Facing the music in a tough market

Live entertainment events in Ireland, including music, arts, and theatre generated €1.7bn of revenue over the last 12 months and supported employment for almost 11,500 people, according to a recent report.

However, the changing nature of the music industry makes it increasingly difficult for up-and-coming bands to find an audience. Two Irish start-ups are using new technologies to help emerging music artists to find fans. Firstage hosts gigs in augmented reality, while the Muddy app helps new bands be discovered at festivals.

Firstage founder Keith Lawler describes the platform as a “new type of venue” where bands can play to an unlimited audience. He uses the example of a band from Ireland, which could potentially have a huge following in Australia, China or Japan, but the costs involved in playing overseas are prohibitive.