JULY MEMBERS ONLY ONLINE SESSION: Self Management

The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa are pleased to announce their July Members Online Seminar is with Mel Parsons and Tana Tupa’i

SELF MANAGEMENT

Join two award winning self-managed artists, Mel Parsons and Tana Tupa’i (Tomorrow People), as they share their insights on how to navigate the music industry as independent artists.

Topics covered will include developing your own unique sound and brand, building a strong online presence, getting your music heard by the right people, negotiating deals and contracts, managing your finances, and staying motivated and focused.

This is a rare opportunity to learn from two artists who have achieved success on their own terms. Don't miss out!

Mel Parsons is an award-winning songwriter & touring artist, independent label owner and tour promoter. Parsons started Cape Road Recordings for the release of her first album in 2009, with four subsequent releases since and countless tours both domestically & internationally. She has built and maintains good relationships throughout all sectors of the music industry including a 7 year stint on the board of Independent Music NZ. Parsons brings perspective and experience as a working artist & small indie label owner to the conversation and is particularly passionate about advocating for and on behalf of her fellow artists. Parsons holds a Performing Arts degree (Popular Music) from the University of Auckland, and is based in Ōhinehou / Lyttelton. 

Tana Tupa’i is the co-founder, manager and keyboardist for platinum selling reggae band Tomorrow People.
Since 2010, the self-managed band have toured extensively in both New Zealand and overseas. They are mainstays to all the major festivals and their album releases have earned them multiple music awards,
platinum & gold certificates, and No 1 chart placings.
Tana received the MMF Award for Best Self-Managed Artist in 2018, and in 2019 he started the first ever Good Vibes Winter Festival NZ (arena tour). Tana also tours other bands around Aotearoa, and is a mentor to many in both the Pacific & Mainstream music industry. In June 2023 Tana was the Festival Director for Samoa's first ever major festival, Motherland Samoa Festival.
Tana also currently manages various other projects within the music industry and wider community, which involve promoting pacific excellence.

MMF AOTEAROA july MEMBERS ONLY SESSION

WITH mel parsons & tana tupa’i

Date: Tuesday 25 July

Time: 6pm – 7pm

RSVP: For MMF members only. RSVP to Rachel admin@mmf.co.nz.  Spaces are limited so RSVP is essential.

Due to the limited places please note if you RSVP and then fail to attend the session without notifying us, unfortunately you will not be eligible for future sessions

MUSIC MANAGERS FORUM AOTEAROA 'BACK TO BASICS' SEMINAR RETURNS TO AUCKLAND

Music Managers Forum Aotearoa, with support from Recorded Music New Zealand, is proud to announce the return of the free Back to Basics seminar to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland! The seminar will take place on Tuesday 8 August 2023.   

Aimed at all who are in the early stages of artist management, including self-managed artists, this seminar explores the fundamentals and inner workings of the music industry. Topics will cover planning a release, artist development and the business of music.

Lorraine Barry (manager of Sir Dave Dobbyn, Avantdale Bowling Club, Aaradhna, Aidan Fine, Home Brew, Rizvan) will be joined by Mikee Carpinter (manager of Georgia Lines, Alae, Hooks, Alex James). They will present and share their indispensable knowledge, and answer questions from attendees.

Back to Basics Seminar Auckland    

When: Tuesday 8 August 2023

Time: 6.00pm - 7.30pm

Venue: APRA AMCOS Boardroom, 113/23 Edwin St, Mt Eden, Auckland 

Lorraine Barry began working with Sir Dave Dobbyn 19 years ago. Avantdale Bowling Club, Aidan Fine, Home Brew, Rizvan and Aaradhna complete her current roster. She’s a keen mentor for the MMF Aotearoa and sits on the Board of the Music Commission. 

In her former life at Virgin Records in London she was International Marketing Manager for acts including Ice T, Spice Girls, Massive Attack, Neneh Cherry, Placebo and The Verve before taking on the role of running the International Department.

Mikee Carpinter is a musician, director and producer who has played an instrumental role in bringing some of New Zealand’s finest music-based visual content to life.

