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AMBC - Music Piracy, Consumer CD, Download & Mobile Music Survey

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

One of Australia's leading music industry companies has commenced a massive online survey on the physical (CD, DVD & Vinyl) music products and digital downloading of music by consumers, including the legal and illicit online acquisitions of digital music. In a five minute survey of 40 questions, the results will include mobile use, playback devices, music use and even live music participation with the three weeks of over 15,000 potential respondents results being released at Sydney's AustralAsian Music Business Conference August 20-22.

This 2009 music survey follows a similar project in 2003 that IMMEDIA! produced on a limited scale among music industry professionals which was aimed at changes in the Copyright Act to allow the transfer of music from vinyl, CD, tape and other formats legally to both physical media and digital players. This new expanded survey is not commissioned by any commercial, government or industry organisations, is anonymous and the results will be freely distributed.

"There are both outdated. irrelevant industry association stats as well as highly priced and complex commercial surveys on various aspects of music use." IMMEDIA! Managing Partner Phil Tripp explains. "Though we're not in the survey business, IMMEDIA! wants to compile a current and independent survey that is relevant without an agenda, cost or propaganda outcome. The analysis will be independently done and all answers are anonymous without tracking or the ability to submit more than one survey response per person."

While major record companies' sales have plunged almost 50% since 2000, and with thousands of CD shops and chain stores closing or shedding titles, more music than ever is being made available to consumers globally and it's being consumed at record levels. But in order to plan for the future of music formats, copyright and delivery to the end user, the industry needs hard data without bias. That's the reason for this short but concise survey being made available via leading music industry portal TheMusic.com.au (http://www.themusic.com.au/survey)

Results are released to media as well as industry on August 20, the opening day of the 9th biennial AustralAsian Music Business Conference peak industry event (http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc) which attracts over 500 industry attendees as well as featuring over 50+ speakers in nine seminars and six keynotes from top Australian and overseas executives. The survey has opened July 8 at http://www.themusic.com.au/survey with an emailout of over 15,000 alerts to subscribers, national music press and media publicity and will close July 31.

For further details, images or interviews, contact Jessica Kalucy at IMMEDIA!
(02) 9557 7766 E: jessica@immedia.com.au Intl: (61-2) 9557 7766

AMBC and FILMS - RiP AMBC Winners Announced

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

These 6 lucky attendees of our RiP: A Remix Manifesto screenings have each won three-day tickets to the 9th AustralAsian Music Business Conference held from 20th-22nd August 2009.

Zelda Sheldon SYDNEY
Beau Deurwaarder MELBOURNE
Dave Nottage ADELAIDE
Simon Bint PERTH
Kayleen Kerr BRISBANE
Matthew Goodwin NEWCASTLE

More details on the conference at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc

SXSW - How To Apply to Showcase at SxSW From A Foreign Country

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The South by Southwest Music Festival and Conferences happen March 18-22, 2009 in Austin Texas with over 1500 bands showcasing in 60+ venues over five nights. Submission to showcase takes place online only at http://www.sxsw.com starting in August and terminating in late October. You do not apply to the Australian rep, all materials are to be directed to the website.

A set of Frequently Asked Questions which we suggest you review are online at http://2008.sxsw.com/music/showcase/faq but here are some basic bits.

More than 9000 artists from around the world applied in 2008, 200 from Australia and 40 from New Zealand. Only 60 artists from Australia and New Zealand were invited and only 40 were able to play. It is highly competitive, you MUST have a US visa (approximately US$2500-$3500 per band), you must arrange all your own transport, accommodation and instruments and you get one hour to set up and play before the next band in the night's lineup at that venue takes over the stage.

An excellent article on the state of play with US visas was published in the Boston Phoenix June 23 2008 at http://thephoenix.com/Boston/News/63473-Immigrant-song which I urge you to read if you are not familiar with the labyrinth of visa applications.

It is not for the unprepared, nor for frivolous submissions. You should only apply to showcase at SxSW if you already have the funds necessary (Figure $20,000 for a four piece) and if you are at the right point in your career to benefit from playing there. Going up against 1500 other artists means you must have resources to be heard above the noise, have recordings, airplay and market recognition in your home country to be appropriate and also have the backup of management and other support to take advantage of the opportunity.

Generally we suggest either the manager or a key band member go to SxSW the year before applying to understand how it works, how competitive it is and how the Australian and New Zealand artists, managers and labels work the event from the showcases to the national stands in the trade fairs and through publicity or promotion.

You'll find further information on the Australian/NZ SxSW website at http://www.themusic.com.au/sxsw/showcase.php.

Best of luck.

PHIL TRIPP--Representative for Australia & New Zealand.

SXSW - Free New Zealand SxSW Seminars--Wellington June 29 and Auckland June 30

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

New Zealand Dates & Speakers for Free Wellington & Auckland Music Seminars

WELLINGTON: June 29 Bodega Bar 101 Ghuznee Street, Wellington City 6pm-9pm

AUCKLAND: June 30 Transmission Room Cnr Mayoral Dr & Queen St. 6pm-9pm

And we have top NZ music biz speakers--all South by Southwest veterans

Wellington Speakers: Roger Shepherd--founder of Flying Nun Records; Murray Hepple--Overseas tour and production manager, Owner Bar Bodega; Gary Fortune--Export Manager New Zealand Music Industry Commission, Teresa Patterson--CRS Management; Phil Tripp--South by Southwest NZ & OZ rep

Auckland Speakers: Amy Robinson--Ruby Suns; Matt Coleman--Manager Midnight Youth, Dane Rumble, Jonny Love, SideKickNick and Haylee Fisher; Gary Fortune--Export Manager New Zealand Music Industry Commission; Teresa Patterson--CRS Management; Phil Tripp--South by Southwest NZ & OZ rep

We invite all levels of the New Zealand Music Industry to attend, including music business students, at no charge to find out about two major events. We have experienced music industry speakers on a Q&A panel each night.

South by Southwest Music Festival & Conferences (SxSW) is the world's largest and most prestigious series of showcases, conference and trade fair and especially critical to the success of many New Zealand artists and music businesses who have made the trek to Austin, Texas every March. With a national stand and major concert event each year, the New Zealand Music Industry Commission has supported a growing contingent of bands, labels, managers, promoters, agents and other music business professionals to use SxSW for export success. What we're going to cover in part of the seminar:

* Tips, techniques, secrets, strategies and the costs involved to be a part.
* How & when do bands best apply for showcases (1800 in 5 nights at 88 venues)
* What can indie labels and music businesses get from participating at SxSW?
* What support is available for exporting NZ music, artists & businesses?
* When is the best time to begin a SxSW strategy & when's the best time to go?
* How to save money on travel, accommodation and get the maximum benefits.
* Who to contact, how to get to them and using the registrant database.
* Where to get to media in advance and on the ground for vital exposure.

So whether you're planning to go in 2010 (with artist showcase applications and delegate registration opening August 3) or the following year, this free meeting is critical in driving your presence there and back home. If you're not able to attend, then go to http://www.themusic.com.au/sxsw for OZ & NZ details.

AustralAsian Music Business Conference (AMBC) to be held in Sydney August 20-22 is the second reason for our two free seminars. With 50 speakers/panelists and nine seminars, six keynotes and no showcases or trade fair stands, it's a three day networking and music business think tank that only happens every two years.

We routinely get several progressive Kiwi music industry attendees who take advantage of this high level conference at a cost-effective price and use it as a base to doing business on this side of the ditch. It's our ninth in 18 years and will be one of the best with an incredible lineup of speakers already.

You can see details of the topics, speakers, panels and more at our extensive AMBC website http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc. And in each city we're speaking at, one lucky attendee will win a full three day pass to the AMBC. Plus we're doing a draw from the music professionals who come to our seminars in Wellington and Auckland for a round trip ticket to Austin Texas for SxSW, a ten day VIP Platinum Badge for the SxSW Music, Film and Interactive Festivals & Conferences as well as a few more goodies. That winner will be announced at the AMBC.

TO RSVP FOR THESE FREE SEMINARS simply email tripp@immedia.com.au and your name will be on the door for the Velvet Rope treatment. At the seminar, you can fill in your chit for the AMBC and SxSW draws, come in and meet your NZ music peers, shout yourself a round and take in what the experienced SxSW & AMBC veterans have to reveal. We hope to see you there as it's our only set of seminars for 2009. Details being updated at http://www.themusic.com.au/sxsw/nz

AMBC - June 15 Deadline to Save on the Music Business Confab

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

We've extended Early Bird lowest registration rates to June 15 and added several new speaker/panelists to over 35 of our 50+ at 2009's best music biz conference.
These include Music Licensing's Kim Green, Soundbuzz GM Paul Buchanan, Gibson Guitar Entertainment Relations Clayton Doughty, The Music Network Editor Jade Harley and more to be announced in the coming weeks.

We've announced a couple of new keynote speakers---'The Future of Music' author Gerd Leonhard and TuneCore founder Jeff Price--bringing us to four of the six industry leaders that will inspire the 600+ audience at the 9th AustralAsian Music Business Conference (AMBC) August 20-22 at Acer Arena in Sydney and we've now got 30 of the 50 top panelists confirmed for our 9 seminars over 3 days. Added today--music licensing pro Kim Green & Music Network Editor Jade Harley.

NOW'S THE TIME TO REGISTER, SAVE MONEY, GET A HOTEL & LOW AIRFARES
But our lowest early bird rates are only valid for registrations made & paid by June 15 when the prices rise significantly for the music industry's leading event that only happens every two years. You can see the topics, speakers & schedule at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc where you can also register now at low rates.

SPEAKERS -- http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc/speakers.php
TOPICS & PANELS BY DAY -- http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc/daily.php
REGISTRATION -- http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc/register

The rates now until June 15 are:

3 day Early Bird to June 15 Regular--$495; APRA/AAM/MMF--$445.50; Student--$396
if paid June 16 - July 31 Regular--$660; APRA/AAM/MMF--$594; Student--$528

2 day Early Bird to June 15 Regular--$350; APRA/AAM/MMF--$315; Student--$280
if paid June 16 - July 31 Regular--$550; APRA/AAM/MMF--$495; Student--$440

1 day Early Bird to June 15 Regular--$250; APRA/AAM/MMF--$225; Student--$200
if paid June 16 - July 31 Regular--$350; APRA/AAM/MMF--$315; Student--$280

If there are any seats left after the July 31 regular rates expire, they will be
3 days--$770 2 days--$600 1 day--$400 with a 10% discount for MMF/APRA/AAM members and the 20% discount still intact for students. So act now!!!

For those of you who will be travelling from interstate, we have cheap on-site hotels and special low airfares through Brad Thomas of Travel Managers, our official travel agent brad@travelmanagers.com.au or (02) 9280 3767--but these are only available to those who have fully registered and paid for the AMBC.

HOW TO REGISTER
You can do it online at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc/register or we can email you or fax the registration form to complete and mail to us with payment. We take Mastercard & Visa securely online & accept cheques, money order or EFT.
You can call Jessica at (02) 9557 7766 or email info@immedia.com.au for a form.

WHAT YOU GET -- (Nine Cool & Valuable Things)
* Conference registration for one, two or three full days. Your choice.
* The Big Showbag with valuable music business publications & schwag.
* Use of our attendees-only private online ACCESS with hundreds of articles.
* Advance networking with other attendees from early June in the ACCESS Area.
* Your contact details on our private site (optional) only visible to delegates
* Free subscription to an online music trade magazine to August 25.
* Networking drinks & nibbles at the end of each day with speakers & attendees.
* Your chance to win a free trip to South by Southwest Music Festival 2010.
* An incredible insight into the future of music and your place in it!

AMBC - Music Business Cheap Flights & Hotels for Sydney Conference

Sun, 24 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

With only ten days to go with cheap early bird registration rates for our
9th AustralAsian Music Business Conference August 20-22 at Sydney's ACER Arena, we're happy to share the news that our travel agent, Brad Thomas of Entertainment TravelManagers has secured some killer airfare and hotel bargains for four properties at the Homebush Olympic Centre where our three day conference occurs.

This makes it especially attractive for those wanting to attend from interstate to the event that only happens every two years and already has an amazing lineup of top speakers--30 of our 50+ already announced. You can see the schedule, topics, speakers with bios all at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc.

Here are the current travel bargains which will sell out quickly and are only available to confirmed and paid registrants for AMBC. See pricing below as a guide and contact brad@travelmanagers.com.au or call (02) 9280 3767.

Conference Rate
Hotels

Pullman (5*)
19th / 20th / 21st $210.00
22nd $350.00

Novotel (4*)
19th / 20th / 21st $170.00
22nd $253.00

Ibis (3.5*)
19th / 20th / 21st $145.00
22nd $199.00

Formule 1 (2*)
19th / 20th / 21st $115.00
22nd $169.00

Rates for the Saturday night are higher due to the Bledisloe Cup
being played at ANZ Stadium (next to Acer) that night.

