Inspired, rather than intimidated, by new leaps in technology, a collective of independent record labels, promoters and musicians have sought to put together a forum for like-minded people, to discuss the future of the industry.
 
Often overlooked amongst the doom-laden headlines of the mayors and larger Indies, the grass roots industry really is at the forefront of change. They are breaking new bands to the most tech-savvy and copyright liberal audience ever. At the same time, new methods of production, distribution and promotion has given them unprecedented opportunity to access markets around the world.
 
For once, talent and imagination are the only real limit to what can be achieved.
 
To that end, Un-convention has gathered together some of the countries most innovative and influential players to get a handle on where the industry is today, and where it will be tomorrow.
 
With panels chaired by Huw Stephens (Radio 1), Howard Mills (Humble Soul), Ruth Daniel (Fat Northerner), and Howard Monk (The Local), for two days, and three nights, Un-convention will look at all aspects of the modern music industry.
 
Joined by over thirty of the most forward thinking minds in the current scene, there will be discussions on the future role of record labels, the renewed emphasis on live performance, how to gain exposure across all forms of media, and also a look at some of the most innovative ideas and business models around.
 
A core value of Un-convention is that it is inclusive and accessible to everyone. It is an event very much aimed at people working at the coalface of music. It is as much about participation as it is learning; it’s about asking questions and sharing experience. Un-convention is running a blog so participants can have there say on what should be discussed at the event. The blog can be found at www.unconvention.wordpress.com
 
It is an opportunity to network with others trying to find new and exciting ways of working with music. Un-convention is for DIY and small independent labels, self-releasing artists, promoters and venues, record stores, distributors, journalists & PR, and anyone else with an interest in the future of the music industry.
 
The two days of industry discussion will be interspersed with acoustic sets from some of the most exciting new acts around, curated by Red Deer Club.
 
The evenings will see full band sets from the likes of Graham Massey’s Toolshed, the hotly tipped This Years Model, the impeccable Cats in Paris, and Mancunian favourites the Ironweed Project, with many more still to be announced.
 
Un-convention will take place at the Sacred Trinity Church, Chapel Street, Salford, M3 5DW, England.
 
The opening night will be Sunday 5th October 2008, and the event will run until the evening of Tuesday 7th of October 2008.
 
Panel events, networking and acoustic sessions will run through Monday and Tuesday daytime. Band Showcases will run on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday evenings
 
Early bird full event passes, which allow access to all of the evening band showcases and all the daytime panels, networking and acoustic sessions are currently available for £18. Individual ticket options are also available.
 
For full details of this years line up, and ticket information visit the Un-convention blog at: www.unconvention.wordpress.com
 
Enquires:
 
Jeff Thompson
T: 0779 599 1169
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Ruth Daniel
T: 0779 321 5618
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