POP MUSIC INDUSTRY CONFERENCE
PRESENTED BY
Associated Students Pop Music
At Western Washington University
Saturday, February 22nd 2014
Connecting, Networking, and Learning with music industry professionals.
Below are the names and descriptions of this year's panels. Each panel will consist of several panelists in an intimate setting in which to discuss the industry related topic.
Sound Communication: Music’s influence on artists, listeners, and the community
Panelists: Ryan Abeo, Domenica Clark, Naomi Wachira
Music is a powerful and influential medium that speaks to an audience in a multitude of ways. Whether it’s inspiring social change, a lifestyle, or meant to evoke specific emotions, Sound Communication will focus on the conscious or unconscious decisions made by artists and the influence it has on listeners and communities alike. Through insightful discussion, we will explore the music writing process, messages conveyed in music, and how these ideas are interpreted.
Pop and Print are Fickle Things: The importance of local music coverage in the digital age
Panelists: Kelton Sears, Trent Moorman, Carey Ross, Sharlese Metcalf, Sean Nelson
Writing about music is more than a means of simply getting the word out. Many music writers, move beyond just reporting on release dates and concert times. Logistics matter, but so often greater themes are investigated and personal stories mingle with public art, placing the subject on an elevated pedestal. Pop and Print will look at region-specific music writing, on the page and off. We will explore the implications of music writing on unique scenes and sounds in an age where most coverage turns national and exists online or within a select group of large magazines. This panel is for those interested in pursuing music journalism, those who read it, and avid consumers of music in general.
They Thought For Themselves:
Forging your own path within the music industry
Panelists: Christian Fulghum, Kris Orlowski, Barbara Mitchell
Unlike many careers, there is no one, direct or guaranteed route to finding your “in” into the music industry. In fact, there are infinite paths an aspiring music industry professional could take in order to find any level of accomplishment. Whether you are striving to be a successful artist, talent buyer, or festival promoter, there are thousands of people competing for the job that you want. Pursuing a career in the music industry is not about following someone else’s avenue to success, but rather, thinking for yourself and forging your own and unique path. Thinking For Yourself will explore why the music industry functions like this, ways to build your experience to stand out from others, and we will hear the stories of accomplished music industry professionals and how they got their “in."
Panels
So You Think You Can Tour: What it really takes to survive life on the road
Panelists: Barrett Jones, Shenandoah Davis, Ausin Santiago
Touring is an exciting, fast-paced, and adventurous part of the music industry. With the endless amount of different faces, venues, and cities that one could experience, it is no wonder why so many people want to be a part of this unique branch of the music industry. Although life on the road certainly has its own perks, many individuals who aspire to partake in one of the many careers of touring often conceptualize it to be more glamorous than it truly is. “So You Think You Can Tour” will address the misperceptions about the lifestyle of touring, discuss why touring has certain connotations, and will provide insight in order to learn whether this field could fit for you. We will hear from a diverse group of professionals who have a variety of backgrounds in the world of touring.
Connecting Community: Bringing all ages together with the arts
Panelists: Cat Sieh, Kelli Faryar, Levi Fuller
Here in the Northwest, we’re lucky to be surrounded by music-lovers who are passionate about fostering relationships between local arts and local community. We know the “music industry” isn’t defined by corporate gain or limited to the bar scenes. If you’re a music performer or supporter interested in connecting our community through the arts, come share your thoughts and questions. We’ll explore the world of all-ages and nonprofit organizations which enrich our community and help make local music accessible for all.
Behind The Lights: Insight into music production and programming
Panelists: Christine Geronimo, Craig Jewell
From coffeehouse concerts to national festivals, what does it take to coordinate an awesome show? Off the stage, music production is an art in itself. Want a sneak peak in this fast-paced field? If you’re interested in getting involved behind the scenes of the music industry, come learn from professionals who know the scoop on event programming (including talent buying, marketing, and more). Our panelists will discuss the ins and outs of planning, promoting, and executing your dream event.