AIRFARES

Current best airfares based on in Wednesday evening, out Sunday morning
are as follows (comparison between Qantas and Virgin)

From Brisbane:
Virgin
DJ 986 19AUG BNE SYD 1900 2030
DJ 943 23AUG SYD BNE 1300 1430
Fare: $147.00 return (assuming using check in luggage and incl credit card fee)

From Melbourne
Virgin
DJ 889 19AUG MEL SYD 1945 2110
DJ 834 23AUG SYD MEL 1115 1245
Fare: $160.00 return (assuming using check in luggage and incl credit card fee)

From Adelaide
Virgin
DJ 437 19AUG ADL SYD 1845 2110
DJ 422 23AUG SYD ADL 1345 1530
Fare: $280.00 (assuming using check in luggage and incl credit card fee)

From Perth
Virgin
DJ 570 19AUG PER SYD 1625 2235
DJ 557 23AUG SYD PER 1215 1530
Fare: $440.00 (assuming using check in luggage and incl credit card fee)

Flights are possible for most ports on Saturday following the conclusion of the last session, but some may be tight if intending to have one final network session at the post conference drinks.

And of course as always NO SERVICE FEES apply to any booking

FROM NEW ZEALAND

Auckland fare:
Jetstar
JQ 200 19AUG AKL SYD 0750 0915
JQ 201 23AUG SYD AKL 1000 1500
Fare: $420.02 NZD

Christchurch
Jetstar
JQ 140 19AUG CHC SYD 0635 0800
JQ 143 23AUG SYD CHC 0850 1350
Fare: $439.92 NZD

Wellington
Qantas
QF 048 19AUG WLG SYD 1610 1750
QF 047 23AUG SYD WLG 0845 1400
Fare: $570.50 AUD

AMBC and FILMS - RiP Cinema Screening Dates

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Thanks for your interest in the free music industry screenings of RIP: A REMIX MANIFESTO. If you saw the film, perhaps you'd like to tell friends about it and where they can see it. If you missed it, the cinema release may be a great chance to catch it in comfort and fabulous sound:

City                Sydney
THEATRE   Chauvel
ADDRESS   Paddington Town Hall
                        Cnr Oxford St & Oatley Rd
                        Paddington NSW 2021
PHONE         (02) 9339 0348
START DATE  May 21st
WEB               http://www.chauvelcinema.net.au

CITY             Melbourne
THEATRE   Nova
ADDRESS   380 Lygon Street
                        Carlton VIC 3053
PHONE         (03) 9347 5331
START DATE June 4

CITY             Perth
THEATRE   Luna
ADDRESS   155 Oxford Street
                        Leederville WA 6007
PHONE         (08) 9444 4056
START DATE  June 4
WEB               http://www.lunapalace.com.au

CITY             Hobart
THEATRE   State Cinema
ADDRESS   375 Elizabeth Street
                        North Hobart TAS 7000
PHONE         (03) 6234 6318
START DATE  June 4
WEB               http://www.statecinema.com.au

CITY             Brisbane
THEATRE   Schonell Cinema
ADDRESS   Bld 22/Lvl 2 Union Complex
                        Union Road
                        St Lucia QLD 4072
PHONE         (07) 3377 2988
START DATE  June 4
WEB               http://www.schonell.com

Adelaide and Canberra venues and dates are soon to be announced!

AMBC and FILMS - Brisbane Venue & Date For "RiP: A Remix Manifesto" Music Biz Film & Seminar

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 05:50:00 GMT

A private RSVP music industry screening of the latest controversial music film "RiP--A Remix Manifesto" takes place Tuesday May 19 in a special covered outdoor film venue of Metropolitan South Institute of TAFE, Mt Gravatt Campus. "RiP"'s sole Brisbane screening is the last after Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide & Perth.

The film is restricted to music industry staff and music business students only, not the general public, and RSVPs are necessary (see below). The precise location is the covered walkway between A & F Blocks at 1030 Cavendish Rd with free parking off Cavendish Rd. & Tick St with nearby bus service also available.

Networking drinks start at 5:30, the film screens at 6:30, a special panel of music business experts with audience questions from 8-9:30 on the Future of Music and issues addressed in the film, concludes at 10 pm after more drinks!

There'll also be a giveaway of a $750 VIP 3-day registration for the AustralAsian Music Business Conference Sydney August 20-22 and entry for those attending in a national draw for a VIP delegates pass to South by Southwest Music, Film and Interactive Festivals and Conferences in Austin Texas March 12-21. You have to be present to win. http://www.immedia.com.au/rip

THE FILM 6:30-8:00

In "RiP: A Remix Manifesto", Web activist and filmmaker Brett Gaylor explores issues of music copyright in the information age, mashing up the media landscape of the 20th century and shattering the wall between users and producers. The film's central protagonist is Girl Talk, a mash-up musician topping the charts with his sample-based songs. But is Girl Talk a paragon of people power or the Pied Piper of piracy? Creative Commons founder, Lawrence Lessig, Brazil's Minister of Culture Gilberto Gil and pop culture critic, Cory Doctorow are also along for the ride.

Examining the ambiguity of copyright law throughout the entertainment industry from Walt Disney through the brazen 'borrowing' of the blues via The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin, the Napster Vs Metallica watershed legal feud, The Verve not getting a cent for their biggest single ever, right through the lesser known acts such as Negativland who've felt the legal wrath of those with more power and money than themselves. Ultimately pondering the question - when is art not legally classified as art. Which side of the ideas war are you on? This kinetic, visceral and wildly entertaining and enlightening mixed- media documentary was recently the talk of the SXSW Film Festival and is ruffling corporate feathers the globe over.

View film trailer http://video.sxsw.com/2009/mov/rip_a_remix_manifesto.mov and more info at http://www3.nfb.ca/webextension/rip-a-remix-manifesto/

THE PANEL DISCUSSION ON THE FUTURE OF MUSIC--8:00-9:30

Panelists: Paul Paioliello--CEO Mercury Mobility; Rick Chazan--Manager of The Boat People; Lars Brandle--AustralAsian Editor Billboard Magazine; Steve Bell Editor of Time Off; moderated by Phil Tripp, Managing Partner IMMEDIA! & SxSW Representative.

The seminar is directed at the issues of two events that IMMEDIA! is promoting over the coming months. The first is the AustralAsian Music Business Conference (http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc) that will be held in Sydney August 20-22 with over 50 speakers and which is the largest most successful music industry event for the pat 18 years, held every other year. The panel gives a compelling sample of the content and issues to be discussed at the AMBC.

The second area being discussed is the 2010 South by Southwest Music, Film & Interactive Festivals (http://www.sxsw.com) being held in Austin. Texas in March which will open for artist showcase submissions August 3 as well as film applications. Comprising over 1800 showcases, hundreds of panels and speakers as well as major trade fairs and stands, SxSW has become a vital marketing and networking global event for the Australian content industries. For those wanting to attend either or both industry events, this seminar will be crucial to strategising participation and maximising outcomes. The AMBC in Sydney will have room for 660 attendees with registrations already started while SxSW had over 50 AustralAsian bands perform last month and more than 240 attendees from our part of the world among over 25,000 global registrants.

TO RESERVE A SPACE

The showings are limited to music industry professionals and workers as well as music business course students, but NOT for the general public. Seats can be reserved and proof of music credentials will be required due to the limited license for one off free showing in each city venue.

For reservations and further information, contact IMMEDIA! on (02) 9557 7766 (Jessica Kalucy) or email jessica@immedia.com.au to reserve a place. Those reserving places must be in the venue 30 minutes prior to 6:30 showtime or their reservation will be voided and space allocated to others.

AMBC and FILMS - New Panelists for RiP Screening Melbourne, and more panelists announced

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

We were able to secure John Course of Vicious as our artist/entrepreneur speaker in the dance field for our Melbourne panel following "RiP: A Remix Manifesto which now consists of five panelists as below.

Melbourne Tuesday April 28 at The Corner Hotel opens at 5:30, film 6:30, panel 8 pm 57 Swan Street Richmond VIC

Panelists: Marcus Seal--CEO Shock Entertainment Group; Marianna Annas--Music Industry Piracy Investigations General Manager; Andrew Murfett--Music Writer for The Age; Craig Treweek--Publisher of Inpress; John Course DJ, Producer and Director A&R for Vicious; presented & moderated by Phil Tripp, MD IMMEDIA! & SxSW Representative

Website is at http://www.immedia.com.au/rip

AMBC - New AMBC Speakers Announced: Jeff Price, Tim Levinson and Gregg Donovan

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

New Speakers Announced:

Jeff Price--Founder CEO TuneCore President / GM / Co-Founder spinART Records.

Tim Levinson--The hip hop artist known as Urthboy, MC for The Herd, he also the founding member of independent label Elefant Traks.

Read more at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc.

AMBC and FILMS - Controversial Music Biz Film "RIP: A Remix Manifesto" Free Showings

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

IMMEDIA! Delivers Controversial New Film "RIP: A Remix Manifesto" To Music Industry Limited Free Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth & Brisbane Shows With Panel Discussions

IMMEDIA! is staging free one-off showings of the latest controversial music industry film "RIP--A Remix Manifesto" starting April 27 in five Australian major cities, plus Auckland and Wellington with a five-member industry expert panel discussing the future of music after each showing: www.immedia.com.au/rip.

With an hour for networking drinks before the 90 minute film screens in each venue ( dates & times below), RIP is followed by a ninety minute panel discussion with questions and comments from the audience. The showings are limited to music industry professionals and workers as well as music business course students, but NOT for the general public. Seats can be reserved and proof of music credentials will be required due to the limited license for one off free showing in each city venue.

In "RiP: A Remix Manifesto", Web activist and filmmaker Brett Gaylor explores issues of copyright in the information age, mashing up the media landscape of the 20th century and shattering the wall between users and producers. The film's central protagonist is Girl Talk, a mash-up musician topping the charts with his sample-based songs. But is Girl Talk a paragon of people power or the Pied Piper of piracy? Creative Commons founder, Lawrence Lessig, Brazil's Minister of Culture Gilberto Gil and pop culture critic Cory Doctorow are also along for the ride.

View the film trailer http://video.sxsw.com/2009/mov/rip_a_remix_manifesto.mov and more info at http://www3.nfb.ca/webextension/rip-a-remix-manifesto.

Sydney - Monday April 27 at The Manning Bar opens at 5:30, film 6:30, panel 8 pm, Level 2, Manning House Manning Road University of Sydney NSW
Melbourne - Tuesday April 28 at The Corner Hotel opens at 5:30, film 6:30, panel 8 pm, 57 Swan Street Richmond VIC
Adelaide - Wednesday April 29 at Fowlers Live opens at 5:30, film 6:30, panel 8 pm, 68 North Tce, Adelaide. Across from "City Sk8"
Perth - Saturday May 9 at The Rosemount Hotel opens 1 pm, film 2 pm, panel 3:30, 459 Fitzgerald Street North Perth WA
Brisbane - TBC A Brisbane date will be announced next week along with speakers on the panels in each city.

For reservations and further information, contact Jessica Kalucy on jessica@immedia.com.au or (02) 9557 7766 to reserve a place. Those reserving places must be in the venue 30 minutes prior to showtime or their reservation will be voided and space allocated to others.

The seminars are directed at the issues of two events that IMMEDIA! is promoting over the coming months. The first is the AustralAsian Music Business Conference (http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc) that will be held in Sydney August 20-22 with over 50 speakers and which is the largest most successful music industry event for the pat 18 years, held every other year. The panel gives a compelling sample of the content and issues to be discussed at the AMBC.

The second area being discussed is the 2010 South by Southwest Music, Film & Interactive Festivals (http://www.sxsw.com) being held in Austin. Texas in March which will open for artist showcase submissions August 3 as well as film applications. Comprising over 1800 showcases, hundreds of panels and speakers as well as major trade fairs and stands, SxSW has become a vital marketing and networking global event for the Australian content industries.

For those wanting to attend either or both industry events, this seminar will be crucial to strategising participation and maximising outcomes. The AMBC in Sydney will have room for 660 attendees with registrations already started while SxSW had over 50 AustralAsian bands perform last month and more than 240 attendees from our part of the world among over 25,000 global registrants.

For further media info, logos, photos or interviews, contact Jessica Kalucy at IMMEDIA! (jessica@immedia.com.au) or phone (02 9557 7766)

IMMEDIA! - 42nd AustralAsian Music Industry Directory, March Edition--OUT NOW!

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

SXSW and FILMS - Overseas Trip to Success for Seven Australian Film Makers Kick-Started by Australian Government Grant

Sun, 15 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Seven Australian independent film makers have received a major grant from the Australian government to assist in the promotion, publicity, marketing and on the ground presence at one of the world's top film events--the South by Southwest Film Festival and Conference in Austin, Texas March 13-22.

A $20,000 one-off grant from the Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade, administered through peak film body Screen Australia, has given the film creators a stand at the SxSW Film Trade Fair, advertising to the trade and films fans in Austin during multiple showings of their films as well as travel assistance to meet with key industry figures at this crucial event. A media campaign with publicists has also started in the lead up to SxSW,

It's the first time that the Federal Government has gotten behind Australian films at this 16 year event that will showcase over 120 features and documentaries and more than 150 shorts, experimental, animated and music video productions. The six Australian films and one short are:

* THE SQUARE-Written by Joel Edgerton & Matthew Dabner, Directed by Nash Edgerton
* THREE BLIND MICE-Written & Directed by Matthew Newton
* RATS AND CATS-Written by Jason Gann & Adam Zwar, Directed by Tony Rogers
* LAKE MUNGO-Written & Directed by Joel Anderson
* INTANGIBLE ASSET NUMBER 82-Written & Directed by Emma Franz
* THE HORSEMAN-Written & Directed by Steven Kastrissios
* Short: CHILDREN OF THE ECLIPSE-Produced by Nick Heydon

It's the fifth year that SxSW Film has had a significant Australian 'sidebar event' showcase which have included films as diverse as "Kenny" (Regional Premiere), Black Sheep (US Premiere) and "The Devil Made Me Do" (World Premiere) most recently, and in previous years "Puppy", "Somersault", "Thunderstruck", "Josh Jarman", "Alexandra's Project," "Black and White", "Undead" and "Welcome to the Waks Family".

Sydney-based SxSW Australian representative Phil Tripp reveals the strategy for the Australian presence at SxSW Film as mirroring what the music industry has done over the past seven years with the assistance of AUSTRADE, the Australia Council for the Arts and state-based peak music bodies such as WAM & MusicNSW.

"Australian culture is an export commodity but unlike coal, woodchips, uranium or steel, it is a renewable one with music and film creators coming up with new products or 'creativity crops' for local and overseas markets each year or so. Screen Australia and DFAT have invested in taking the creators to the market and also marketing their talents to the 7000 overseas film industry professionals who attend through a Discoveries From Down Under promotional stand, a publicity campaign to media and advertising in key event publications."

"In 2002, there were only five bands and 20 AustralAsian delegates that attended SxSW Music Festival and Conference, but with AUSTRADE resources for stand, advertising and promotion over that event, the presence doubled each year so that in 2009 70 Australian and New Zealand bands were invited, of which 30 OZ &15 NZ artists will showcase with over 240 delegates from both countries on top of the 200+ band and crew members. Now, after the film industry and government observing those outcomes for five years through various administrations, Screen Australia and DFAT have taken the ball and are running hard to emulate the success. With multiple showings of the homegrown productions, we're projecting a world-class image to the industry."

The SXSW FILM CONFERENCE & FESTIVAL (http://www.sxsw.com/film) started as an annual event in 1994 and explores all aspects of the art and business of independent filmmaking. The Conference hosts a five-day adventure in the latest filmmaking trends and new technology, featuring distinguished speakers and mentors. The internationally-acclaimed, nine-day Festival boasts some of the most wide-ranging programming of any US event of its kind, from provocative documentaries to subversive Hollywood comedies, with a special focus on emerging talents. http://www.sxsw.com/film For further information, images or interviews, contact Jess Kalucy at IMMEDIA! jessica@immedia.com.au (02) 9557 7766 or international 61-2-9557 7766.

UA - Urban Animal Issue 18, February 15th, 2009 -- OUT NOW!

Sat, 14 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

SXSW - Government & Music Biz Send Largest Number of Aussie Bands Ever to USA In One Place

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The 31 artists from all over Australia headed to Austin March 18-22 not only represent the largest number of homegrown artists in one country at any time, it's also the result of major Federal and State government investment in music as an export commodity, not just a cultural one. The number of bands and over 200 delegates going to South by Southwest Music Festival represents a ten-fold increase in seven years.

This year, over 50 Australian artists were invited to showcase and the 31 below represent the ones who have committed to play their official shows as well as the annual Australian BBQ (20), a day long series of shows at a major venue Thursday (19) and extra shows in Los Angeles and New York either side of SxSW.

The artists, their websites and contacts for music, bios and images are:

Gabriella Cilmi - www.gabriellacilmi.com - cassandra@crownmanagement.co.uk
Anthony Snape - www.anthonysnape.com - management@anthonysnape.com
Josh Pyke - www.joshpyke.com - gregg@wonderlick.com.au
The Resignators - www.myspace.com/theresignators - management@theresignators.com
The Fumes - www.thefumes.com.au - tracey@kickmusic.com.au
My Disco - www.mydisco.com.au - info@mydisco.com.au
Hell City Glamours - www.hellcityglamours.com - mgmt@hellcityglamours.com
Birds Of Tokyo - www.birdsoftokyo.com - ross@birdsoftokyo.com
The Boat People - www.theboaties.com - ideasm@bigpond.net.au
The Temper Trap - www.myspace.com/thetempertrap - danny@lunaticentertainment.com
Kid Confucius - www.kidconfucius.com - julia@brightonboulevard.com
Dappled Cities - www.dappledcitiesfly.com - tbarrott@hubartistservices.com
Andy Bull - www.andybull.com.au - julia@brightonboulevard.com
The Hot Kicks - www.myspace.com/thehotkicks band@thehotkicks.com
Red Riders - www.myspace.com/redridersmusic - mel@meiyugroup.com
Blue King Brown - www.bluekingbrown.com - john@guerrillamgmt.com
The Drones - www.thedrones.com.au - bill@onelouder.com.au
Youth Group - www.youthgroup.com.au - kirsty@wgman.com
Naked On the Vague - www.myspace.com/nakedonthevague - nakedonthevague@yahoo.com
The Grates - www.thegrates.com - rachael@secret-service.com.au
Angus & Julia Stone - www.angusandjuliastone.com - cathy@originalmatters.com
Kara Grainger - www.karagrainger.com - lara@cravingrecords.com
Loene Carmen - www.myspace.com/loenecarmensrocknrolltears - info@loenecarmen.com.au
Infusion - www.myspace.com/infusion - xavier.asha@gmail.com
Lenka - www.lenkamusic.com - joehegleman@ronshapiro.com
An Horse - www.myspace.com/anhorse - bobbie@bighassle.com - nadiamizner@gmail.com
Closure In Moscow - www.myspace.com/closureinmoscow - andrew@runmgmt.com
Miami Horror - www.myspace.com/miamihorror - jerry@staple.com.au
The Lovetones - www.thelovetones.com - thelovetones@hotmail.com
Andy White - www.andywhite.com - dirtmusic@optusnet.com.au
The Kin - www.thekin.com - gboulware@samanagement.com

The bands above can be contacted about their showcases and other gigs directly as well as to obtain any sound files, recordings, images or other information.

After six years of logistical and funding support from the Australian Trade Commission (AUSTRADE) which grew the presence at SxSW phenomenally and led to many successes, it's joined with the Australia Council for the Arts, AustralAsian Performing Right Association (APRA) and various state music industry bodies in a new brand promoting Australian music overseas called 'Sounds Australia'. They'll present new events and a stand at SxSW as outlined at the bottom. But first, the long running Stagemothers centrepiece Aussie BBQ!

THE AUSSIE BBQ 2009 at SxSW 12.00 noon-7.30pm Friday 20th March 2009
Brush Square Park, Austin Texas (opposite the Austin Convention Centre)
featuring 12 acts including:
The Drones, Youth Group, Gabriella Cilmi, The Grates, Birds of Tokyo, Josh Pyke, Temper Trap, My Disco, Infusion, The Fumes, The Boat People, and The Red Riders

Invite only industry showcase Free food & drinks
*All guest list requests / rsvps must be emailed to theaussiebbq@gmail.com

LOS ANGELES showcase Sunday 15th March 2009 from 2pm - 9pm
The Echo 1822 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles Phone: (213) 413-8200.
featuring:
My Disco, The Drones (TBC), Dappled Cities Fly, The Red Riders, The Fumes, The Boat People, Loene Carmen, The Art (formerly The Follow), Hell City Glamours

Industry & media guest list (marycode@ozemail.com.au) / open to the public.
Tickets will be available at the door for $12.
Entry includes free Australian style BBQ and complimentary beverage (subject to management)

NEW YORK showcase Thursday 26th March 2009 6pm - 1am
at The Bell House 149 7th Street (between 2nd & 3rd Avenue in Park Slope) Brooklyn, Phone: (718) 643 6510
featuring:
Youth Group, The Grates, Infusion, The Red Riders, The Fumes, The Boat People, The Art (formerly The Follow), The Resignators

Industry & media guest list (marycode@ozemail.com.au) / open to the public.
Tickets will be available at the door for $12.
Entry includes free Australian style BBQ and a complimentary beverage.

SOUNDS AUSTRALIA @ SXSW 2009
For further info contact Millie Millgate mmillgate@apra.com.au / +61 410 306 557
Sounds Australia is a collective of interested parties made up of Government Agencies, Industry Associations, Commercial Companies and others with a genuine interest in working together, all partnering to support Australians' export activities in key markets. During SXSW Sounds Australia will be presenting a number of opportunities to meet the Australians and to experience the incredible talent on show this year.

Wednesday 18th March Opening Night Party @ Lucky Lounge, 209 A, West 5th Street
Homegrown Djs, Aussies and great wine! Kick off your SXSW experience by meeting the Australians as they gather together at Lucky Lounge to plan their sound assault on Austin. Keep an eye on whothehell.net for line-up details.

Thursday 19th March Sounds Australia House @ FRIENDS, 208 E, 6th Street
Sounds Australia House will present a full day party and stellar evening program, showcasing only premier Australian talent. It will also host a networking breakfast for Australian delegates to meet with key industry, including promoters, agents and music supervisors from around the globe.

Wednesday 18th March - Friday 20th March Sounds Australia Stand @ Convention Centre, Music Trade Show
Our experts are on hand to field questions, so drop by and learn everything there is to know about the Australian music market, events and industry.

Thursday 19th, Friday 20th, Saturday 20st March - Noon to 2pm @ Whole Foods Market, 525 N. Lamar Blvd. (at 6th St.)
In it's 3rd year, the "Aussie Tastes & Tunes" promotion features two great Aussie traditions - music and food! At the famous flagship Whole Foods Market, a wide-range of great Aussie artists perform stripped sets over 3 days in a unique daytime setting.

SXSW - New State Of Music For World's Most Prestigious Music Festival--Hawai'i @ SxSW

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

New State Of Music For World's Most Prestigious Music Festival--Hawai'i @ SxSW

In its 50th year as America's 50th state, the islands of Hawai'i have often been thought of as another country by some US citizens and media pundits--until Barack Obama came along and put it on the map in its rightful place. Similarly, the music of this paradise has traditionally been perceived as hula dances, falsetto singing, ukuleles and soft guitars, but the coming appearance in March of five diverse contemporary music artists of Hawai'i at South by Southwest Music Festival in Austin will create a new awareness and appreciation of fresh, young and modern music styles that have evolved from their vibrant culture.

The five artists of the first major Hawai'i SxSW showcases March 18-22 are:

John Cruz -- http://www.johncruz.com Top live draw in national tours, 2008 Contemporary Album of the Year & a Grammy

Anuhea -- http://www.myspace.com/anuheajams Maui's songbird of soul, R&B, Jazz, Blues & Pop; album debut 'Anuhea' in March

One Right Turn -- http://www.onerightturn.com
Alt-rock pop musical family affair with a 4-CD box set of band & 3 solo albums

David Tamaoka -- http://www.myspace.com/davidtamaoka Oahu-based singer songwriter, BMI award winner, with new album 'Canefield Hero'

Pimpbot -- http://www.myspace.com/pimpbot Honolulu ska/punk underground, DIY, heroes; infectious album "Admit One" out now

These five artists of Hawai'i made the cut from over 10,500 submission for showcasing from around the world with only 1800 playing in 80 venues over four nights in official slots to audiences of 15,000 delegates. But SxSW in its 23rd year also has a wealth daytime parties and special events for them to play as well as a Trade Show where the music industry of Hawai'i has booked a major stand presence to promote the artists, record labels and other music businesses.

After five years of discussions, export strategies and aiming for the right time and artists, 2009 has brought together the music industry of Hawai'i and the Government of Hawai'i in a dynamic, united campaign. Its a crucial event for artists, labels and music businesses to break through to overseas territories as well as the US Mainland via SxSW. A major trade fair stand, extensive advertising and promotions, a series of extra live shows at two key venues and an online Hawai'i Music Directory are key facets of this strategy, with more to be announced in coming weeks as well as dates and venues for all performances.

For images, photos, bios, recordings and other aspects, contact Phil Tripp
E: tripp@immedia.com.au Phone (based in Sydney, Australia) 61 2 955 777 66

Hawai'i Music Directory http://www.immedia.com.au/hawaii debuts March 1

SXSW - 32 Aussie Bands Makes The Most Ever In One Place Overseas At One Time

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

We're happy to announce the largest number of Australian bands ever in one place overseas, which are the 32 artists who accept their invitations to showcase at the world's largest and most prestigious music festival & conference. They play in Austin Texas March 18-22 at South by Southwest Music Festival & Conferences and will be accompanied by more than 250 Australian business delegates.

Out of a total of 52 artists invited to play from Australia, 20 had to drop out so this should be the final list. More then 240 Australian artists applied for the 1800 showcase slots in 70 venues, over 10,500 applied from around the world.

SXSW 2009 AUSTRALIAN ARTISTS SHOWCASING
Anthony Snape, Sydney, NSW
Josh Pyke, Sydney, NSW
The Resignators, Melbourne, Vic
The Fumes, Sydney, NSW
My Disco, Melbourne, VIC
Hell City Glamours, Sydney, NSW
Birds Of Tokyo, Brunswick, VIC
The Boat People, Brisbane, QLD
The Temper Trap, Nth Fitzroy, VIC
Kid Confucius, Sydney, NSW
Dappled Cities, Sydney, NSW
Andy Bull, Sydney, NSW
The Chevelles, Perth, WA
The Hot Kicks, Melbourne, VIC
Red Riders, Sydney, NSW
Blue King Brown, Melbourne, VIC
The Drones, Melbourne, VIC
Youth Group, Newtown, NSW
Naked On the Vague, Sydney, NSW
The Grates, Brisbane, QLD
Andy White, Melbourne, VIC
Angus & Julia Stone, Sydney, NSW
Kara Grainger, Sydney, NSW
Loene Carmen, Sydney, NSW
Infusion, Melbourne, VIC
Lenka, Sydney, NSW
An Horse, Brisbane, QLD
Closure In Moscow, Melbourne, NSW
Miami Horror, Melbourne, VIC
The Lovetones, Sydney, NSW
The Kin, Adelaide, SA
Gabriella Cilmi, Dandenong, VIC

In addition to their official individual evening showcase slots, The Aussie BBQ in its sixth year has already announced ten of their 12 artists to play a seven hour long Friday afternoon tent show in Brush Park with free food and drink.

Josh Pyke
Birds of Tokyo
The Drones
Youth Group
Boat People
Temper Trap
Red Rider
My Disco
The Fumes
The Grates

Stage Mothers, the producers of the Aussie BBQ (voted the best party of SxSW for 2007 and 2008) will also hold two events in Los Angeles & New York. Sunday March 15th is an all day Aussie BBQ event at The Echo, while in New York March 26 it's a free Aussie BBQ from 6 pm to 1 am at The Bell House.

On Thursday March 19 all day is the 'Australian Music Consulate' at Friends on 6th Street in Austin featuring a broad range of the 33 bands above. It's produced by SoundsAustralia, the music industry's peak export body incorporating Austrade, Australia Council For The Arts, Australian Music Industry Network and APRA among others.

From noon to 2 pm, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday March 18-20 are three Australian artists with 'Aussie Tastes & Tunes' including sampling of food and wine at the largest organic supermarket in the world--Whole Foods Markets.

SXSW and FILMS - Seven Australian films chosen for South By Southwest from 60 submitted

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

In its 16th year, the South by Southwest Film Conference & Festival is pleased to announce seven films chosen from 60 submitted by Australian filmmakers for the prestigious film event in Austin, Texas March 13-21. The six features and one short, which will have multiple showings in a special 'Discoveries from Down Under' series are:

LAKE MUNGO-Written and Directed by Joel Anderson
THE SQUARE-Written by Joel Edgerton and Matthew Dabner, Directed by Nash Edgerton
THREE BLIND MICE-Written and Directed by Matthew Newton
RATS AND CATS-Written by Jason Gann and Adam Zwar, Directed by Tony Rogers
INTANGIBLE ASSET NUMBER 82-Written and Directed by Emma Franz
THE HORSEMAN-Written and Directed by Steven Kastrissios
CHILDREN OF THE ECLIPSE-Produced by Nick Heydon

It's the fifth year that SxSW Film has had a significant Australian 'sidebar event' showcase which have included films as diverse as "Kenny" (Regional Premiere), Black Sheep (US Premiere) and "The Devil Made Me Do" (World Premiere) most recently, and in previous years "Puppy", "Somersault", "Thunderstruck", "Josh Jarman", "Alexandra's Project," "Black and White", "Undead" and "Welcome to the Waks Family".

The SXSW FILM CONFERENCE & FESTIVAL (http://www.sxsw.com/film) started as an annual event in 1994 and explores all aspects of the art and business of independent filmmaking. The Conference hosts a five-day adventure in the latest filmmaking trends and new technology, featuring distinguished speakers and mentors. The internationally-acclaimed, nine-day Festival boasts some of the most wide-ranging programming of any US event of its kind, from provocative documentaries to subversive Hollywood comedies, with a special focus on emerging talents.

SXSW is ranked #6 on the list of the top 10 film festivals in the world in Chris Gore's recently released Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide (3rd Edition). In addition, SXSW is listed as the #2 U.S. film festival for American independents. It attracts close to 7000 film professionals and 875 media from 47 countries.

For further details, contact Phil Tripp--SxSW Regional Representative in Sydney
(02) 9557 7766 tripp@sxsw.com

AMBC and SXSW - Perth Music Pro Wins Trip to South by Southwest

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

She was one of 85 Early-Early Bird registrants for the AustralAsian Music Business Conference who had the opportunity to answer two simple questions. Even though her entry was last minute, Ali McLean of Mellen Events in Perth won a roundtrip airfare to South by Southwest Music, Film & Interactive Festivals and a VIP Platinum pass to all three events. On top of that, she was given a free position on the SoundsAustralia stand during the Music Trade Fair and will have to put up with Phil Tripp for a Mexican dinner. Total value $4000!

The two questions Ali answered were easy: Who's the official SxSW travel agent? (Brad Thomas of The Travel Managers who contributed the $2500 Perth to Austin return airfare with stopover in Los Angeles) and in 50 words or less, give a compelling reason why she should win the prize over the other 84 entrants.

Her answer? "I aim to establish a touring festival featuring international and Australian artists that tours throughout AustralAsia. I have a BA Asian Studies and BA Arts Management plus speak Japanese and Indonesian. SXSW will allow me to network with festival promoters through Asia & be across breaking artists."

AMBC - 2009 AustralAsian Music Business Conference--New Speakers and Topics Announced

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Today we confirmed our 21st speaker out of 50+ who will be featured at our 9th AustralAsian Music Business Conference, August 20-22. Before you come back from holidays January 5, we'll have closed the chance to win a round-trip from Sydney to Austin, Texas, for a VIP Pass to South by Southwest Music, Film and Interactive Conferences, a place on the Australian stand and dinner with Phil.

If you want to enter that competition, and be 1 of 100, go here before January 1: http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc/register/index.php Our Early Early Bird rates will close December 31 with the competition.

So you know, here are the 11 new speakers we are announcing on top of our original 10, as well as details of 2 confirmed panels out of 9.

* Keynote #2 He's just confirming flights and other details so we can't name him until next week, but he is one of the biggest talent scouts in the US, has never been to Australia before, arguably exposed more artists to the industry than anyone else and is a killer speaker who'll tell how to break through to the US.

* Michael Smellie--Our 8th AMBC opening keynoter, formerly world COO for Sony/BMG, Asia Pacific head of BMG, and MD of Polygram and rooArt in Australia

* Sebastian Chase--CEO of leading indie distributor MGM Distribution, he's also been an artist manager, label owner and music industry visionary

* Richard Mallett--APRA Director, Recordings & Online Services and one of the leading authorities on mobile and Internet delivery of music

* Catherine Haridy--Manager of Eskimo Joe and former A&R head of Festival / Mushroom Records

* Dan Hennessy--Aloha Management principal (Faker, Cog, Shihad, Sparkadia) and former A&R head of Warner Music

* Brett Oaten--One of our top music business lawyers and probably the funniest!

* Paul Paoliello--CEO of Mercury Mobility, mobile music industry leaders, and former Managing Director of Zomba Records in Australia

* Christie Eliezer--Australia's top music business writer with columns in Beat, Brag, dB, Rave

* Marianna Annas--General Manager, Music Industry Piracy Investigations (MIPI) and longtime Business Affairs Manager for major labels here and overseas

* Damian Trotter--Managing Director of Sony/ATV, one of the largest and most progressive music publishers. He's championed songwriters for over two decades

In February we'll be announcing another ten speakers and four panels at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc/ but here are the two panels we can confirm now.

THE FUTURE OF THE MUSIC INDUSTRY: We are assembling some of the brightest minds within and outside the music industry to predict what the future business models will be, how the industry will evolve and what earning potentials will emerge. Moderated by Christie Eliezer, the first panelists are industry leaders Shaun James, Michael Smellie and Sebastian Chase, with more to follow, including a major artist, a rabid music consumer, a government official and some surprises.

YOU'LL NEVER WORK IN THIS INDUSTRY AGAIN... Maybe: There are visionaries, entrepreneurs, promoters, technologists, marketers and other brave music business leaders who have built mighty vehicles, flown high, crashed in flames and emerged from the ashes to take off again. You'll learn from their adversity and failure and be inspired by their survival and courage.

Register now online at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc/ and get the lowest price for all three days, 50+ speakers, nine panels, massive showbag and the two nights of awards shows:

* THE AUSTRALIAN ONLINE MUSIC AWARDS--The ONYA!s return to honour innovation and excellence in the delivery and marketing of digitally delivered music.

* THE AUSTRALIAN MOBILE MUSIC AWARDS--The Phone-E$, as we have dubbed them, will also honour excellence and innovation in delivery of wireless music content.

The ONYA! Awards will be held Thursday night, August 20, at ACER Arena's Grand Ballroom, with live performances webcast and broadcast following three months of consumer voting online and an industry panel determining peer gongs.

The Phone-E$ Awards will be held Friday night, August 21, in ACER Arena's Grand Ballroom, with more performers webcast, mobicast and broadcast live following three months of consumer voting via SMS, online and the industry peer gongs.

SXSW - 68 Australian and New Zealand Bands Invited to Showcase at South By Southwest

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Largest Contingent Ever Set to Invade US, 34 Accepted Invites So Far

With 48 Australian and 20 New Zealand bands invited so far to play the 23rd South by Southwest Music Festival March 18-22 in Austin Texas, 16 more acts this week have accepted showcase slots in addition to the 18 artists artists announced a fortnight ago. We are only announcing artists which have accepted, not all of the ones that are invited and this is done with artist permission.

AUSTRALIAN NEW ADDITIONS ACCEPTED
Dappled Cities
Resignators
Youth Group
Closure In Moscow
An Horse
Loene Carmen
Paris Wells
Kid Confucius
Red Riders
The Kin

NEW NEW ZEALAND ADDITIONS
The Tutts
The Brunettes
Connan Mockasin
Jackie Bristow
Ross Royce
Bionic Pixie

AUSTRALIAN PREVIOUSLY INVITED & ACCEPTED
Blue King Brown
Anthony Snape
The Boat People
The Fumes
The Chevelles
Birds of Tokyo
The Drones
Infusion
Josh Pyke
Angus and Julia Stone
Naked On The Vague
Andy Bull
My Disco
The Temper Trap
The Grates

NEW ZEALAND PREVIOUS ACCEPTANCES
Elemeno P
Midnight Youth
Kylie Harris

The 68 invited artists is the largest ever from the two countries, up from only five in 2002. With only eight of the invited artists having had to turn down their invitations so far this year due to scheduling, visa or finance issues, it looks to be biggest Antipodean invasion of the US ever.

All up, 9957 artists applied to showcase this year for 1800 slots in 70 venues over five nights. Australian and New Zealand artists comprised over 250 of these submissions. About 2500 were from outside the US and to date, 1450 invitations have been issued, 800 of them international. Over 250 paid delegates aside from bands and support crew are expected to attend and do business with over 120 already registered including labels, promoters, agents, managers & publishers.

Despite the economic crisis, a number of resources have been offered for bands heading over including two sets of grants from the Australia Council, state funding from West Australia, New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria through their Arts councils and Austrade's continuing stand presence at the trade fair, advance promotion and publicity for Austin based events. These include the Australian BBQ with up to a dozen acts playing a private party for music business luminaries, a series of lunchtime concerts at the mammoth Whole Foods Market, an opening night party for the Australian contingent and guests plus other programs including a pre-SxSW teleconference 'Boot Camp' to be announced.

For further info, contact Phil Tripp SxSW representative Australia & New Zealand
tripp@sxsw.com or (02) 9577 7766

For information on the world's largest, most prestigious music festival, conference & trade fair, go to
http://www.sxsw.com and http://www.themusic.com.au/sxsw

AMBC - AMBC Music Conference Opens For Regos And South By Southwest Contest

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

You could win a round trip to South by Southwest in a contest starting now if you're one of our first 100 AMBC registrants signed up before January 1!

We've just opened our site for Early-Early Bird registrations for the 2009, 9th AustralAsian Music Business Conference which happens in Sydney, August 20-22, at Acer Arena Grand Ballroom. We'll have 50+ speakers, 9 seminars & 6 keynotes. Our first 10 great speakers are up at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc and we will announce another dozen after the Early Bird Rates close on January 1.

The AMBC conference will be dealing with all areas of the future of the music and entertainment software business, including digital distribution and downloading; mobile content, branding; music use in film, TV, games, advertising and other applications; subscription paradigms; online music technology; music marketing; live music promotion and many more DIY topics.

Specific seminar topics and agendas as well as speaker allocations on the days will be available after January 15, when daily, two-day and three-day rates are announced. This Early-Early Bird rate is for all three days only.

EARLY-EARLY BIRD RATE--Limited to 100 people registered before January 1.

Our lowest rate of $385 for all three days is only valid for the first 100 who register and pay online at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc/register.

We already have over 25 people pre-registered through our Velvet Rope program, available to previous attendees of AMBC and industry insiders, but all registrations must be prepaid to be valid and only the first 100 will be in a contest to get to Austin, Texas, for 2009's South by Southwest Music, Film & Interactive Festivals and Conferences, including airfare from Sydney and a VIP Platinum Delegate badge.

WANNA BE FLOWN TO SOUTH BY SOUTHWEST & BE A VIP DELEGATE? It's easy!!!

When you register and pay to attend our 9th AMBC (first 100 only by January 1), you will be asked two questions to fill in online:

1. Who is the official travel agency for Australia & NZ to SxSW?
2. In 50 words or less, give a compelling argument as to why you should be the one to get the return trip to Austin's SxSW on March 13-22, instead of the other 99.

Provided you get the first question correct, noted music business writer Christie Eliezer will read all written submissions that qualify (without knowing who is the author) and will judge the winner solely on their persuasive argument. His decision is final. It'll be announced January 10, once the winner is notified.

REGISTRATION RULES:
Early-Early Bird registrations are on a first-come basis and end January 1.
Registrations can't be 'held', 'reserved' or 'laid by' & must be paid in full to be eligible for the lowest rate and entry into the SxSW competition.
Registrations cannot be cancelled, refunded or transferred for any reason.

SXSW CONTEST RULES
Winner will receive one round-trip airfare from Sydney to Austin, Texas, booked by Brad Thomas of TravelManagers, valid for travel between March 1 and April 1, 2009, or any time in between, subject to flight availability, to the maximum value of A$2500. One stopover is permitted on the trip between Sydney/LAX/Austin and any side trips or extra flights are the responsibility of the winner. Once ticketed, it is not changeable without penalties or cancellation that may be invoked by the airline and shall be the sole responsibility of the winner. This ticket is for the sole use of the winner and may not be transferred, sold, bartered or cashed in.

The winner will also receive one VIP Laminate badge for any or all of SxSW's three Festivals and Conferences--Film (March 13-22), Interactive (March 13-17) and/or Music (March 18-22). The value of this is US$1145. It is for the sole use of the winner and may not be transferred, sold, bartered or cashed in. Hotels and transfers are not included, but a slap-up Mexican or Texas BBQ feast with margaritas and beers is included during the SxSW Week 2009, March 13-22.

So there you have it! You can see how the AMBC has been the most successful and longest running series of music industry seminars by checking out our previous years' events at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc/past.php including topics, panels, speakers, photos, bios and even podcasts.

Be aware that we choose our own speakers and to eliminate 'infomercials', 'resume recitals', self- promotion of panelists or other sharing of brilliance, we have an ironclad rule: "Those Who Ask To Speak Are Automatically Disqualified!"
So please do not put yourself forward as a potential panelist in the hope of getting a free ticket or exposure. If we want you, we'll know and we'll call.

Email AMBC Convenor Phil Tripp with any questions at tripp@immedia.com.au or call (02) 9557 7766

SXSW - 17 OZ & NZ Artists Revealed of 40 Invited to SxSW So Far

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

40 Invited So Far, More than 60 Will be Invited by December 1

With over 40 Australian and New Zealand bands invited so far to play the 23rd South by Southwest Music Festival March 18-22 in Austin Texas, we can finally reveal the first 17 acts that accepted their showcase invites. They include:

AUSTRALIA
Andy Bull
Angus and Julia Stone
Anthony Snape
Birds of Tokyo
Blue King Brown
The Boat People
The Chevelles
The Drones
The Fumes
Infusion
Josh Pyke
The Kin
My Disco
Naked On The Vague
The Temper Trap

NEW ZEALAND
Elemeno P
Kylie Harris
Midnight Youth

All up, close to 10,000 artists applied to showcase this year for 1800 slots in 70 venues over five nights. About 2500 were from outside the US and to date, 750 invitations have been issued with most of the remainder to be confirmed by December 1. Australian and New Zealand artists comprised over 250 of these submissions and based on past invitation numbers and the high quality of the OZ/NZ artists, more than 60 invitations are likely to be made. Over 250 paid delegates aside from bands and support crew are expected to attend and do business with over 100 already registered.

Despite the economic crisis, a number of resources have been offered for bands heading over including two sets of grants from the Australia Council, state funding from West Australia, New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria through their Arts councils and Austrade's continuing stand presence at the trade fair, advance promotion and publicity for Austin based events. These include the Australian BBQ with up to a dozen acts playing a private party for music business luminaries, a series of lunchtime concerts at the mammoth Whole Foods Market, an opening night party for the Australian contingent and guests plus other programs including a pre-SxSW teleconference 'Boot Camp' to be announced.

For further info, contact Phil Tripp SxSW representative Australia & New Zealand
tripp@sxsw.com or (02) 9577 7766

For information on the world's largest, most prestigious music festival, conference & trade fair, go to
http://www.sxsw.com and http://www.themusic.com.au/sxsw

AMBC - AMBC Event Announces 10 Speakers & Opens for Regos

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The 9th AustralAsian Music Business Conference announces its first ten major speakers and first keynote for the three-day event which will comprise nine panels, six keynotes and over 50 speakers, August 20-22, 2009 at Acer Arena in Sydney. AMBC is the longest running, largest and most successful music industry conference and fully independent with over 600 attendees projected to attend.

AMBC will open for special Early Early Bird registrations November 20, which will be limited to 100 at the lowest price point and those who take advantage of these Velvet Rope registrations will be entered in a draw for a round trip to South by Southwest in Austin Texas with a full VIP Platinum Pass for the event.

Details will be continuously updated at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc

THE SPEAKERS:

1st Keynote: Jon Satterley--Senior Vice President New Media and Global Business Development for Roadrunner Records in New York, formerly CEO of Roadrunner Records Australia

Shaun James--General Manager Music Channels for XYZ Networks (Channel [V], V2, Max, Country Music Channel); former Chairman & CEO of Warner Music Australia

Karen Farrugia--Market Manager Nokia Music Service; former Mobile & Online Content Manager at Universal Music and MTV Network Digital Strategies

Jeremy Macvean--Head of Digital Strategy for the Austereo Network and formerly Austereo Marketing Director, he came from an advertising background.

Julia Davis--Director New World Artists, a leading booking agency with a unique culture & ethos based on sustaining long term artist careers across many genres.

Marcus Seal--CEO, Shock Entertainment Group, he's a veteran of Festival Mushroom moved to BMG as Marketing Director & Sony BMG International Marketing

Ken Outch--Director Of Commercial Music Sony Music Australia; a digital visionary formerly with Destra, Festival Mushroom, Sanity Music and BMG Music

Sharon Ashworth--Music Marketing Manager Vodafone, she's also worked with Destra in its heyday and a veteran of Festival Mushroom, Shock and EMI.

Keith Welsh--Co-Publisher The Music Network, AMCOS Board Member, partner in publisher Rough Cut Music and owner of Catalyst entertainment consultancy

Georgia Hull--Senior Director New Media and Digital Business Development for Roadrunner Records Australia.

AMBC - First Ten Major Speakers Announced For The 2009 AustralAsian Music Business Conference

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The 9th AustralAsian Music Business Conference announces it first ten major speakers and first keynote for the three day event which will comprise nine panels, six keynotes and over 50 speakers August 20-22 2009 at Acer Arena in Sydney. AMBC is the longest running, largest and most successful music industry conference and fully independent with over 600 attendees projected to attend.

AMBC will open for special Early Early Bird registrations November 20 which will be limited to 100 at the lowest price point and those who take advantage of these Velvet Rope registrations will be entered in a draw for a round trip to South by Southwest in Austin Texas with a full VIP Platinum Pass for the event.

Details will be continuously updated at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc

The Speakers

1st Keynote: Jon Satterley--Senior Vice President New Media and Global Business Development for Roadrunner Records in New York, formerly CEO of Roadrunner Records Australia

Shaun James--General Manager Music Channels for XYZ Networks (Channel [V], V2, Max, Country Music Channel); former Chairman & CEO of Warner Music Australia

Karen Farrugia--Market Manager Nokia Music Service; former Mobile & Online Content Manager at Universal Music and MTV Network Digital Strategies

Jeremy Macvean--Head of Digital Strategy for the Austereo Network and formerly Austereo Marketing Director, he came from an advertising background.

Julia Davis--Director New World Artists, a leading booking agency with a unique culture & ethos based on sustaining long term artist careers across many genres.

Marcus Seal--CEO, Shock Entertainment Group, he's a veteran of Festival Mushroom moved to BMG as Marketing Director & Sony BMG International Marketing

Ken Outch--Director Of Commercial Music Sony Music Australia; a digital visionary formerly with Destra, Festival Mushroom, Sanity Music and BMG Music

Sharon Ashworth--Music Marketing Manager Vodafone, she's also worked with Destra in its heyday and a veteran of Festival Mushroom, Shock and EMI.

Keith Welsh--Co-Publisher The Music Network, AMCOS Board Member, partner in publisher Rough Cut Music and owner of Catalyst entertainment consultancy

Georgia Hull--Senior Director New Media and Digital Business Development for Roadrunner Records Australia.

IMMEDIA! - Directory Listing Forms Now Available for March 2009 Edition

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

SXSW - Next Wave of 27 Australian and New Zealand Bands Set to Invade Top US Festival

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

As the submission deadline closed last week for playing showcases at South by Southwest Music Festival, March 18-22 in Austin Texas, the gate opened for the first group of artists who have been invited to play the world's largest and most prestigious music event with 22 Australian and five New Zealand artists among the opening list of over 300 international artists.

At least another 30 OZ & NZ artists will be invited over the next month, however we can't name any artists invited for privacy reasons until they accept and give permission for their name to be released or let it be known themselves. However, the ones that have been chosen are an excellent cross section of contemporary bands, some of them ARIA winners, some top touring and charting recording artists and many up-and-coming buzz bands as well as eclectic choices.

Since August 1 when applications opened for the 1900 performance slots in 80 clubs over five nights, more than 6000 artists have applied but there will still be another 3000 applications to process since the overseas artist cutoff date precedes the US deadline by two weeks. Last year, 60 OZ & NZ bands were invited out of the 300+ that applied, of which close to 40 actually played the event with excellent outcomes. Other invitees had schedule conflicts, visa issues or budgetary restraints which prevented their acceptance.

This year, over 240 Australian and 35 New Zealand artists applied before the October 25 deadline with the breakdown as follows:

Australian Artists
NSW 69
VIC 58
QLD 34
WA 22
SA 6
TAS 5
NT 3
ACT 0

NZ Artists
Auckland 23
Wellington 5
Christchurch 4
Other 3

Despite the tough economic times and expensive travel, this year's group of artists have the best opportunities to participate due to Federal and State government initiatives to spur music exports. AUSTRADE, which has supported SxSW for over six years has export grants available as well as a large SxSW trade fair stand, promotion in the US and extra performances during SxSW. The Australia Council has specific grants this year for SxSW covering both artists and managers. The WA government, which has led other states in contemporary music funding and travel grants is joined by Arts Victoria's Vic Rocks program, NSW's funding through MusicNSW and new assistance being made available by the Queensland government.

As longtime SxSW rep Phil Tripp explains, "Since 2002, SxSW has had over 200 artists from our side of the world showcase, many of whom have had spectacular international success as a result and others who have kickstarted their export careers early. Based on who has been invited, the focus on Australia which will be peaking as the Baz Luhrman movie paves the way, and continuing government export strategies for music, SxSW looks to be the best for us ever in 2009. We expect over 250 delegates to attend of which 100 are already registered, and with a likely additional 200 artists, crew and management from a projected 40 bands that will be able to play, the Australian Invasion version 6.0 (in years) and 450 in bodies may take our music industry over the top in 2009."

