A free two-day online conference for music professionals, discussing key issues affecting the industry and providing practical advice.

Wednesday 2 December and Thursday 3 December 2020, 10am-5pm

Join the ISM for a free two-day online extravaganza on Wednesday 2 December and Thursday 3 December 2020. At the end of a turbulent and disruptive year for the UK music sector, The Empowered Musician will examine the key issues for our industry beyond 2020, offering music professionals much-needed support and inspiration, and demonstrating the viability and value of a creative career.

This opportunity for discussion and discovery will bring together innovative artists and leading music industry experts to share their experiences and offer practical advice for success. In a series of future-focused keynote speeches and interactive panel discussions we’ll explore ways musicians can remain creative through the pandemic, the value of music to society, the opportunities and drawbacks of tech, the impact of COVID-19 on existing inequalities in the music sector and advice for staying resilient in challenging times.

Book your ticket today and be part of the conversation.

Event Schedule

Day 1: Wednesday 2 December 2020

10am: Opening words and keynote speech from Dr Anita Collins

10.30 – 11.45am: Lockdown music 1: The view from the performers

A panel of artists discuss the highs and lows of making and performing music during lockdown. We’ll hear how music has lifted the nation’s spirits and how musicians have responded creatively to the challenges of COVID-19, coming up with innovative solutions and connecting with new audiences.

12 – 1.15pm: Lockdown music 2: The view from the venues

This session explores the ways COVID-19 has affected UK music venues and hit income streams. We talk to venue owners and promoters from across the UK about staying afloat during the pandemic and how they’re facing the challenges ahead.

1.15-2pm: In conversation with David Lammy MP

1.15-2pm: Find out more about the ISM

Want to know more about us? Join the ISM’s Membership & Marketing Officer Sam Flower to find out how the ISM can support you in your music career. You will learn about our campaigning and lobbying work and how we support our members with insurances, legal and business advice, promotion, professional development and much more, as well as having the chance to ask questions and meet fellow music professionals.

2 – 3.15pm: Is there a future for the musician?

In this session, we look at the value of music in society. Our panellists will explore why musicians will be vital to the jobs market of the future, and the positive impact of the arts on our cities, our economy and our health.

3.30 – 4.45pm: The musician’s toolkit

We know it’s tough out there for freelancers at the moment, with COVID-19 ongoing and Brexit imminent. Our panel of legal, business and marketing experts will help you navigate the ever-changing industry landscape and equip you with the skills and tools you need to succeed, covering contracts, copyright, royalties, publishing, touring, funding, promotion, marketing and more.

Day 2: Thursday 3 December 2020

10am: Opening words and keynote speech from Dr Kadiatu Kanneh-Mason

10.30 – 11.45am: Tech – is it the answer?

In 2020, digital connections became more important than ever. What opportunities can be unlocked by tech, and what are its drawbacks? How can musicians monetise online performance, and how do they connect virtually with their audience? What does successful digital teaching look like? We’ll explore all these questions and more.

12 – 1.15pm: COVID-19 and its impact on gender, race and disability

Our expert panel will discuss whether existing inequalities in the music sector have been exacerbated or brought to light by COVID-19. How can we widen access to creative careers and work together to create a more diverse and inclusive industry?

1.15-2pm: SK Shlomo performance and music tech masterclass

Join award-winning beatboxer and producer SK Shlomo for an exclusive lunchtime live performance and music tech masterclass. This is a chance to see Shlomo in action and learn some tips and tricks from a live-looping world champion.

1.15-2pm: Find out more about the ISM

2 – 3.15pm: Staying resilient

At a time of turmoil, change and hardship, it is more important than ever to ensure you are looking after yourself. Our panel of experts will provide practical guidance on staying physically, mentally and financial resilient and musicians will share their personal experiences of the pandemic.

3.30-4.30pm : In conversation with Roderick Williams OBE

4.30pm: Closing words from ISM CEO Deborah Annetts and ISM President Chris Collins

For further information, visit www.ism.org/em2020