PANELS
FRIDAY, 8th MARCH 2019
A JOB FOR LIFE
10.15am - 11.10am
It’s quite difficult to define what a ‘career in music’ might look like. Quite often it involves years of hard work and setbacks to eventually reach some level of recognition, only for that to be a relatively short-lived moment. The fact that scenes and fashions change, along with the additional pressures and responsibilities that often come with age perhaps makes sustaining a long-term career in the industry quite a challenge. In most other industries time-served and experienced gained will usually lead to more stability, opportunity and income, but that often isn’t the case in music. In this panel we talk to artists and industry professionals about how to make music a part of life for the long-term.
THE LIVE MUSIC SECTOR
1.30pm - 2.30pm
This panel will explore the current independent live music scene. Although the live industry is booming it is clear that there are some concerns about the state of the grassroots and independent sector. In this panel we explore what is and isn’t working for promoters, venues and others at the coalface of the industry.
THE MODERN ROLE OF RECORD LABELS
4.00pm - 5.00pm
Of all the sectors of the music industry it is the labels that have had to adapt the most in recent years. At the first Un-Convention back in 2008 one of the themes central to the debate was whether labels could exist in the future, and indeed if they still had a role to play. With their core income stream being completely disrupted, and a new generation of artists building relationships directly with their fans it seemed that perhaps time was nearly up. However, in 2019 we still have a vibrant Indie label culture, and in a time where everyone can self-release perhaps they play a more important role than ever. Here we meet a range of labels that have adapted to the new ways of music consumption, to get an insight into how we can successfully champion new music in the modern world.
BREXIT
11.30am - 12.30am
The UK music industry has a strong and prosperous relationship with Europe. From the grassroots to stadiums the opportunity to freely access millions of music fans has been of huge benefit to artists in both the UK and across the continent. As the country braces itself for Brexit there is still considerable uncertainty as to what this will mean for the industry. What seems apparent though is that music at all levels will face new challenges, and there is a threat that culturally and economically artists, labels, promoters, festivals and fans on both sides of the North Sea will be worse off. In this panel we will explore how we envisage Brexit may impact music and more importantly what we can be doing to ensure we not only maintain but grow a healthy and mutually beneficial relationship with our neighbours going forward.
GOOD MUSIC
2.45pm - 3.45pm
“Can a mere song change a people's minds? I doubt that it is so. But a song can infiltrate your heart and the heart may change your mind.”
― Elvis Costello
Music can bring people together, break barriers and build aspirations. It can give a sense of identity and place, and act as a powerful tool to engage with those disenfranchised by the world around them. Across the globe, and in a range of contexts, music is used to improve lives, and sometimes, even to save them. In this panel we meet a range of organisations and initiatives that are using music to make the world a better place.