Punch Records and Rich Castillo launch A&R Academy for young music industry talent

The programme will support 10 young people aged 18–30, offering practical training and industry access for those interested in A&R, artist development and label careers. Applications open on 1 July via the Punch Records website and close on 8 August.

The eight-week programme will begin in September and is open to young people across the UK. It has been designed to widen access to one of the music industry’s most influential career areas, with a particular focus on supporting those from underrepresented communities.

Participants will explore the key areas of modern A&R, from scouting and evaluating new talent to artist development, branding, marketing, digital strategy and label operations. The Academy will include workshops, live music scouting, guest speakers, networking and a final pitch event, where participants will present an artist they believe in to a panel of industry professionals. Participants will also attend major live music events, including The Mercury Prize.

Rich Castillo, music industry executive and founder of LionBear Music Group, said, ‘Great A&R changes everything – it shapes culture, careers and the sound of a generation. But the industry needs more pathways, more representation and more opportunities for young people who have the passion and the talent, but not the access. This Academy is about giving them the tools, the knowledge and the network to succeed. The future of A&R depends on who gets the chance to step forward.’

Ammo Talwar, CEO and Founder of Punch Records, added, ‘The UK music industry thrives when new voices, new perspectives and new talent are given space to lead. A&R is one of the most influential roles in the sector, yet access to it has traditionally been limited. The A&R Academy is about investing in the next generation – opening doors, building skills and ensuring the future of A&R reflects the diversity and creativity of the UK.’

Sannah Sajid, Head of Campaigns at Punch Records, said, ‘A&R shapes the future of music, but too many talented young people don’t get the chance to step into it. The A&R Academy is about opening that door – creating real pathways, increasing representation and backing the next generation of tastemakers. When we invest in diverse A&R talent, the whole industry gets stronger.’

Castillo has worked across artist management, label A&R and music publishing, with senior experience at Universal Music Canada, Sony Music Publishing, Atlantic Records and EMI Records. His career has included work with artists including Chase & Status, Tion Wayne, Jess Glynne, Stefflon Don, Young Adz and N-Dubz.

Punch Records, founded in Birmingham in 1997, works across music, arts and cultural development, with a particular focus on Black music, underrepresented artists and creative career pathways. The new Academy forms part of its wider talent development work, supporting emerging creatives to build skills, networks and professional opportunities.

Applications for the A&R Academy open on 1 July 2026 at <https://www.wearepunch.co.uk/academy> and close on 8 August. Interviews will take place in early September, with the selected participants announced in mid-September.