The live music industry is a vibrant and dynamic field that offers a plethora of opportunities for enthusiasts. Whether your passion lies in performing, organizing events, or contributing behind the scenes, there’s a place for you. This guide will introduce you to various ways to break into the industry—from connecting with local music scenes, leveraging social media, and attending major industry events to joining professional organizations and more. Armed with these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to making your mark in the live music world.
Canadian Live Music Association
The Canadian Live Music Association (CLMA) is a pivotal organization in Canada’s music industry. It represents a wide range of stakeholders, from artists and venues to festivals and production companies. For anyone looking to get involved in the live music scene in Canada, the CLMA provides essential resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities.
Membership with the CLMA can open doors to industry insights, policy updates, and exclusive events. They work tirelessly to support the development and sustainability of live music by advocating for favorable policies and providing a platform for industry professionals to connect and collaborate.
What’s New From CLMA
Upcoming events
The CLMA hosts a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from music showcases and awards ceremonies to industry conferences and workshops. Keeping abreast of these events can offer invaluable networking opportunities and a chance to stay informed about the latest trends and challenges in the industry.
Upcoming events include an annual conference that brings together music professionals from across the country, offering panels, performances, and discussions on the future of live music. Another notable event is the CLMA Awards, which celebrates the achievements of artists, venues, and production teams.
1 – Get involved in your local music scene
One of the most effective ways to start your journey in the live music industry is by getting involved locally. Attend local gigs and festivals to familiarize yourself with the scene. Smaller venues often serve as breeding grounds for emerging talent and can provide a closer, more intimate perspective on the industry.
Volunteering or working part-time at local venues or with event organizers can offer hands-on experience. Building relationships with local performers, promoters, and venue owners can help you learn the ropes and establish a network within the community.
2 – Keep your ear to the ground
Staying informed about what’s happening in your local music scene can give you a competitive edge. Follow local artists and venues on social media, subscribe to newsletters, and read local music blogs to keep up with announcements and trends.
Being in tune with the local scene will not only help you identify opportunities but will also demonstrate your commitment and passion for the industry, which can be crucial for building credibility and relationships.
3 – Attend industry events
Industry events are golden opportunities for networking and learning. Conferences, trade shows, and festivals such as South by Southwest (SXSW), Canadian Music Week, and the Polaris Music Prize Gala provide platforms to meet industry professionals, discover new trends, and attend valuable workshops and panels.
Being present at these events allows you to engage directly with influential figures, gain insights from experts, and potentially uncover opportunities for collaboration or employment. Always ensure to carry business cards and follow up with any contacts you make to build lasting professional relationships.
4 – Join an organization for music industry professionals
Joining a professional organization, such as the CLMA, the Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA), or the Music Managers Forum (MMF), can be a significant step forward. These organizations offer resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities that can be pivotal in your career.
Membership often comes with benefits like access to industry research, job boards, exclusive events, and mentorship programs. These resources can provide you with the knowledge and connections needed to thrive in the live music industry.
5 – Join an organization for arts and culture industry professionals
In addition to music-specific organizations, consider joining broader arts and culture organizations such as the Canadian Arts Coalition or the Cultural Human Resources Council. These groups advocate for the arts in general and can offer valuable resources and connections that extend beyond the music industry.
These organizations often provide funding opportunities, workshops, and collaborative projects that can help you develop a well-rounded understanding of the cultural sector and find interdisciplinary opportunities.
6 – Use social media
Social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn are powerful tools for networking and promoting yourself in the live music industry. Follow industry leaders, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions to increase your visibility.
Utilize these platforms to showcase your work, share industry news, and connect with like-minded professionals. Consistent engagement and content sharing can help you build a robust online presence and become a recognized name in the industry.
7 – Start your own blog or podcast
Creating a blog or podcast focused on live music can be an excellent way to establish yourself as a knowledgeable and passionate industry follower. Share your reviews of gigs, interviews with local artists, and insights into industry trends to build an audience and showcase your expertise.
