UCLan to host free international Future Sound Music Conference in May

The University of Central Lancashire is bringing together experts from the world academia and the music industry for the inaugural, 2 day Future Sound Music Conference on 16th and 17th May.

Activities at the Preston Campus will include the presentation of the latest research, keynote speeches and symposiums from industry experts and a chance for students and the general public to gain insight into how the music industry works.

The assembly of experts will include distinguished academics and researchers from both the UK and overseas, such as:

• Professor Michael Huber from the Vienna-based Institute of Sociology of Music

• Dr Rupert Till, esteemed academic and author

• Owen Hatherley, journalist and author

• Professor Ewa Mazierska, professor of contemporary cinema at UCLan

• Dr Niall Scott, senior lecturer in ethics at UCLan

Conference co-organiser Tony Rigg said: “The panels have been designed to feature expertise that covers the main areas of the contemporary music industry, and include entrepreneurial thinkers, representatives from key institutions, artists, managers, and people working at the cutting edge of the digital music environment.”

Industry contributors will include Nicola Spokes, Marketing Director for Ministry of Sound Recordings, music venue and festival entrepreneur Aaron Mellor who is well versed in the social consumption of music, royalty expert Daniel Jones from PRS for Music, and entertainment industry lawyer Rudi Kidd.

Rigg, who is also active in the music industry and helped to set up UCLan’s ground breaking Master of Arts programme in Music Industry Management and Promotion, added: “Whilst we will be exploring new knowledge, you don’t have to be an expert, a student, or working in the industry to attend. This event is also ideal for anyone who might want to make a living from music related activities, or is considering studying at the University. Members of the public are very welcome. There is no charge for attending but it will be necessary to reserve a place in advance.”

Day one is largely dedicated to an academic agenda covering music as a broader subject area. Day two will open with keynote speaker Prof Michael Huber in the morning, followed by a session covering revenue streams and career opportunities in music and related areas. Tuesday afternoon will focus on current practice in the music industry but perhaps more significantly will see a panel of experts consider where things are heading.

To reserve a place for part or all of the conference, register via the EventBrite link below. To request more information, email [email protected]