Thursday, August 30th

10:15 -11:45

Opening Remarks - Welcome to the IMC!

"Meet the Producers" PANEL

A group of well-known producers in one room!  This panel needs no further explanation.

12:00 -1:00

"Entering a Career in the Music Business" (Paula Savastano)

A forum that will present young and upcoming industry hopefuls on ways to market themselves, things to watch for and various areas of employment within the music industry. It is a basic all around "how to get into the business" and what working in the business is like.

"DIRECTtoFAN" (David Cooper)

The shorter the bridge between artists and their fans, the better. DIRECTtoFAN is the key to the new Internet music marketplace because it provides the tools to build a direct bridge between artists and their fans. Using the DIRECTtoFAN methodology means the fans are more informed and get all the latest information, products and services at the best price, and it allows the artists to tell their story in their own words and make the most profit by eliminating the middleman. DIRECTtoFAN is a set of tools to help manage the fan relationship via a web-based fan club, including website content, and web commerce.

"Industry Grind 101" (J Hatch)

A presentation and discussion of the realities of todays music industry and the respective grind that goes along with trying to make it to your goals. Outlining those goals, making a career map and planning your trip there. It's all based on an actual trip and materials needed to get to that destination. Discussion also includes then vs now in terms of the different avenues, mediums and technologies artists have at their disposal.

"Radio - The Missing Piece" (Nick Pargez)

As an independent promoter I have assisted artist and labels establish the most missed piece in being successful, Radio. My company does not do the run of the mill, pay me and let me work, oh no, we work with the artist/ label to set up in house radio promotions and give them the tools to target commercial and non-commercial radio. Most don't know where to start more less get airplay, we have developed the most comprehensive platform for working music to radio. Currently we have have an artist that is top 10 chr/rhy as an independent artist.   

1:30-2:45

"Publishing, Fact and Fiction" PANEL

The complex business of publishing will be discussed including: role of the publisher, benefit of their expertise to the songwriter, writer's share, publisher's share, statutory rates, the functions of the PROs, sync licensing, master use licensing, artist royalties (related but often confused with publishing), as well as which royalties are paid by radio. The myths that you should never assign or *give up" your publishing interests, and that artists should co-publish their songs or "retain 25% for nothing" will also be discussed.

3:00-4:00

"Breaking Down the Myths of Copyrights" (Michael Driscoll)

This presentation will focus on the history, provide clear definitions of copyrights, and distinguish between creation of art and registration. The necessity of copyrights and the protection it brings to the artist's art will be discussed.  For most artists the most valuable creations are not the CDs or cassettes manufactured, but your original songs and compositions. The following will be discussed: What Is a Copyright?  Who Can Claim a Copyright. What Works Are Protected? What Is Not Protected by Copyright? How to Secure Copyright Notice of Copyright. How Long Copyright Protection Endures. International Copyright Protection. Copyright Registration. Registration Procedures. Effective Date of Registration. Who May File an Application Form? Provide sample Application Forms. Discuss Fees. How to Search of Copyright Office Records.

"iStandard Producers - How to Get Heard" (Don DiNapoli)

This would be a lecture/Q&A session with up-and-coming hip-hop/R&B producers, where we would advise them on moves to make in regards to making placements on record labels, film/TV licensing, new media presentation, etc. 

"Winning with Arrangements" (Lawrence "Gelboni" Gelburd)

DIY can not compete with recording quality or access but they can through their songs and arrangements. Gelboni has arranged and produced songs by three unsigned bands who got into rotation at major (Clear Channel and Infinity) radio stations. See how you can too!

Raising Capital & Seed Money: Would you invest in you at this stage? (John Robertson)

There are six basics which must be in place before you sit down with potential investors/Angels to raise funding for your venture. Investors will not give you credit for having four out of five of these items in place. How to make the investorsÕ job a little easier by doing your due diligence through the eyes of the investor, before presenting your project. Your venture's portfolio of disclosure and readiness must be complete.

4:15-5:30

"What's My Line? Job Descriptions" PANEL

Producers, managers, booking agents, engineers, and others will describe their jobs and who does what. It can be a bit confusing when you are considering bringing a new team member aboard, especially if it's a manager or a lawyer. It can also be very helpful to know more about what you should and shouldn't expect from an engineer in the studio, booking agent, or publicity person. This panel will help you determine what to look for in your business relationships.

7:00-completion

"Live Performance Critique"

Artists and bands perform live for industry and peers. Get immediate feedback.

Friday, August 31st

10:30-11:45

"Technology" PANEL

A general overview discussion of the independent music industry. They said it couldn't be done, but here we are, many thousands of indie musicians using the new technologies to advance a career outside of the traditional market.

12:00 -1:00

"Blue Print for Music Success Seminar" (John Battaglia)

Many artists want to succeed, but few have a concrete plan in every area for their success. This seminar will present the following:

¥ How to have your live performance blow people away

¥ How to create your own unique look

¥ How to hone the message in your music

¥ How to portray yourself to the media in the most compelling way

¥ How to make your strongest impression

¥ How to define your sound in a cohesive way

¥ How to be seen in your best light with your photos and presentation materials

¥ How to attract the right team around you and build up your fan base, and much more!

The Blueprint for Music Success could be THE VERY THING that you've been looking for to propel your music career to the next level. If you do what you always do, you'll get what you've always got. If you want something different, then you have to do something different.

"Promoting and MySpace" (James Fetzer)

With all the competition among band in todays music industry it is important to get your message read just as it is to get it out there. From how to build fans & keep them. How to get people out to see & hear your band

"Rap/Hip-Hop" (TBA)

12:00-1:30

The Performing Songwriter's Paint Box - Vocal Workshop" (Kay Pere)

Unlock all the colors of your voice. Techniques to release the unique expressive palate of each song. Tools to create a vivid experience for your audience no matter what your style. Learn specific vocal and songwriting techniques which will bring you attention as a Performing Artist. Producers and vocal coaches working to encourage vocal artistry on stage and in the studio will also find value in the distinctive approach offered by this workshop. Kay Pere is a multi-dimensional music educator, performing songwriter, visual artist and activist, whose creative work embodies a message of hope, healing and humanity.

1:30-2:45

"Digital Delivery" PANEL

Digital delivery is a reality. Now we are seeing how it is affecting the market. Even in the short time that we have been utilizing this new distribution method, it has already morphed considerably.  Podcasting, ring-tones, digi-singles, sound tracks, and other digital marketplaces have already expanded this brand new opportunity. This panel will be a cutting edge discussion of these critical developments.  Topics will include protection of intellectual property rights, digital distro deals, and the state of the emerging digital delivery market.

3:00-4:00

"Basics of Music Publishing" (Rob Case)

The New A&R Scouts of the music industry. Learn the basic steps of the music publishing business including a detailed outline that every songwriter, composer, producer should know: Agreements, Studios, Budgets, and Copyrights.

"Multi-Media Marketing and Promotion - Internet and TV, Radio to the Streets (Billy Trrumpz)

This workshop will present an overview of different marketing strategies covering the streets to the radio and TV. Presented will also be different   ways to teach  an artist or executive at a small independent how to get the buzz going.  There will be TV and media people available to answer questions and help with these multi-level ways of marketing and promoting your next project.

ET - Entertainment Psychology" (Dr. Jamie Ballard)

 Do you sometimes think you should be further along in your career than you are?  Do your friends/family sometimes 'block' your walk towards success in the industry because they don't understand?  Do you find it hard to perform consistently at the level you know you're capable of performing?  Do you sometime doubt that you'll actually 'make it' in the entertainment industry?  Entertainment Psychology (EP) highlights the everyday dynamics that occur within the minds of artists, as a result of artists living their lives as such.  Both internal (artists themselves) and external (band/group members and the entertainment industry as a whole)  elements, along with their emotional, psychological, and interpersonal components are discussed as viewed through the lens of EP, towards the end of artists realizing brilliance in both their lives and careers.  Artists can design award winning lives as easily as they can write (or sing) award winning songs.   Come learn how.

Production Deals: "Word To The Wise" (John Robertson & David Ivory)

These instructors will discuss production and all that goes along with it.

4:15-5:30

"Is Rock and Roll Perfect? Should it Be?" PANEL

In the days of Auto-tune and Beat Detective, what constitutes appropriate usage of technology and what is simply a crutch or substitute for poor performances? Does a perfectly edited recording take the soul out of the music? How much does attitude and emotion contribute? When should you edit, and when should you leave well enough alone? What about live tracking in the studio?

7:00-1:00 a.m.

5th ANNUAL IMMIE AWARDS NIGHT - PERFORMANCES

Saturday, September 1st

8:30-10:30

"DISCourse" - CLOSED PANEL

Panelists will review submissions in a closed session (panelists only), in order to provide more effective and practical feedback on Saturday afternoon during the open DISCourse panel presentation.

