Gold Sounds Central Victoria’s biggest music conference returns for its second year from October 13-16 bringing together regional and Melbourne music communities for a host of panels, workshops, networking events and a youth program.
Held on Djarra Country in Castlemaine, the conference sessions cover a variety of topics and host an extraordinary array of music industry professionals.
The conference kicks off in style at The Taproom on Thursday October 13 with a launch of television and radio broadcaster Myf Warhurst’s book The Time of My Life – described as “a captivating and joyous memoir of wisdom, humour and heart that unleashes the music within us all”.
Join Myf in conversation with Gold Sounds director, Fionna Allan, as she shares funny, fabulous and occasionally fraught tales.
Friday October 14 sees the event move to the Phee Broadway Theatre in the centre of Castlemaine. Conference programming will feature sessions on mental health wellness, music and activism, regional festival and venue programming, opportunities and tips when applying for grants and funding, and a session on creative collaboration.
On Saturday October 15, the focus turns to songwriting copyright and licensing, community radio, marketing and PR and youth-focused events programmed in direct response to young people.
Saturday will also feature a special Yarning Strong panel from Support Act, focusing on breaking down barriers for First Nations artists, including guests Mitch Tambo and Dallas Woods.
“The conference panels are a great opportunity to hear about the journeys of a diverse group of industry legends, from the lessons they have learnt over the years to where they are heading. The Yarning Strong session has Dallas Woods returning to the conference again, sharing his knowledge and experience alongside other talented and passionate First Nations people,” Ms Allan said.
On Sunday October 16, musicians take centre stage as songwriting clinics featuring Cash Savage and Mo’ju are held by APRA AMCOS.
“Having esteemed songwriters like Cash Savage and Mo’ju share their knowledge and sit with our local musicians to create something together brings us back to the heart of what we do – producing great music. These sessions are supportive, inspiring and a great springboard for budding songwriters to take that next step,” Ms Allan said.
Gold Sounds Music Conference will also feature music interview training and other practical sessions.
Tickets go on sale this Thursday September 1 via the Gold Sounds website.