Mikee brings a passion for the New Zealand music industry with his 20+ years of experience. Much of that time has spent working on his own musical projects, while also managing acts including Alae, Georgia Lines, Hooks and Alex James.

FREE ENTRY to all (come armed with your questions!).

RSVP is essential.

MUSIC MANAGERS FORUM AOTEAROA PRESENTS THE 'BACK TO BASICS' SEMINAR IN WELLINGTON AND CHRISTCHURCH

The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa, with support from Recorded Music New Zealand, is proud to present the free Back to Basics seminar in Wellington on Tuesday 18 July, and in Christchurch on Wednesday 19 July 2023.  
 
Aimed at all who are in the early stages of artist management, including self-managed artists, this seminar explores the fundamentals and inner workings of the music industry. Topics will cover planning a release, artist development and the business of music.

Lorraine Barry (Manager Sir Dave Dobbyn, Avantdale Bowling Club, Aaradhna, Aidan Fine, Home Brew, Rizvan) will be joined in Wellington by Jenny Mitchell (self-managed singer/songwriter) and in Christchurch by Big Sima (self-managed rapper/songwriter). They will present and share their indispensable knowledge, and answer questions from attendees.

Back to Basics Seminar Wellington   
When:      Tuesday 18 July 2023
Time:        6.00pm - 7.30pm
Venue:      Room 1D08 
                 School of Music & Creative Media Production, 
                 Massey University, Block 1, Entrance C, Wallace Street Mt Cook

Back to Basics Seminar Christchurch   
When:        Wednesday 19 July 2023
Time:          6.00pm - 7.30pm
Venue:        The Chamber @The Piano, Centre for Music & the Arts
                   156 Armagh St, Christchurch

Lorraine Barry began working with Sir Dave Dobbyn 19 years ago. Avantdale Bowling Club, Aidan Fine, Home Brew, Rizvan and Aaradhna complete her current roster. She’s a keen mentor for the MMF Aotearoa and sits on the Board of the Music Commission. 
In her former life at Virgin Records in London she was International Marketing Manager for acts including Ice T, Spice Girls, Massive Attack, Neneh Cherry, Placebo and The Verve before taking on the role of running the International Department.
 
Jenny Mitchell is multi-award winning singer/songwriter based in Wellington. Her 2022 album, Tug of War, was nominated for a 2022 Aotearoa Music Award, and is the home of the 2022 APRA Best Country Song; Trouble Finds a Girl ft. Tami Neilson.
Jenny originally hails from Gore, Southland and has recently showcased at BIGSOUND (Australia) and Folk Alliance International (U.S).

Big Sima is a self-managed rapper/songwriter from Ōtautahi, more recently known for his mahi with seven-piece hip hop band Boomtown. Last year he released his debut album Stereotypes of a Polynesian Misunderstood with close friend and collaborator Tiki Taane, much to critical acclaim. This winter Big Sima & Boomtown will head out on their second NZ tour in 12 months. 
                                  

FREE ENTRY to all (come armed with your questions!). RSVP is essential.

MAY MEMBERS ONLY ONLINE SESSION: How to Pitch to Music Festivals & Promoters

The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa are pleased to announce their May Members Online Seminar is with Fenella Stratton and Jason Schroeder

HOW TO PITCH TO MUSIC FESTIVALS AND PROMOTERS

Join us for an MMF members only Online Seminar with Promoter / Booker Jason Schroeder and Manager/Agent Fenella Stratton in this online seminar as they provide valuable insights on how to pitch your live show to festivals and promoters. Learn the importance of having a clear message and branding, creating a compelling pitch, and understanding the needs and preferences of the festival or promoter. Discover the significance of networking and building relationships in the industry, as well as the importance of professionalism and responsiveness. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain practical advice and tips for pitching your live show and successfully navigating the festival and promoter circuit.

Fenella Stratton is the co-owner & director of Tāmaki Makaurau based music management & booking agency, Twice The Hype. She has 20 years experience in the NZ Music industry and manages award winning electronic artists, Lee Mvtthews as well as EMWA & Sin.  Alongside this, she is a current Executive committee member of the MMF Aotearoa and has a wealth of experience in promotion and production.  