The SXSW MUSIC AND MEDIA CONFERENCE features a legendary festival showcasing more than 1,800 musical acts of all genres from around the globe on over eighty stages in downtown Austin. By day, the Austin Convention Center comes alive with conference registrants doing business in the Trade Show and partaking of a full agenda of informative, provocative panel discussions featuring hundreds of speakers of international stature. In its 23rd year, SXSW remains an essential event on the music industry calendar.

IMMEDIA - 20 Years In 20 Pages--IMMEDIA! Retrospective Available As A PDF Download

Sun, 21 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

SXSW - SXSW Site Now Open for Registrations and Hotel Bookings

Sun, 03 Aug 2008 14:00:00 GMT

The South by Southwest website opened on August 1 for delegate registration, hotel bookings and ~~artist submissions for showcases~~ (showcase submissions now closed). We urge you to get in early for lowest prices, best & nearest hotels as well as getting any information on next year's Music, Film or Interactive Festivals and Conferences. It's all at http://www.sxsw.com and an Australasian site with more detailed information for local industry people is at http://www.themusic.com.au/sxsw.

Phil Tripp & IMMEDIA! are Australia, New Zealand and Hawaii representatives for SxSW and can assist with any questions at tripp@sxsw.com (02) 9557 7766.

Here are dates and links to register now or for further information.

MUSIC FESTIVAL & CONFERENCES http://www.sxsw.com/music
Register to Attend http://www.sxsw.com/attend March 18-22, 2009

FILM FESTIVAL & CONFERENCES http://www.sxsw.com/film
Register to Attend http://www.sxsw.com/attend March 13-17, 2009

INTERACTIVE FESTIVAL & CONFERENCES http://www.sxsw.com/interactive
Register to Attend http://www.sxsw.com/attend March 13-17, 2009

HOTELS--http://www.sxsw.com/attend/hotels can only be reserved through the SXSW Housing Desk. Click a hotel's name to see a photo and information unique to that hotel (minimum stay, deposit, cancellation penalty, amenities, etc.) Only accredited SXSW attendees can make a reservation. The online registration process will provide you the option to book a hotel.

APPLY TO SHOWCASE A BAND http://www.sxsw.com/music/shows/apply Submit an online application from our website by clicking the "Apply To Showcase" link on this page OR submit your application though Sonicbids. It's your choice; the deadlines (October 24, 2008 for international artists) and fee ($25 for early submissions, $35 for applications submitted after September 26, 2008) are the same.

SUBMIT YOUR FILM http://www.sxsw.com/film/screenings/submissions in the following categories: Narrative Feature, Documentary Feature, Narrative Short, Documentary Short, Animated Short, Experimental Short, and Music Video. Submission price is $25 for shorts and $35 for features until November 14, 2008. At that time prices will increase to $35 for shorts and $45 for features until the final postmark deadline of December 12, 2008.

ENTER YOUR SITE IN WEB AWARDS http://www.sxsw.com/interactive/web_awards/enter Early Entry Deadline: Friday, October 17 - $10 Final Entry Deadline: Friday, December 19 - $25

TRAVEL--Our official travel agent for 5 years is SxSW veteran Brad Thomas of The Travel Bureau. Email brad@travelmanagers.com.au or phone (02) 8062 6442 for the best rates on flights directly to SxSW and via other US UK and European destinations.

AMBC - The 9th AustralAsian Music Business Conference--August 20-22, 2009 at the Acer Arena Grand Ballroom, Olympic Park, Sydney

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Since our first gabfest 20 years ago in the AgriDome at the RAS Showgrounds in 1989, we've produced Australia's longest running series of music industry conferences that have analysed the business, predicted the future and featured the leading lights of the entertainment sector speaking on crucial topics.

Held every other year, with no artist showcases, no trade fair stalls and no distractions to the business at hand, over 600 attendees have the opportunity to spend up to three days to experience nine panels and three keynote speakers. We've had some of the greatest names in the music business from here and abroad over the past two decades--too numerous to list here--and look forward to announcing our 2009 list of over 50 talkers on nine topics that will be a vital event to attend.

They will discuss WHY the future of the music business is meeting WHO in the entertainment software industry at the junction of WHERE delivery has shifted from physical to the digital over WHAT wired and wireless media will determine WHEN & HOW we as creators, producers and distributors of product & services can profit from the challenges of change.

In addition to attending the three days, networking with your peers and industry leaders, your registration also includes our exclusive ACCESS online private area where advance news, analysis and information is given on all topics.

Early Early Bird Rates for registration begin November 15 with the first announcement of preliminary topics and the first ten speakers revealed. Go to http://immedia.com.au/ambc to register your interest and to keep abreast of updates as we go. Or call (02) 9557 7766 to be put on our analog and digital mailing lists.

IMMEDIA! - Wanna work at IMMEDIA!?

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:00:00 GMT

SXSW - Free SxSW Austrade National Teleconference--Tuesday, Aug 12

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 14:00:00 GMT

We attach a PDF of Austrade's invitation to the FREE National Video Conference which is conveniently being held in major city Austrade offices on TUESDAY, August 12. In our last email, we said Wednesday--wrong day of the week--but right day of August 12. It's all about the South by Southwest Music Festival and conferences for those hoping to attend as delegates or showcase as artists.

This event follows our three Sydney (August 4), Melbourne (August 5) and Brisbane (August 11) free evening seminars from 6pm-9pm on going to SxSW, which you can see outlined here http://www.themusic.com.au/sxsw/newsDisplay.php?id=56

SxSW - Creating a strategic approach

South by Southwest is a key music event - join us to hear how to effectively use the event to achieve your goals.

Why you should attend this seminar?

* Hear from some of the most experienced participants at South by Southwest to help develop your strategy.
* Gain knowledge of how to pitch your band or artist for a showcase slot.
* Understand the logistic processes to make SxSW work for you.
* Get an idea of the funding, grant and support mechanisms that are in place.
* Receive direct advice, tips, do's and don'ts about the event and gain an understanding of how to get more opportunities to play gigs.
* Get comprehensive take-home notes to help you make the next step in getting to SxSW.

Speakers

* MusicNSW's Millie Millgate, who is their Creative Director, is a champion of Australians at SxSW, she ran the Australian Stand in 2008 and has been assisting bands at the event for many years.
* IMMEDIA!'s Phil Tripp, SxSW Australian representative and an expert on using SxSW in Austin.
* Visa Specialist Pam Meyers a leading LA based immigration attorney, a specialist in P-1 & O-1 Visas.
* Stage Mothers' Mary Mihelakos and Glenn Dickie are the people behind the long running Australian BBQ at SxSW, and will share tips about their program of events around the world.
* The Travel Bureau's Brad Thomas, gets more Australians their travel to SxSW than anyone else, will give his top 10 tips for travelling to Austin cost effectively.
* The Australia Council's Sue Spence, Manager, International Market Development, will speak about funding support from the Australia Council.
* The Australian Music Office's Tony George has been leading Australia's efforts in the music industry in the United States and will speak on Austrade's involvement in the event.

Limited places - register now

Don't miss out on the insights at this industry masterclass. Register online today at www.australianmusicoffice.com or call Austrade on 13 28 78.

DATE: TUESDAY August 12

LOCATIONS & TIMES
Adelaide - 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Brisbane - Noon to 2 pm
Darwin - 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Melbourne - Noon to 2 pm
Perth - 10 am to Noon
Sydney - Noon to 2 pm
Hobart - Noon to 2 pm

WHO SHOULD ATTEND
* Artists
* Managers
* Record Labels
* Agents
* Promoters
* Music Publishers
* Online and Mobile Music Mini-Moguls
* Music Geeks and Entrepreneurs

SXSW - Free SxSW Seminars, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Teleconference

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 14:00:00 GMT

A special series of free seminars have been announced for early August in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane for musicians, managers and music entrepreneurs hoping to showcase at or attend the 22nd South by Southwest Music Festival & Conferences to be held March 18-22 in Austin, Texas. Band submissions and delegate registrations start the week of August 4 & these seminars are crucial.

And on Wednesday, August 12, there is a free national videoconference in all capital cities' Austrade offices from noon to 2pm with seven speakers (below).

Sydney, Melbourne & Brisbane seminars begin with 6pm networking drinks, followed by a DVD of highlights of SxSW as well as feedback from bands and attendees at 6:30. At 7pm a panel of veteran music business delegates, media who've attended, government arts and music association staff will talk about:

WHO Should Go To SxSW as artists or delegates & what assistance is available.
WHAT Are The SxSW Components--Shows, Conferences, Trade Fair & how to fit in.
WHEN To Best Apply for showcases and how to best submit materials for success.
WHERE To Play other shows, meet music industry contacts and how to network.
HOW To Work The Event with concerts, parties, stand, SxSW/OZ magazine & more.
WHY You Need to Register or Submit Early to get close hotels & start to work it.

The free seminars are walk-up with no pre-registration (do not call venue)

SYDNEY - Monday, August 4, 6pm-9pm
Sydney University, Manning Bar
In conjunction with Drum Media, Austrade & MusicNSW
Panel includes:
Tony George--Austrade Music Office Los Angeles veteran of SxSW
Glenn Dickie--EMI Music, producer of Aussie BBQ at SxSW for six years
Craig Treweek--Street Press Aust. Publisher of Australian Music Guide at SxSW
Millie Millgate--MusicNSW, artist manager and Australian Stand manageress
Phil Tripp--IMMEDIA! SxSW representative and six-time delegate
Brad Thomas--Travel Managers, SxSW Veteran & official SxSW travel agent 5 years
Manning Bar Level 2, Manning House, Manning Road, U of Syd

MELBOURNE - Tuesday, August 5, 6pm-9pm
Corner Hotel Band Room
In conjunction with Inpress, Austrade & Victoria Rocks
Panel includes:
Mary Mihelakos--Stagemothers, producer of Aussie BBQ at SxSW for six years
Leigh Treweek--Street Press Aust. Publisher of Australian Music Guide at SxSW
Jonathan Williamson--Program Manager Victoria Rocks, former artist manager
Phil Tripp--IMMEDIA! SxSW representative and six-time delegate & 1 more TBC
The Corner Hotel 57 Swan Street, Richmond VIC

BRISBANE- Monday, August 11, 6pm-9pm
The Troubadour
In conjunction with Qmusic, Austrade and Time Off magazine
Panel includes:
Simon Homer--Owner of Plus 1 Records and SxSW veteran
Nick Croker--Business Manager, Musicadium; SxSW attendee 2007
Leigh Treweek--Street Press Aust. Publisher of Australian Music Guide at SxSW
Chris Pickering--Singer songwriter
Phil Tripp--IMMEDIA! SxSW representative and six-time delegate
The Troubadour 322 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley
Pre-register your interest with Qmusic roxy@qmusic.com.au (07) 3257 0013

NATIONAL AUSTRADE VIDEO CONFERENCE Tuesday, August 12, Noon to 2pm
held at Austrade offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth

A videoteleconference between key cities and Los Angeles on how to best use Austrade resources in advance in Australia, through the Australian Music Office in LA and on the ground in Austin. Tips on visas, travel, showcasing, publicity, promotion, professional business strategies, pre and post event grants through Austrade, Australia Council new export programs, state and others will be discussed.

Speakers include:
Tony George--Austrade Music Office Los Angeles veteran of SxSW, now in Sydney
Pam Meyer--US Visa specialist from Los Angeles
Leigh Treweek--Street Press Aust. Publisher of Australian Music Guide at SxSW
Phil Tripp--IMMEDIA! SxSW representative and six-time delegate & 1 more TBC
Millie Millgate--MusicNSW, artist manager and Australian Stand manageress
Glenn Dickie and Mary Mihelakos--Stagemothers & producers of the Aussie BBQ
Brad Thomas--Travel Managers, SxSW Veteran & official SxSW travel agent 5 years
and a member of Australia Council to explain their new contemporary music grants

For further information, email Phil Tripp at tripp@sxsw.com (02) 9557 7766
Go to http://www.themusic.com.au/sxsw and http://www.sxsw.com/music

SXSW - SxSW 2009 Opens for Regos and Band Submissions August 5

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Get in early... only four weeks to go to start to register as a delegate, get a hotel or submit a band for showcasing. We've been notified by the South by Southwest Music Festivals & Conferences scheduled for March 18-22 of the opening of registration for delegates and artist showcase submissions the week of August 4. Some important information:

AUGUST 11 (Monday)--FREE SxSW SEMINAR IN BRISBANE WITH QMUSIC starting at 6pm with drinks, 6:30 seminar presentation to 9pm with panel of veterans on how to best apply for showcases, make use of state and federal government initiatives, market through the Australian Music Office in LA and Austin and make the best use of SxSW as a delegate, standholder, band or business. Tentatively confirmed for the Troubador in Brunswick St. Mall, Fortitude Valley. Email roxy@qmusic.com.au for final details or call (07) 3257 0013 to register your interest.

