions, workshops, and social gatherings focused on music production.
- Where & When: Various locations in London.
- Explore more
Tip: Connect with fellow producers and engineers to share knowledge and experiences.
- Music Managers Forum (MMF) Events
- What It’s About: Events hosted by the MMF, providing networking and educational opportunities for music managers and self-managed artists.
- What to Expect: Seminars, workshops, and networking sessions covering various aspects of music management.
- Where & When: London; visit the MMF website for event details.
- Explore more
Tip: Learn from experienced managers and expand your professional network.
- Women in Music UK Events
- What It’s About: Networking events aimed at supporting and empowering women in the music industry.
- What to Expect: Panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities focused on career development and industry challenges.
- Where & When: Various venues in London; check the Women in Music UK website for upcoming events.
- Explore more
The Best of the Rest
There are plenty of more great film and music networking events in London. Which makes it a lot easier to for you to find the right people you need to know in your industry.
11 More Music Networking Events in London
- Music Producers Guild (MPG) Masterclasses
- What It’s About: The MPG hosts masterclasses aimed at music producers and engineers, offering insights into the latest production techniques and industry trends.
- What to Expect: Hands-on workshops, Q&A sessions with experienced producers, and opportunities to network with peers in the production community.
- Where & When: Various locations in London.
- Explore more
Tip: As a member, take advantage of these events to showcase your work and collaborate with others in the industry.
- Music Managers Forum (MMF) Training Workshops
- What It’s About: The MMF offers training workshops covering various aspects of music management, providing valuable knowledge for both new and experienced managers.
- What to Expect: Sessions on topics like artist development, revenue streams, and digital marketing, along with networking opportunities with fellow managers.
- Where & When: Locations across London; visit the MMF events page for details.
- Explore more
Tip: Prepare questions related to your management challenges to discuss with experts.
- Music Tech Fest (MTF) Labs
- What It’s About: MTF Labs brings together artists, technologists, and industry professionals to explore the intersection of music and technology.
- What to Expect: Collaborative workshops, hackathons, and showcases of innovative music technologies.
- Where & When: Various locations.
- Explore more
Tip: Be open to experimenting with new technologies and collaborating with participants from diverse backgrounds.
- Loud LDN Meetups
- What It’s About: Loud LDN is a collective of women and non-binary musicians hosting regular meetups to foster community and collaboration.
- What to Expect: Informal gatherings, performance opportunities, and discussions aimed at supporting underrepresented groups in the music industry.
- Where & When: Various venues in London.
- Explore more
Tip: Attend with an open mind and be ready to support fellow musicians.
- Wired4Music Creative Sessions
- What It’s About: A network for Londoners aged 16-25, Wired4Music offers creative sessions to help young musicians develop their skills and connect with peers.
- What to Expect: Workshops, mentoring, and performance opportunities tailored to emerging artists.
- Where & When: Locations across London.
- Explore more
Tip: Take advantage of mentoring opportunities to gain insights from industry professionals.
- PRS for Music Member Events
- What It’s About: PRS for Music hosts various events designed to promote members’ musical talent and build relationships across the music industry.
- What to Expect: Networking sessions, exclusive live music showcases, and opportunities to connect with fellow songwriters, composers, and industry professionals.
- Where & When: Various locations across London.
- Explore more
- Music Ally Sandbox Summit
- What It’s About: Organized by Music Ally, the Sandbox Summit focuses on digital marketing and innovation in the music industry.
- What to Expect: Panels, case studies, and networking sessions with leaders in music marketing and technology.
- Where & When: London; visit the Music Ally website for event details.
Tip: Stay updated on the latest digital marketing trends to engage in meaningful discussions.
- The Ultimate Seminar
- What It’s About: A free annual seminar offering insights into the music industry, featuring panels with top executives and artists.
- What to Expect: Discussions on various industry topics, networking opportunities, and advice from successful professionals.
- Where & When: University of Westminster, London; typically held in November.
- Explore more
Tip: Arrive early to secure a seat and prepare questions for the Q&A sessions.
- Notting Hill Music Networking Events
- What It’s About: Hosted by Notting Hill Music, these events are designed to connect songwriters, producers, and industry professionals.
- What to Expect: Opportunities to pitch songs, collaborate with peers, and receive feedback from industry veterans.
