There is always apprehension when you go into the second year of an event. Year one is all about establishing proof of concept and often comes with the euphoric excitement of an idea that has been brewing for months coming into existence. However, for year two, it’s important to see genuine progress. Suffice to say, GTL Sessions 2025 certainly ticked this box. The latest addition to the TPi event portfolio saw almost 50 tour managers assemble in Mykonos in May, for a three-day networking experience with tour services suppliers including hoteliers, travel agents, insurers, logistics specialists and many more.
One of the main focusses this year was to see greater diversity among the tour managers in attendance. This included having TMs that represent an array of acts operating at different levels – from club through to stadium tours. We saw a huge array of industry experts, from certified veterans to those only a few years into their career.
In line with this goal, TPi introduced the GTL Bursary scheme for 2025. Sponsored by Rock-it Cargo and Accor, the scheme saw Monique Oshunrinde and Dalal Rajhi attend the event with all travel expenses taken care off. Along with the bursary spots, the broad range of experiences on the island led to some amazing dialogue between the TMs and suppliers. Between the rounds of ‘speed-dating’ style meetings in which TMs sat down for 20-minute conversations with suppliers, this year also offered a wide range of talks during the Symposia Session. This year’s line-up included Tour Managers, Ade Bullock and Suzi Green along with Gary Brooks of SR Entertainment & Sport and Mike Bolton of Go For Wardrobe.
Another key focus was mental health – specifically how to deal with the pressures of being a leader. To this end, GTL once again partnered with the MITC [Music Industry Therapy Collective] and brought along Chris Madden for two presentations on the subject.
“GTL Sessions strikes the perfect balance between inspiration, connection and concrete industry insight,” commented Etienne Matichard of MAMA Shelter. “As a hotelier, it gave me a deeper understanding of the touring world and how we can better support it. It’s not just an event – it’s a real bridge between people who rarely get the chance to speak openly.”
As a return attendee, TAG’s Kel Hayden shared how GTL Sessions is now a “staple” in the company’s yearly calendar: “We are keen to know what challenges tour managers are facing, and this event gives us the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding,” she said.
Speaking from a tour manager standpoint, Joanne Croxford, added: “Being among peers who understand the innuendos of this unique lifestyle was truly fantastic and a chance to instigate real relationships with suppliers was invaluable and will inevitably save the day when the going gets tough on the road.”
During GTL Sessions, Croxford – a member of Roadies in Recovery – hosted a meeting open to attendees in recovery or who wanted more information about addiction.
Reflecting on her experience, Tour Manager, Julz Walker, stated: “It’s so rare to have that many tour managers in one place and it was so nice to be around like-minded people. Everyone was so lovely, and I really enjoyed networking and making new friends.”
GTL Sessions will return in 2026. Visit the website below to register your interest:
