Sage Gateshead’s new name is Glasshouse International Center for Music

The new name and brand are inspired by the idea that “music is alive and growing in the North East”, as well as hundreds of memories from local people about what the region’s largest cultural charity means to them.

Abigail Pogson, managing director of The Glasshouse, said: “Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences of live music with us to help shape this new identity. Today begins a new era, building on everything that has happened so far in the charity’s almost 20 years.

“We look forward to continuing to see people in the Northeast enjoying and making great music by collaborating with musicians from around the world as well as our most musical region.”

The search for Sage Gateshead’s new name began when it was announced that an arena and conference center would be built next door, called The Sage.

The charity’s audience, young musicians, artist friends, orchestra musicians and community partners are spreading the word and turning up at launch events throughout the week.

Abigail Pogson, Managing Director of The Glasshouse (Image: Contributor)

This weekend (September 16th and 17th), The Glasshouse opens its doors for two days of free live music, building tours and music-making opportunities. This open weekend will celebrate the charity’s new name and a new year with live music.

The Glasshouse, which has hosted over 10,000 performances since opening in 2004, is also launching a new Music Pass, laying the foundation for supporting future music lovers. For every baby born in the North East and Cumbria this year, the charity will give families a voucher to use towards their concerts, performances or courses.

John McCabe, chief executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce, said: “The transformation into The Glasshouse International Center for Music underlines the charity’s ongoing mission to bring the best cultural experiences to the North East.”

“Culture plays an important role in the region’s identity and it’s fantastic to see The Glasshouse boldly moving forward to create and celebrate outstanding music, nurture talent and bring the North East onto the world stage.”

“We look forward to helping The Glasshouse attract international talent and foreign investment by showcasing the region as the best place to live, work and do business.”

The center’s new identity was inspired by hundreds of locals who shared memories of listening and learning music at the Glasshouse. This was celebrated on a special website where thousands watched and listened to each other’s stories.

The new identity reflects the vibrancy and energy of the music-making that takes place at the Glasshouse and its activity across the region. A new brand celebrates the music center’s architecture, which it said is “as much a symbol of home as the Tyne Bridge”.

The Glasshouse is one of Gateshead’s largest employers and has created £500 million of economic value for the area. It is also home to the UK’s only full-time chamber orchestra, the Royal Northern Sinfonia.