10:30-11:45

"Health and Performance"

An open discussion on how to establish and maintain your physical and mental health as a performer. Issues such as vocal use and abuse, hearing loss, psychological balance, stress and others will be presented.

12:00-1:00

"Kill All The Lawyers"É Shakespeare's Henry VI (John Robertson)

Entertainment attorney John Robertson discusses production deals, publishing contracts, your rights and legal issues within the music business and the parameters of picking the right legal and business affairs team.

"The 8 Keys to Success in the Music Business" (Bill Pere)

Music is first and foremost a people-driven industry. Understanding the 8 factors that determine how people (band-mates, booking agents, DJ's managers, record producers, partners, and fans prefer to give and receive information can give you powerful leverage in navigating the maze of human dynamics. Bill's work and publications in this area, based on the widely used MBTI, have been called "groundbreaking" by Ian Bessler, Editor, Songwriter's Market.

"Acoustic Roundabouts" (Toni Koch)

Songsalive! will run acoustic performances throughout the conference weekend for Songsalive! members.

12:00-1:30

PRESS PARTY

1:30-2:45

"Media Challenge" PANEL

In the face of corporate consolidation, rapid changes and dizzying technological advances, what's an indie to do? How important is airplay these days, and how do you get some? What are the best ways to get press and media coverage? What are the best ways to promote via the media?

3:00-4:00

"Tripling Your Audience with Targeted Songwriting" (Bill Pere)

Are you reaching only 30% of your potential audience? The other untapped 70% is only a few key words away. You do not have to sacrifice artisitic integrity to reach a wider fan base. You just need to know some of the central factors in effective lyrical communication, and then decide how you want to apply them. The difference between songs that are liked and remembered by broad and diverse audiences as opposed to those that have a narrow following lies in a few easily applied techniques and an understanding of how people prefer to give and receive information. This workshop provides practical application of the information presented in "The 8 Keys to Success in the Music Industry".

"Studio Preparation/Production" (Kyle Ober)

How to best prepare yourself before entering the studio. Learn why it's important to know the reasons for going into the studio. It's not just, "Well ya know ... we jus' wanna record our songs Dude !!" Learn how to choose the material you wish to record and if it is truly ready to be recorded. Find out if you are ready to work with a producer and learn how to determine if he understands your vision. Find out if you even need a vision to work with a producer or is it about his vision? Discuss time tables... how long does all this take? What piece of equipment is your best friend before, during, and after your studio experience and probably for the rest of your life as a musician? (not a trick question)

"Who's Your Sugar Daddy/Momma? (Marcy Rauer-Wagman)

The New Investors Who will invest in an artist's developing career when major and mini-major labels are no longer investing? We will examine how to tap into the New Investors, and what those deals look like, from support from non-profit organizations to corporate sponsorship to obtaining patrons to fan investment. We'll talk about setting up the best kind of business to take advantage of the New Investments.

"Acoustic Roundabouts" (Toni Koch)

Songsalive! will run acoustic performances throughout the conference weekend for Songsalive! members.

4:15-5:30

"The New Definition of Radio" PANEL

The goals formerly obtainable only through radio airplay are now accessible to Indies through a variety of opportunities created by the new technologies. This panel will discuss leveraging the "new radio" for exposure and networking through the media itself.

5:30-7:00

"DISCourse" - OPEN PANEL

 A unique listening and discussion group where artists can get real world feedback on their CDs. Panelists will review submissions in a closed session (panelists only), in order to provide more effective and practical feedback during the DISCourse panel presentation. CDs and press kits MUST be submitted for review no later than Friday, August 31st at 5:00 at the registration table.

7:00-8:00

Dr. Lou's Radio Show Broadcast LIVE from the IMC

Be interviewed by Philadelphia's own Dr. Lou on Philadelphia's only all indie radio show!

8:00-2:00 a.m.

PERFORMANCES

Sunday, September 2nd

10:30-11:45

"Studio to the Street" PANEL

A moderated panel presentation of the steps that typically occur from the time the artist decides to market his/her music through the recording process, to a tour, possible indie label deal, and a discussion of how independent artists can learn and benefit from the "label" model.

12:00-1:00

"Your Creative Compass: How to Achieve Sustainable Creativity in a Busy Life" (Kay Pere)

We often focus on learning the business of music and craft of songwriting, but it is important not to overlook the wellspring from which it all comes -- our creativity and inspiration. Sometimes it seems difficult to find inspiration, to try something new, or to just have the time to create amidst the demands of a busy schedule. This workshop will address these issues and provide practical tools and strategies for insuring that your creative self never disappears under a heap of day to day demands on your time.

