Welcome to this year’s edition of Venue’s all-embracing guide to the West’s thriving music industry. From record shops to rehearsal studios, piano tuners to promoters, we’ve got every corner covered. Ben Welch is our man with a song in his head.

The Musicians' Guide intro is traditionally akin to something like Venue's State of the Union address. Frankly, though, we can pretty much condense it into just three words: keep it up. As per the last six or so years, much of the music is top notch, acts are determinedly pursuing their own creative path and, basically, we're bloody impressed. The listings, featuring just about every single contact you need to get on with your musical life. Enjoy!

• Record Shops
• Music Shops, Instrument Makers and Repairs
• Studios and Recording Services
• Rehearsal Space
• PA Hire
• Lighting
• CD Duplication
• Promoters and Labels
• Management and publicity
• Organisations
• Courses/Tuition and Specialist Services
• Venues
• Websites