- Where & When: Various venues in London.
- Explore more
Tip: Bring demos of your work to share with potential collaborators.
- Tileyard Education Industry Sessions
- What It’s About: Tileyard Education hosts industry sessions featuring guest speakers from various sectors of the music business.
- What to Expect: Lectures, Q&A sessions, and networking opportunities with professionals in music production, management, and more.
- Where & When: Tileyard Studios, London;
- Explore more
Tip: Take notes during sessions and connect with speakers afterward for further insights.
- Production Futures ON TOUR
- What It’s About: A free event promoting employability and networking in the live events and production industry, offering hands-on workshops and panel discussions.
Eventbrite - What to Expect: Engage in workshops on lighting programming, audio engineering, music production, and more, with opportunities to connect with industry professionals.
- Where & When: Roundhouse, London; scheduled for 4 March in 2025.
- Explore more
Tip: Bring copies of your CV and be prepared to discuss your career interests with industry experts.
11 More Film Networking Events in London
- BFI London Film Festival: Industry Forum
- What It’s About: The Industry Forum is part of the BFI London Film Festival, offering a platform for film professionals to engage in discussions, attend workshops, and network with peers.
- What to Expect: Press and industry screenings, talks, and networking activities designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among film professionals.
- Where & When: Held annually during the BFI London Film Festival in October.
- Explore more
Tip: Apply for an industry pass in advance to access exclusive events and screenings.
- Film and TV Charity: Industry Opportunities and Events
- What It’s About: The Film and TV Charity compiles a list of current opportunities, schemes, and networking events across the industry to support professionals in their career development.
- What to Expect: A regularly updated list of events, workshops, and networking opportunities tailored to various roles within the film and TV sectors.
- Where & When: Various locations and dates.
- Explore more
Tip: Subscribe to their newsletter to stay informed about upcoming events and opportunities.
- The Smalls Film Festival
- What It’s About: An independent film festival showcasing short films, with a program of screenings, talks, panels, discussions, and workshops.
- What to Expect: A platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work, learn from industry experts, and network with peers.
- Where & When: Various venues in London; dates vary.
- Explore more
Tip: Submit your short films for consideration and attend events to connect with other filmmakers.
- Film Industry Networking Night
- What It’s About: An event designed to connect individuals working across all areas of the film industry, from pre-production to post-production.
- What to Expect: Informal networking sessions, opportunities to discuss current projects, and the chance to meet potential collaborators in a relaxed setting.
- Where & When: Locations vary;
- Explore more
Tip: Bring a digital business card and be ready to share your recent work or portfolio with it.
- Creative Industry Speed Networking
- What It’s About: A fast-paced networking event aimed at professionals in the creative industries, including film, television, and digital media.
- What to Expect: Structured networking sessions that allow participants to meet a large number of industry peers in a short amount of time.
- Where & When: Various locations in London.
- Explore more
Tip: Prepare a concise introduction about yourself and your work to make a memorable impression during brief interactions.
- Film Fatales London Meetups
- What It’s About: A community of women and non-binary filmmakers that supports the creation of more films by and about women.
- What to Expect: Monthly meetings to share resources, discuss projects, and provide mentorship, fostering a supportive network for underrepresented filmmakers.
- Where & When: Meetings are held monthly at various locations; visit the Film Fatales website for details.
- Explore more
Tip: Be prepared to discuss your current projects and how you can support fellow filmmakers in their endeavors.
- BAFTA Guru Live
- What It’s About: An event by BAFTA offering career starters insights into the film, games, and television industries through masterclasses, panels, and networking opportunities.
- What to Expect: Sessions with BAFTA winners and nominees, covering various aspects of the industry, along with opportunities to connect with peers and professionals.
- Where & When: Typically held annually in London; visit the BAFTA Guru Live website for upcoming dates and ticket information.
- Explore more
Tip: Take advantage of the Q&A sessions to ask specific questions that can help advance your career.
- Doc Society’s Good Pitch Local
- What It’s About: An event that connects filmmakers with foundations, NGOs, and social entrepreneurs to forge partnerships and create impactful documentaries.
- What to Expect: Opportunities to pitch documentary ideas, receive feedback, and network with potential collaborators and supporters.
- Where & When: Events are held periodically; visit the Doc Society website for upcoming dates and application details.