"Unleashing Absolute Power - The Ultimate in Building Your Music Business" (Xavier Powell)

How to change your Mindset for Music Business Success. How to take the shortest route from Goals to Results immediately How to become a consistent achiever and become a powerful music executive of your OWN Music Business How to research executives and their "credits" in the industry and it's not just by using Google - How to define your audience, and where to find "The Focus of Power" What to do first when you are making a presentation to label executives One simple action that most music professionals miss but it can make or break your success How to create a vision for your enterprise that will inspire others The three most essential functions in any company - How to create an organizational structure, even when you are a company of one The difference between REAL management and Smoke and Mirror Management How to play the corporate record label game and how to make the rules work for you Why you must have a career plan, and how to create one And much, much MORE!

"All You Need to Know About Getting Started in Today's Music Business" (Docta Shock)

Just getting started, been at it for a while, need to cut through the BS, getting frustrated with all the different tips and advice you've received? Here is the place for you to ask any question you may have about anything you need to know from an industry pro who will answer your questions on any subject in music  business... honestly.

"Acoustic Roundabouts" (Toni Koch)

Songsalive! will run acoustic performances throughout the conference weekend for Songsalive! members.

1:30-2:45

"Street Teaming, Buzz Building, Merch, Expanding Your Revenue Streams" PANEL

Members of the promotional side of the market will discuss the importance of incorporating a serious street teaming effort into your overall indie business efforts. Methods for attracting street teamers, rewarding them, managing the program and brainstorming other new promotional ideas will be highlights. This brainstorming session will include ideas for increasing CD sales, creating alternate revenue streams, and expanding overall sales and income efforts. Diversifying your revenue streams gives you much more security than if all your income is based on only one or two sources. Seek opportunities that can lead to supplemental income and round out an indie career.

3:00-4:00

"How to Do Successful Benefit Concerts" (Bill Pere)

For most artists and bands, "doing a benefit" usually means putting out a lot of work and playing for free. The main purpose of a benefit is to help some worthy cause, but non-profit does not have to mean no-profit for artists. Bill has raised more than half a million dollars for various charities through his performances, and is the Founder of LUNCH, a nationally recognized organization which uses the power of popular music to produce positive social action. Bill's upscale benefit events draw large audiences of people who pay to come and LISTEN to origianl music. As a result of his benefit work, Bill had received many offers for deals that result in real paychecks. It's all in knowing how to organize and execute an event, how to present your ideas, and how to present yourself and your music. Partnering with the non-profit sector is one of the best ways for any band or artist to take a great leap forward in their career while using their music to make the world a better place. This workshop will show you how.

"Got Ringing? - What EVERY Musician Needs to Know About Hearing Loss" (Elaine Ramos)

Hearing loss caused by exposure to music will be described, as well as preventative techniques designed for each band member so as to avoid losing hearing sensitivity during not only performances, but practice sessions as well. Issues such a "tinnitus" (ringing in the ears) will be discussed along with most current research on music-induced hearing loss and treatment.

"Hip-hop/Rap" (TBA)

"Acoustic Roundabouts" (Toni Koch)

Songsalive! will run acoustic performances throughout the conference weekend for Songsalive! members.

4:15-5:30

"Indie Booking and Full Spectrum Touring"

Many Indies realize the importance of watching their budget and utilizing DIY methodology for their booking and touring efforts.  But what's the point of touring?  This panel takes it to the next level. Maximize your effectiveness: gig-swapping, interviews, airplay, promotion, retail.  Time is precious and touring is a massive undertaking; learn to tie in all the critical elements. These experienced road warriors will help you make the most of your efforts.

7:00-1:00 a.m.

PERFORMANCES

Monday, September 3rd

11:00-5:00

"Songsalive! Songcamp" (Toni Koch, Bill Pere)

A 6-hour, high powered, focused songwriting camp where songwriters and composers can gain valuable feedback on their music, and collaborate in co-writing with other writers under the guidance of special Songsalive! songwriter mentors. Songcamp starts with a critique session on your songs, followed by an intensive co-writing session where songwriters are split into breakout groups under the guidance of mentors to co-write and deliver a completed song. This song will then be performed to the full group and music business execs at the end of the session. To participate, sign up in advance for the Songcamp during the conference at the Songsalive! booth.