Ireland Music Week is calling on Irish artists to apply to play at its 2021 edition – taking place from October 5-8.

To apply, log onto irelandmusicweek.com and click on the 'Apply To Play' button. Applications will be through the artists’ Breaking Tunes profile, and the closing date for applications is Friday June 18 at 6pm.

This year's festival will be adapted to suit Covid-19 restrictions – with Ireland Music Week continuing to monitor the reopening trials for live music venues and lifting of travel restrictions before making a final decision on whether the 2021 edition will be a virtual, in-person or a hybrid event.

“Last year IMW was one of the first global events to go fully virtual and it was an incredible success all told," Angela Dorgan, CEO of First Music Contact, comments. "We had a significant increase in the number of buyers, bookers and industry who were able to virtually attend the event and there were a lot of extra benefits to the artists post event with the availability of high-end live videos produced. However, we know that nothing quite replaces a live experience, so that will be our main aim for 2021, we will be led by our international buyers and our artists and official guidelines on what might work best for the event in 2021."

Up to 50 acts will have the chance to play and take part in the event, showcasing Ireland’s best emerging talent. The conference at the festival also gives artists a chance to learn and develop their craft and create new opportunities with agents, labels, bookers, music supervisors and services from all over the world.

Since its inception in 2003, the festival has showcased many of Ireland's most renowned acts, including Fontaines D.C., David Keenan, Kynsy, Alex Gough, Denise Chaila, CMAT, Fears, Tebi Rex, Nealo, Dani Larkin, Thumper, whenyoung, Soulé, Jafaris, Wyvern Lingo, Saint Sister, Fangclub, Rusangano Family, Villagers, Hozier, Girl Band, The Coronas, Loah, Soak, and many more.

For more information see irelandmusicweek.com/apply

Watch a selection of last year’s performances here.