Somewhere Conference
Somewhere Conference is an essential gathering for artists, music workers, and industry professionals seeking to grow their careers. Happening during the daytime on June 13 & 14, the conference will feature a fireside chat with Aloe Blacc, where he will discuss artistry, activism, and navigating the modern music industry. Attendees will also engage in panel discussions and workshops led by top industry professionals, exploring topics such as audience growth, platform-building, and using music as a force for social change. Hands-on learning opportunities will allow participants to develop practical skills in an intimate, collaborative setting, reinforcing the festival’s commitment to empowering music workers at every level.
PANELS
The conference will feature a series of thought-proving panels designed to explore key issues in the music industry. With discussions led by thought leaders and industry experts, these panels will cover critical topics like social change, mental health, and building community through music.
Aloe Blacc Fireside Chat
Aloe Blacc sits down with Chase Koch to talk about Aloe's 30-year career creating music and the ongoing pursuit of meaningful social change.
Alternatives to Music Education
A formal education in music isn’t the only way to grow in your career—and often isn’t the most appropriate avenue. Explore the journeys of professionals who are building careers outside the bounds of traditional music education.
At-the-Show Marketing
At almost any show you are a part of, whether you are playing on stage or an organization supporting the show, there will be a chunk of people in the room who are just hearing of you for the first time. This discussion will focus on how to engage and connect with live audiences using meaningful, non-invasive techniques so you’re still on their mind even after the encore.
Freedom of Expression in Making Music
Music is one of the most personal forms of expression, with many artists choosing to use their talent and platform as a way to highlight or articulate something significant to them—whether it be about socio-political issues, social change advocacy, navigating personal pain, etc. The speakers on this panel will explore how they use creativity to express their messages through music.
Home Growing a Music Community
If you’re making music, managing an artist, photographing bands, working at a venue, going to shows, etc., you’re a key player in your local music community. This panel will discuss ways you and your neighbors can engage your community to build up a thriving, self-sustaining scene that stands out on a national scale.
Local Marketing Methods
Your first fans are the ones in your community, so how do you reach out to them? Find out how to get more people through the door—because your next show deserves more than just your inner circle in the front row.
Marketing and Networking Outside of Social Media
While social media continues to be a vital tool for networking and promotion in music, a growing number of people are seeking alternative approaches. This panel will explore strategies that build a presence and gain visibility without having to be constantly tied to social platforms.
Music and Mental Health
As fun and rewarding as it is, working in music can bring along a lot of stress. This panel will discuss methods you can use to check in on yourself, your colleagues, and your fans.
New Pathways in Music
In an ever-changing world, it only makes sense that people are experimenting with how they work within it. Learn how workers and artists are redefining success in music by embracing fresh approaches that serve both their own needs and those of their communities.
Paradigm & Social Changes in Music
Change comes from within, and there are many people working in and creating music that are leading the charge and utilizing their platforms to make change happen. These speakers are leading by example, showing how to create more inclusive and supportive spaces within the music world and beyond.
WORKSHOPS
RSVP Only with Limited Capacity
The conference will also feature a series of hands-on workshops aimed at developing practical skills for music professionals, covering everything from touring logistics to personal branding.
Getting PR Ready
To grow an audience, every artist needs to be able to talk about themselves and their music in a way that is engaging and authentic. This workshop will help artists learn what they will need to effectively tell their story and sell themselves.
How to Route a Tour
It’s time to start bringing your music on the road, but where should you go… second? This workshop will help teach artists ways to start mapping out their tour route, and what goes into picking the right neighborhoods and finding the right venues to play.
Make Yourself Presentable—Branding as an Artist
Your music is great, sure, but how do you start to build a brand around yourself as an artist? This workshop will dive into what you can (and should) be doing to create a brand around your music project to start building an audience that cares about you and your story.
Setting Your Gear Up to Tour
A tour brings about many new challenges and unknowns, and one of the best ways to be prepared is to pack up your gear in a way that makes it easy to set up, break down, and survive the entire trip.
We’ll Loop It Live!
A live looping demo for musicians.
Working in a Collaborative Studio Space
A good team that works together well is what makes a studio feel so special and keeps people coming back to record their music. This workshop will show what it takes for a team to collaborate and maintain a fun, effective, and thriving studio space.