AUGUST 12 (Tuesday)--FREE NATIONAL VIDEOCONFERENCE with AUSTRADE starts at noon (AEST) at their offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane with a panel of SxSW veterans on how to strategise participation & best submit artist showcase applications. A great two-hour advance networking opportunity. Email matthew.proft@austrade.com.au to confirm your place and get time & location.

Now here are details about registration, artist submissions & marketing

1. SXSW MUSIC REGISTRATION RATES: From when the website opens August 4 (US time--August 5 our time), the lowest-price early bird rate for the music event is US$550, which goes up to US$600 September 26, US$625 November 14, $650 January 16 and $695 as a walk- up rate from February 13. Go to http://www.sxsw.com.

2. SXSW MUSIC FESTIVAL ARTIST SUBMISSIONS: These are all being done online at starting the week of August 4 and closing October 15. We highly recommend that you apply early so you are heard by fresh ears in Austin and not wait until they are inundated and tired towards the end. You can apply through Sonicbids or directly online at http://www.sxsw.com. We do NOT take submissions through our Australian rep NOR do we want to receive any mail or email demos or samples.

3. SXSW FILM & INTERACTIVE REGISTRATIONS: Many music clients also attend the SxSW Film Festival & Conferences the week before (March 13-17) the music event. Early bird rates from August 4 - September 26 are as follows
PLATINUM--(Music, Film & Interactive)--$850 to attend all 3 shows & trade fairs.
GOLD--(Film & Interactive only)--$550 to attend those two but NOT the music event.
FILM--$300 for full delegates badge for Film Festival, Conference & Trade Fair
INTERACTIVE--$375 for the IA Festival, Conference & Trade Fair only.

4. HOTELS!!!! MOST IMPORTANT!!!! The main hotels sell out very early and if you want to have a booking in a nearby room in the city, you MUST do this at the time of registration. It is advised that you register very early and once registered, you can pick your hotel out of what stock remains. If you leave this to January, your hotel may be 25 or more kilometres OUT OF TOWN!

5. STANDS, BAG INSERTS, DIRECTORY ADS & MAGAZINE ADS These are still being finalised, but to give you an idea of costs of having your own stand, placing an insert in the show bags, advertising in the Directory or SxSW Magazine, use the following prices (in US$) as a guideline only. Prices subject to change.

3m x 3m STAND--MUSIC--$1900-$2500 FILM & IA--$1100-$1600 BOTH--$2700-$3300
6m x 3m STAND--MUSIC--$2800-$3800 FILM & IA--$1600-$2400 BOTH--$3300-$4600
Other configurations are available---Triple, Endcaps, etc.

DIRECTORY ADS--MUSIC From $960-$4800 FILM or INTERACTIVE-$488-$2290
BIG BAG INSERTS--MUSIC (Non-Publication) $1200-$1500 (Publication) $2800-$3500
FILM or IA (Non-Publication) $675-$850 (Publication) $1450-$1800
ADVERTISE IN THE SxSW QUARTERLY MAGAZINE--From $565 quarter page to $2235 FP.

IMMEDIA! - TheMusic.com.au Re-Designed & Re-Developed

Sat, 31 May 2008 14:00:00 GMT

UA - Download the Latest Urban Animal Rate Card

Sun, 13 Apr 2008 14:00:00 GMT

IMMEDIA! - Total hoax--Wheatley Reality Show a Media Swindle

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 14:00:00 GMT

IMMEDIA! - Soft Cell--Crim's Crib--Music Mogul Mansion Reality Show For Glenn Wheatley

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:00:00 GMT

SXSW - 2008 Australian Music Guide Available Online Now

Wed, 12 Mar 2008 13:00:00 GMT

IMMEDIA! - Internet & Print AustralAsian Music Industry Directory Celebrates 20 Years With Its 40th Edition Published March 1st

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 13:00:00 GMT

It was a dream in a hospital bed, post-heart attack two decades ago for music business entrepreneur Phil Tripp, that has resulted in 20 years of an ever-expanding sourcebook of Australian music industry contacts. With its 40th biannual edition published March 1, it's truly lasted as the "Yellow Pages of Australia's Music Industry" and also "The Most Stolen Book In the Music Business".

It all started when Tripp, then 37--a workaholic publicist and Austrade adviser on the music export business--suffered a cardiac arrest and died, but was revived and warned that he may have to stay in hospital for months. Fearful of losing his livelihood, he came up with the idea of a unique music industry directory as an export initiative and networking tool, which he could produce from bed with a small computer and one phone line. He was out in six days though and started to work his dream. What started as a simple concept turned into a major global business with both online Internet and print versions of the Directory becoming a huge success.
Tripp, an early adopter of email in 1984 and computer music bulletin board poster, released the directory on a music industry service in 1988 as a free resource in order to attract users but later monetised it online when the Internet changed the digital landscape of communication and data exchange.

In their 20 years, the book and online site have turned over in excess of $15 million, keeping up to six staff at peak times busy updating listings fortnightly, shipping print copies globally and signing up online subscribers daily. It's also spawned a music business books business that supplies schools, libraries and individuals as well as the 15 year biennial AustralAsian Music Business Conference and consulting business.
The staff spend three months twice yearly purely researching and updating virtually every music business company throughout Australia resulting in highly detailed listings of everyone from artists to record labels, publishers, music media, agents, managers, promoters, venues, studios, online music sites, mobile usic content providers and industry associations among over 70 listing categories. Full address, phone, fax, staff, email & Internet home page addresses are included. And this 20th year edition #40 has a bonus 20 page section looking at the changes in the industry over the past two decades, advice on how to succeed in the new music business and quotes from top industry figures on their best advice scattered throughout the 200 pages of listings.

As Tripp notes, "Things have changed a lot since 1988 when EMI had a five digit phone number and telexes were the only extra numbers in listings, not mobile phones, fax, email, IM or Skype contacts like now. We've grown from 96 pages of Australian only listings in our first print Directory to over 400 at the peak of the industry in 1998 and now just over 220 as the industry has shrunk, but we've survived and thrived by being digital too. "

The winning formula for AMID's success is free distribution of one print or online version to each listing and massive advertising subsidisation due to its being the only sourcebook for the region. Virtually every listing is free and each listed company or individual gets a free copy delivered to them, due to the $200,000 in display ads bought by record companies, lawyers, industry organisations and even the artists themselves seeking exposure.

Of 10,000 copies printed every March and September, 7,000 are given away free while individual copies at A$50 by mail order includes delivery in Australia. 3000 are sold here and overseas where the price is US$60. Six month online subscriptions are A$40 for Australia and New Zealand, US$40 for overseas subscribers and subscribers are emailed updates and changes every two weeks as they are added in the Internet version.

"Because the directory is digitally available with free sample pages and a subscription model, it's virtually cost-free to us to service and almost pure profit once we get the reader hooked." Tripp explains, "We call what we are doing 'data-drug dealing' where we give them just enough free to start their contacts and content habit. While the music industry dithered over the past decade on how to sample and sell music online, we embraced digital technology, online publishing, data-drug dealing free sampling and subscription models that have addicted our readers."

For images of covers, photos of staff or historic pics, contact Mark Berry at mark@immedia.com.au who can email high resolutions images or point you to media access for images online.

SXSW - Australian Music Guide Moves From IMMEDIA! to Street Press Australia

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 13:00:00 GMT

After four years of publishing the annual Australian Music Guide--a 15,500 copy newsprint magazine distributed free at South by Southwest Music Festival (SxSW) each year--IMMEDIA!'s Phil Tripp has sold the title to Street Press Australia--owners of Drum Media, Drum Perth, Inpress and other music or youth lifestyle titles. The AMG has been a key propaganda tool of homegrown artists and music businesses in print and online at http://www.themusic.com.au/sxsw/amg.php.

SPA takes over four months out from the 22nd SxSW to market the magazine to Australian artists and businesses keen to have a presence in the 36 page publication which will be inserted in over 12,500 delegate showbags as well as having 3000 copies available free in record and book retailers, venues and other key outlets in Austin Texas through SxSW Week March 12-16.

SPA intends to expand the AMG to serve as a promotional tool at future overseas trade fairs, conferences and music festivals with plans to have individualised editions for events such as MIDEM, Popkomm, CMJ, Canadian Music Week and other appropriate industry gatherings. As Publisher Phil Tripp states, "We've been proud to have developed this media asset alongside AUSTRADE's export efforts to being Australian music and artists to the fore in the US. We believe that their music business sense and publishing passion means that Craig and Leigh Treweek's Street Press Australia publishing empire will take AMG even further globally."

As Craig Treweek sees it, "SxSW is a crucial event for Australian music and we went this year, and plan to be there in 2008, to take our national music media network's power into that market and give even more momentum to the 40+ artists that will be showcasing at the event and support the business efforts of over 250 music industry delegates at the critical trade fair and conference."

Leigh Treweek has new strategies to put in place for the print and online publication. "While Phil has carved out a valuable niche with SxSW as a music evangelist for Australia, we see the need for a united Australian business presence at a variety of global music conferences, trade fairs and showcase festivals. We intend to take the AMG to the next level by increasing its print run, size and online reach beyond the US and into other territories such as Europe, the UK and Canada."

Over the past four years, the AMG has featured editorial on Doing Business With Australia, A Bluffer's Guide to Australian Music, Profiles on Showcasing Australian Artists, a Mini-Directory of the Australian Music Industry and much more. All four previous issues are now collector's items but can be viewed in their entirety as PDFs online at http://www.themusic.com.au/sxsw/amg.php.

Cover image is at http://www.themusic.com.au/sxsw/pdf/amg/2007/amg07_cover.pdf. Contact Leigh Treweek at the SPA Melbourne headquarters on leigh@streetpress.com.au (03) 9421 4499

IMMEDIA! - High Voltage Rock n Roll Hits in Print & Digital Formats

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 13:00:00 GMT

Today marks the debut of a special book in music industry history with the release in print and online of a controversial title on seven music business titans with a 5000 word free excerpt online now.

As one of our valued music industry associates, we wanted to make you an offer you shouldn't refuse. The latest music business book, "HIGH VOLTAGE ROCK 'n' ROLL" --The Movers and Shakers of the Australian Rock Industry by Christie Eliezer can be delivered to your home or office for the RRP of $34.95 (plus $8.80 postage and handling). We can ship to you immediately from stock overnight anywhere in Australia so you can read the book that hits the stores next week.

To give you an idea of how great it is, we have a 5000 word excerpt from three chapters on Michael Gudinski, Molly Meldrum and John Woodruff that's just a taster for the 328 page book. You can read it free at http://www.immedia.com.au/HighVoltage as of today.

"HIGH VOLTAGE ROCK 'n' ROLL" HITS IN PRINT & DIGITAL BOOK FORMAT

As the music industry has evolved from physical carriers such as vinyl to CD to digital downloading as a distribution method, the newest book on the titans of the Australian music industry is being launched as both a physical softcover title and a digital version, downloadable as a protected PDF from the Internet. "High Voltage Rock 'n' Roll" is a 328 page revelation of the movers and shakers in the Australian rock industry priced at $34.95 for the print edition & $29.95 for the digital version which is totally carbon neutral.

The website is http://www.immedia.com.au/HighVoltage with an introductory 5000 word excerpt from three chapters on mogul Michael Gudinski & top managers John Watson (Wolfmother, Silverchair, Missy Higgins) and Glenn Wheatley (John Farnham) available for free reading. As online publisher Phil Tripp of IMMEDIA! jokes, "For those who want to buy a book without going to a store, we offer two options-shipping them a paper book and having our favourite Tassie grower put in a hemp plant for carbon offset, or by digital download with only electrons and no carbon footprint."

High Voltage Rock 'n' Roll is the true account from behind the scenes of the Australian music industry with entertaining and inspiring stories from seven industry legends: Michael Gudinski, Denis Handlin, Ian "Molly" Meldrum, John Woodruff, John Watson, Shane Simpson and Glenn Wheatley. These men, who have turned teen dreams into million-dollar fortunes, talk candidly about their big wins, even bigger losses and the ones that got away. It also looks at their businesses and some of their major deals or mistakes.

Author Christie Eliezer, a long time music industry writer said, "High Voltage gets behind the 30-second grabs to look more closely at their ideas, their chutzpah and some of their multi-million-dollar deals. The music industry was--and is--more than just the place that made them rich and famous. It is a place that allows them to indulge their myriad of brilliant and crazy ideas."

