Fresh Faces Join the Team

- Date
- 28 May 2026
- Category
- News
It’s an exciting time for Brighter Sound, with new staff and Trustees to welcome to the team.
But first, a final thank you to previous Board members Andy Lovatt, Matt Wilde and Michael Ball for their continued support over the last 10+ years. We wish them all the best in their future ventures in the creative industries and beyond. Legends all round!
Looking ahead, we’re delighted to welcome four new members to our Board of Trustees:
- Composer, producer, DJ and broadcaster AFRODEUTSCHE
- Music innovation specialist Amalie Briden
- Creative industries researcher Dr Roaa Ali
- Finance professional and musician Sarah Biggerstaff
As for the latest member of staff, we’d like to introduce creative leader and musician Phill Howley as our new Head of Programmes.
A Manchester-based musician, facilitator and creative development specialist, Phill has been leading and delivering work across our programme for over 10 years – from music-making sessions for young people, to the First Steps series for BRITs Fringe 2026. He brings more than 20 years’ experience designing inclusive, community-focused programmes across the UK.
Find out more about our new additions below...
“A huge thank you and a very warm welcome to the brilliant people joining our Board and staff team. We’re excited to bring together such a wide range of experiences, perspectives and creative energy as we take our next steps as an organisation and continue growing our work supporting musicians and creatives in Manchester and beyond.”
Kate Lowes, Director









