Un-Convention embodies the spirit of independence, and celebrates the optimism, resilience and passion of music’s bright young things. From cutting edge artists, to taste-making labels, entrepreneurs who are redefining culture, and the people who make things happen in towns all across the UK and beyond, Un-Convention reflects the genuine sweat, blood and tears that underpins the music we love.

The first Un-Convention was designed to provide a forum for people with a dogmatic and unrelenting desire to put what they believe out there, to make people listen, and to discover something new. The Un-Convention goal was to launch an alternative and truly independent event that would not be about the next big thing or the next big deal but more about exchanging ideas, camaraderie, collectivism, and developing opportunities for creativity to flourish.

It is for doers, those with self belief, and the confidence to challenge the unknown, to take risks and break rules, for those who would rather seek forgiveness than ask for permission. It is for those who will define the future of the music industry.

The core element of Un-Convention is a series of five panels. Each panel will focus on a key issue - or issues – that independent or DIY artists, labels and promoters face.

Panellists from Un-Convention 2008 included Huw Stephens (BBC Radio 1), Andrew Dubber (New Music Strategies), Nathan Sudders (The Whip), Caroline Elleray (Universal Music), Jayne Compton (Switchflicker) and Laura Kennedy (Piccadilly Records).

In addition to panels and workshops Un-Convention presents the best new live talent, across genres, from all over the country. Un-Convention is not an industry showcase - more a celebration of talent below the mass media radar. Artists will perform during daytime acoustic sessions and over three nights of gigs.

Un-Convention 2008 artists performing included Denis Jones, Sliverclub, Down The Tiny Steps, Graham Massey’s Toolshed, Beth Jeans Houghton, Pacific!

“I thought the live panel was absolutely amazing. I go to a lot these things all around the world, and there’s often a level of expectation that’s way to high…it was about the audience, it wasn’t about the panelists, and that’s really important”  Crispin Parry, British Underground

More information http://unconvention.wordpress.com/