The music industry is not for the faint hearted. The seven men profiled are all big risk takers, are passionate about music and their artists, and love the thrill of the deal. High Voltage reveals stories such as:

* The manager & publisher hunted by authorities for running Australia's first pirate radio station;

* The record company executive who took one artist to see the Pope;

* The incidents which led to the country's biggest music TV show almost being axed;

* Why a Prime Minister visited a music exec to run for office in a bid to attract the youth vote;

* A musician whose fiery "message from God" led him to become one of music's top managers.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - Christie Eliezer is Australia's leading music industry journalist whose 30 year career includes the editorship of Juke and AustralAsian Bureau Chief of Billboard. His two previous books are "Sherbet on Tour" in 1976 and "A Guide to the Music Business" in 2002.

ABOUT THE DIGITAL EDITION OF THE BOOK - http://www.immedia.com.au/HighVoltage "High Voltage Rock 'n' Roll" is the second music business book released on the Internet as a wholly downloadable PDF version by IMMEDIA!, the first being "When The Writ Hits The Fan by music lawyer Phil Dwyer in 2004.

IMMEDIA! - AustralAsian Music Industry Directory - New Dates, Deadlines and Specs

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:00:00 GMT

It's been 20 years since I was kind of forced to start this music industry resource, in print & later online, when in August 1987 I had a major heart attack-which was my first but thankfully my only one. After dying for four minutes, I was revived & have counted every day since as being blessed. This directory marks the end of the first 20 years for our book at a time of mixed fortunes for the recording industry but at a time of new life for the music industry.

We've seen the changes come & go. From five digit phone numbers & telexes for paper transmission to cassettes & vinyl being the primary carriers of music to now CDs declining while music without a hard carrier is making its mark. And of course, we can carry entire recording collections in our pockets as well as have music transmitted & played back on phones.

We've had to make a number of changes ourselves with both the printed editions we've done over the years as well as the way we serve the Directory online & in new formats. With our January 07 edition, we introduced a way to take the directory onto iPods & the new iPhone as well as having it on a thumb drive. As an experiment it was a little ahead of its time, but worth trying because it's going to be yet another method of delivery digitally rather than on the hard carrier of paper.

You won't find a lot of design or format changes in this issue, just a lot of personnel changes & fewer companies & listings as some parts of our industry are in decline. But what you will see with the next edition in 2008 are a number of changes:

* We're going to delay publication to March 1, 2008 from January 20 to make it bigger & better.
* We will start accepting artwork exclusively electronically as opposed to film as we always have.
* We're putting the directory into an online database to allow corrections online as well as by email.
* We'll also be changing section titles, adding new sections, deleting a couple & expanding it considerably.

Why are we changing publication dates?

Our next editions will hit the streets March 1 & September 1. We have been on the same publication schedule since we started, primarily due to our formerly having copies ready to put out at the MIDEM trade fair in Cannes France late each January until about five years ago. MIDEM's not really on our radar any more for distribution-we're more tied to South by Southwest in March-so, due to Christmas holidays & the slow month of January, we decided to move our production dates & deadlines.

Also, with our plans to upgrade the sections, listing criteria & information we'll publish as well as our methods of taking listings & ads, we need a little time to adjust our systems.

Our new Free Listing Deadlines are now November 15 & May 15. We will accept listings with payment of a late fee no later than our Late Listing Deadline of December 15 & June 15.

Advertising Booking Deadlines are December 15 & June 15-these are firm & final deadlines.

Art is due January 15 & July 15-submitted by email or disc & no longer required by film.

All of our current listings will be notified of the deadline changes & will be sent new listing criteria. We will also be doing our outreach to new players in the industry & inviting submission to new or changed sections.

Why are we now exclusively accepting
electronic art?

A few reasons brought us to this point. Demand was one, reliability was another while our new way of printing & scheduling is the third. We recognise that more art departments & graphic designers are able to reliably submit art by email or disc & at the same time, the electronic art has now become more reliable instead of fraught with glitches, corruption & being faulty.

We used negative film for so long because it was foolproof. Kinda like analogue records vs digital compressed songs. What you saw was what you got. We had to wait until the digital method became more foolproof before we adopted it. And with the next issue, we plan to go all colour.

Why are we changing the way listings are updated?

Since our early days, we used a form of software that was infallible for listing submissions. It did not require fancy applications, had no regard for Mac or PC platforms, did not carry viruses, beat any spam filter & could be reliably transmitted & received without regard to modem speed or Internet reliability. And anyone could do it. You didn't even need a computer or email address.

The software was paper & the delivery system was by mail or personal delivery. It worked. But sometimes technology catches up to the real world & convenience overcomes tradition.

So starting with the next edition, we are going to try to take submissions through our website using an online database that would allow current listings to correct their information dynamically & in real time. Having a couple of extra months to test this out is another reason we set back the issue.

We're planning on having the capability of accepting new listings by email-there are just a few issues to work out in terms of spam filters, lost listings in the ether & how to do this best. In the meantime, we will have our listing forms online at our website for download & filling in as well as paper form as we do this transition. We will also still be accepting listings by mail, the old fashioned way, for the next couple of issues-for those who are used to it.

So what sections are changing?

Every couple of years, there are changes in the music business-from telex to fax to email to IM; from 5 digit land lines to mobiles to 8 digit phones & VOIP; from vinyl to CD to DVD to downloads as carriers-all those in the past 20 years on our watch. So from time to time, we need to remove some categories, merge with others or create new ones. This will be happening over the next few months & we will be seeking advice from & advising current listings to do this.

One of the big changes will be in the Digital Downloads, Internet & Mobile Content areas. We intend to completely revamp them & have specific categories that reflect the diversity & growth in those areas.

Anything else we should know?

Keep in touch with the Directory on our website-www.immedia.com.au/amid-and also feel free to call us on (02) 9557 7766 or email directories@immedia.com.au.

AMBC - AMBC 2009 Dates Announced

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:00:00 GMT

Mark you calendars for AMBC #9 two years from now, August 20-22 2009.

AMBC - Podcast (MP3s) of 2007 Keynote Speeches

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 14:00:00 GMT

Download the 3 Keynote Speeches from Michael Smellie (President of Media Development, Asia Pacific for German media giant Bertelsmann and most recently Chief Operating Officer for the global music giant Sony/BMG based in New York), John Watson (President of major indie Eleven Music through EMI and one of the most successful managers in Australia with artists that include Silverchair, Wolfmother, Missy Higgins, Little Birdy, Paul Mac and The Dissociatives) & Bob Lefsetz (Author of "The Lefsetz Letter", published now for the past 20 years. Famous for being beholden to no one and speaking the truth, Lefsetz addresses the issues that are at the core of the music business: downloading, copy protection, pricing and the music itself).

AMBC - 1250 Word Street Press Article on AMBC

Thu, 26 Jul 2007 14:00:00 GMT

Once every other year for the past 15, the music industry at all levels has gathered to stop their day jobs for a couple of days, look to the future of the business and listen to a broad range of speakers from Australia and overseas debate the issues facing everyone in the food chain from artists to execs. And for its eighth incarnation, the AustralAsian Music Business Conference (AMBC) is convened and produced by Phil Tripp and his IMMEDIA! team with over 50 speakers in nine seminars, three special topic lunches and a networking drinks session to cap off each of three days, August 16-18 at Sydney's Acer Arena.

Without live music-there are no showcases or wannabe bands playing to empty rooms-nor lonely stands in a row with desperate salespeople, the AMBC has grown each year. In 2003, there were 550 attendees, close to 650 in 2005 and with over 400 paid registrants already networking within the online AMBC inner sanctum ACCESS, it looks like the 2007 edition may top over 700. Registrations started in October 2006 when, without announcing any speaker lineup or topics, the event managed to pick up close to 80 early-early-bird registrants taking advantage of a $385 three day price that was non-refundable, non transferable and non-cancellable. Similar to a Virgin Blue or Jetstar advance purchase ticket, it proved a hit.

It was Tripp's way of raising the capital to make up for Apple opting out of sponsoring the event, which the brand had done seven times previously, "They kinda outgrew us when they opened up iTunes." Tripp jokes. "But we had an ace up our sleeves-we offered a round trip to South by Southwest Music Festival in Austin Texas in March to be won by the best of the first 100 registrants by January 1 who could write the most compelling 50 word reason they should win the junket. Turned out it was a woman manager of many years who penned the argument which music journo Christie Eliezer judged as a close first to three others out of 80."

By the time March rolled around, AMBC had already announced its first three keynote speakers-super manager John Watson (Silverchair, Missy Higgins, Wolfmother, Pete Murray), probably Australia's top international record company executive, Sony/BMG global COO Michael Smellie, and industry analyst and leading music biz blogger Bob Lefsetz.

If Lefsetz' name is not familiar, he's been voted one of "The PowerGeek 25" the most powerful and influential people in the web music business in this month's Blender Magazine. Over the years, AMBC has always had keynote speakers from overseas that may not have been household names yet but by the time they hit the stage to wow the audience with either technology or ideology, they were already unforgettable.

"In 1995, we caused an uproar with ARIA and the record companies when we had Grateful Dead lyricist and Electronic Frontiers Foundation founder John Perry Barlow speak on the impending demise of copyright by 'shipping wine without the bottles' as downloading was referred to." Tripp recalls. "In 1993, we had demonstrated digital downloading of music live on stage to a jaw-dropped audience by digital music pioneer Anthony Stonefield who went on to make his millions in ringtones. We've had Ice-T talk to us from New York, MTV Asia head Andrew Hoppe from Singapore and only two years ago, Sony BMG Chairman Denis Handlin rocked the house with his excitement about where the industry is heading rather than falling into doom and gloom discussions."

But it's the future that AMBC has always pointed to and this year's agenda kicks off with a panel of the top MDs CEO and Chairmen of the industry-including two majors, EMI's John O'Donnell & George Ash of Universal, as well as major indies Shock's Chair David Williams, Roadrunner MD Jon Satterley and Alberts Chairman David Albert-predicting the next five years of charge, Getting music online and spreading it globally as well as retailing and etailing it locally rounds out the two panels that follow on day one with top overseas and Australian execs showing the way.

Friday the 17th launches the Artist & Managers panel with John Watson keynoting the day and moderating the panel of top managers and artists. The first artist is Katie Noonan and after an exhaustive search for a major artist, Tripp has lined up an 18 year act that made $20 million last year, recently sold out two Opera House concerts and is one of the top Australian artists most people have never heard of! It goes from there to how to capture the music market on mobile devices with overseas digital music gurus Ted Cohen and Kevin Arnold as well as capturing audiences using online video tubes and free tunes to monetise music.

Lefsetz promises to kickstart the Saturday with his rant and a panel of execs on how to use music communities, social networking sites and tastemaker sites with John Butler Trio manager Phil Stevens, Undercover Music's Paul Cashmere and Satterley again. The second session covers mining the live side of music for more revenue featuring Big Day Out partner Vivian Lees and promoter A.JH MAdah with the day ending with a panel on using technology-from podcasting and vodcasting to Second Life and beyond with top digital music online evangelists.

Each day has a special lunch seminar on music and media as well as Music 101 basics with networking drinks at the end of the day to decompress and make new contacts after a hard day's yak. And every registrant gets a showbag with over ten music business magazines, a free subscription to two music industry trades-The Music Network and Entertainment & Media-as well as a copy of the 2007 AustralAsian Music Industry Directory. In addition, each delegate has access to a special online area where over 300 articles on the seminar topics reside as well as the registrant database for advance networking and more resources for the music business.

In the real world a conference like this would cost $1250-$2000 with a rubber chicken lunch but IMMEDIA! has kept the costs down by shrewd marketing, online evangelism and cost effective use of venue and time. It's produced a brand that people trust and invest in as the only relevant and credible music industry conference over the years. "We already met our budget when we hit 400 delegates through the early bird rates and now that the rego fees are $660 or three days, $470 for two or $330 for one day (with student, APRA and MMF member discounts still in effect), we'll pretty much fill the event with those who wanted to wait and see who our last announced speakers are." Tripp concludes. "And like a concert promoter or festival producer, we'll probably cop a hiding for being money grubbing bastards!"

As part of their benevolent approach to the up and comers in the music industry, IMMEDIA! gave $15,000 of scholarships for one student each of 20 TAFE or other music school courses across Australia to attend as a way to assist exceptional music business aspirants. For this year's AMBC, IMMEDIA! is also offering a special deal for only 100 tickets for students and unemployed (read, most musicians) to attend one day--the Saturday only-at $100 for all sessions including the showbag and networking drinks. Requests giving proof of student or unemployed status need to made through Michelle Padovan at IMMEDIA! at michelle@immedia.com.au or phone (02) 9557 7766

Full details on the AMBC are online at http://www.immedia.com.au/ambc with all topics, talkers and times outlined along with registration forms.