- Explore more
Tip: Develop a clear and compelling pitch that outlines the social impact of your documentary project.
- London Post-Production Community Meetups
- What It’s About: Groups dedicated to professionals working in post-production, including editors, colorists, and sound designers.
- What to Expect: Regular meetups to discuss the latest tools, techniques, and industry trends, as well as opportunities to network with fellow post-production professionals.
- Where & When: Various venues in London.
- Explore more
Tip: Stay updated on the latest software and technologies to engage in meaningful discussions.
Bonus: 11 Keys to success in London’s film and music industries
Building a successful career in London’s film industry means making real connections. Sooner or later, you have to go to events that can lead to new projects and opportunities.
But just showing up isn’t enough. To make the most of these events, you need a plan. Here’s how to approach networking events so you walk away with more than just small talk.
Be Genuine
When you meet someone, show real interest in them. Ask about their work and listen carefully. People appreciate sincerity and are more likely to remember you.
Know Your Goals
Before attending an event, think about what you want to achieve. Are you looking for a mentor, a collaborator, or simply to learn more about the industry? Having clear goals will guide your conversations.
Practice Your Introduction
Prepare a short and clear introduction about yourself. This will help others understand who you are and what you do. Keep it simple and to the point.
Attend the Right Events
Go to film and music festivals, workshops, and talks where industry professionals gather. These are great places to meet people and learn about new opportunities.
Use Online Platforms
Join online groups related to filmmaking. Participate in discussions and share your work. This can help you connect with others who share your interests.
Follow Up
After meeting someone, send a friendly message to thank them for the conversation. This shows that you value the connection and keeps the relationship alive.
By following these steps, you can build a strong network in London’s film industry. Remember, it’s about quality, not quantity. Focus on forming meaningful relationships that can help you grow in your career.
Ready to make sharing your contact details easier? Create your free Profyle Digital Business Card today.
Act Like You Paid for It
When people attend free events, they often treat them casually. Don’t. Approach free events with the same focus you’d bring to a big, expensive industry conference. Prepare what you’re going to say, set goals, and be ready to meet people who can make a real difference in your career.
Not every great connection comes with a ticket price. Some of the most valuable conversations in the film and music industries happen in spaces where all you need is to show up, be open, and start talking.
Prepare a Conversation Starter
Events attract diverse crowds. Some are seasoned pros; others are just starting out. Instead of asking, “What do you do?” (which can feel repetitive), try:
- “What projects are you working on right now?”
- “What inspired you to get into film?”
These questions spark more interesting conversations.
Bring Something to Share
This doesn’t mean handing out paper business cards that people lose. Use a Profyle Digital Business Card. It’s quick to share, easy to update, and makes you stand out. You can create your free card here.
Don’t Just Stick With Who You Know
It’s easy to stay in your comfort zone, but networking is about new connections. If you attend with a friend, split up for part of the event. Challenge yourself to meet at least three new people.
Follow Up Quickly
After the event, send a short message to the people you met. Reference something specific from your conversation to make it personal. It’s simple, but most people don’t do it—and that’s how you stand out.
5 Key Traits for Succeeding in the Film and Music Industry
Succeeding in the film industry requires more than technical or networking skills; it demands specific traits and attitudes that set individuals apart. Here are key qualities that foster success in this field:
- Reliability
Being dependable is crucial. Consistently meeting deadlines and fulfilling commitments builds trust among peers and superiors. As noted by industry professionals, reliability is a top quality observed in successful individuals.
- Adaptability
The film industry is dynamic, with frequent changes in schedules and project scopes. Being flexible and open to change allows professionals to navigate these shifts effectively. Adaptability is essential for thriving in various roles and environments.
- Strong Work Ethic
Dedication and a willingness to put in the necessary effort are vital. The industry often demands long hours and perseverance. A strong work ethic guarantees that individuals remain committed to their projects and responsibilities.
- Effective Communication
Clear and concise communication fosters collaboration and ensures that ideas are understood. Whether conveying a vision to a team or discussing project details, effective communication is key.
- Emotional Intelligence
Understanding and managing one’s emotions, as well as empathizing with others, enhances collaboration. Emotional intelligence allows for better teamwork and conflict resolution, contributing to a harmonious work environment.