Consistently producing high-quality content will not only demonstrate your commitment and knowledge but also attract the attention of industry professionals who might offer collaborative opportunities.
8 – Volunteer your time
Volunteering is a fantastic way to gain hands-on experience and build connections in the live music industry. Events often rely on volunteers for various tasks, from stage setup to ticket sales and crowd control. Volunteering can give you a behind-the-scenes look at event operations and introduce you to key players in the industry.
Moreover, your willingness to volunteer shows dedication and can lead to more significant opportunities down the road. Many industry professionals began their careers by volunteering and gradually took on more substantial roles.
9 – Get involved in online communities
Online forums and communities, such as Reddit’s r/musicindustry or various Facebook groups, are excellent places for learning, asking questions, and networking. Participate actively by sharing your knowledge, seeking advice, and staying informed about industry news and opportunities.
Joining online communities can help you connect with professionals from different parts of the world, gain diverse perspectives on industry challenges, and find potential collaborators for projects.
10 – Make a “top 100” list
Creating a “Top 100” list of local artists, venues, or events can be a fun and engaging way to get involved in the live music scene. This can be published on your blog or social media, attracting attention from the artists and fans included on your list.
Such lists are often shared widely, increasing your visibility and establishing you as a curator of local talent. It’s a creative way to show your knowledge and passion while also celebrating the local music scene.
11 – Be persistent
The music industry can be highly competitive, and persistence is crucial. Rejections and setbacks are part of the journey, but maintaining a positive attitude and continual effort will pay off over time.
Stay focused on your goals, continually seek out new opportunities, and be open to learning and adapting. Persistence often sets apart those who succeed from those who give up too early.
12 – Stay up to date with industry news
Keeping abreast of industry news and trends is essential for anyone looking to make a mark in the live music world. Subscribe to industry publications like Pollstar, Billboard, and local music blogs to stay informed about developments, emerging trends, and key players.
Staying informed can help you anticipate changes in the industry and adapt your strategies accordingly. It also shows your commitment and seriousness about your career to potential employers and collaborators.
13 – Give back to the community
Contributing to the community can help you build a positive reputation. Consider organizing or participating in benefit concerts, mentoring young artists, or supporting local music education programs.
Giving back not only enhances your standing in the community but also creates a supportive environment where the live music scene can thrive. This collective growth benefits everyone involved.
Networking tips
Effective networking is about building meaningful relationships. Always approach networking with a genuine interest in learning about others and offering something of value in return. A simple, thoughtful follow-up can leave a lasting impression.
Be prepared with a short pitch about who you are and what you do, and always carry business cards. Attend both formal industry events and informal gatherings, such as after-parties or local meetups, to maximize your networking opportunities.
Final thoughts
Getting involved in the live music industry requires a combination of passion, persistence, and strategic networking. By utilizing these strategies and continually seeking opportunities to learn and connect, you can successfully carve out a place for yourself in this dynamic and thrilling field.
| Strategy | Description |
|---|---|
| Involve in local music scene | Attend gigs and volunteer locally to gain hands-on experience. |
| Keep your ear to the ground | Stay informed about local events and trends. |
| Attend industry events | Network and learn at conferences, festivals, and trade shows. |
| Join professional organizations | Benefit from resources and networking opportunities with groups like CLMA. |
| Use social media | Build your presence and connect with industry professionals online. |
| Start a blog or podcast | Share your insights and build an audience around live music. |
| Volunteer | Gain experience and connections by volunteering your time. |
| Engage in online communities | Join forums and groups to network and learn from others. |
| Make a “Top 100” list | Curate and share lists of local artists and events to increase visibility. |
| Be persistent | Stay focused and determined despite setbacks. |
| Stay updated with news | Subscribe to industry publications to keep informed. |
| Give back | Contribute to the community to build a positive reputation. |