Jason Schroeder has been working in the music industry as a Concert/Festival Promoter and Event for over a decade. He is currently the Events & Venues Manager at the Otago Uni Students Association, Festival Director of the Auckland, Dunedin & Hawkes Bay Craft Beer & Food Festivals, Festival Director of Fortune Festival,  Booking Agent for NZ’s largest club night ‘Mono’ in Christchurch as well as bookings for other student events across the country. Jason has a strong history working in student events as well as booking tours & festivals across the country. He has also managed artists such as Summer Thieves, Ha the Unclear & Kylie Price. 

MMF AOTEAROA MAY MEMBERS ONLY SESSION

WITH FENELLA STRATTON & JASON SCHROEDER

Date: Monday 22 May

Time: 6pm – 7pm

RSVP: For MMF members only. RSVP to Rachel admin@mmf.co.nz.  Spaces are limited so RSVP is essential.

Due to the limited places please note if you RSVP and then fail to attend the session without notifying us, unfortunately you will not be eligible for future sessions

APRIL MEMBERS ONLY ONLINE SESSION: Mastering the Music Business: Insights from a Music Manager and Artist

The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa are pleased to announce their April Members Online Seminar is with Mikee Carpinter and Georgia Lines

MaSTERING THE MUSIC BUSINESS
INSIGHTS FROM A MUSIC MANAGER & ARTIST

Join us for an exclusive online seminar: "Mastering the Music Business"! Learn from seasoned music manager Mikee Carpinter and the award winning artist he manages, Georgia Lines, as they share their invaluable insights on navigating the music industry.  Get insider tips and personal anecdotes from those who have made their mark in the music business. Don't miss this rare opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry.

Mikee Carpinter is a musician, director and producer who has played an instrumental role in bringing some of New Zealand’s finest music-based visual content to life.

Mikee brings a passion for the New Zealand music industry with his 20+ years of experience. Much of that time has spent working on his own musical projects, while also managing acts including Alae, Georgia Lines, Hooks and Alex James.

With each new release, Aotearoa New Zealand artist Georgia Lines showcases her ever evolving craft and creative palette. The singer / songwriter has enchanted audiences with her effervescent personality, exquisitely soulful, dream-like vocals, and distinctive feel-good R&B-sprinkled pop. Georgia has lyrical prowess, natural poise, and an impressive ability to craft catchy melodies. She weaves together and delivers stories that express the complexity of humanness in an uplifting way. The winner of 2022’s Breakthrough Artist of the Year Tūi, Georgia recently performed at SXSW’s Music Opening Party at the Empire, kicking off the music festival.

MMF AOTEAROA MARCH MEMBERS ONLY SESSION

WITH mikee carpinter & georgia lines

Date: Wednesday 26 April

Time: 6pm – 7pm

RSVP: For MMF members only. RSVP to Rachel admin@mmf.co.nz.  Spaces are limited so RSVP is essential.

Due to the limited places please note if you RSVP and then fail to attend the session without notifying us, unfortunately you will not be eligible for future sessions

MARCH MEMBERS ONLY ONLINE SESSION: JESSIE SCOULLAR

The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa are pleased to announce their March Members Online Seminar is with Jessie Scoullar, Wicksteed Works on 

Making Impactful Announcements

When you have something to say, how do you ensure that your message reaches the people who need or want to hear it? Whether it's a new release, a collaboration, gig or tour, new merchandise or something else, it's important to be thoughtful about how to best convey key messages to your audience.

In this workshop, we'll examine what makes for the most impactful announcements, for those moments when you need to make a splash. We'll cover taking a critical view on your organic communication channels, considering who and how to prioritise.

We'll analyse a best-case announcement timeline, and identify the requisite steps to enable planning, preparation and execution of your messaging rollout:

• your organic communication channels

• your announcement timeline

• identifying the ingredients / parts

• planning, preparation and execution

• measurement

Wicksteed Works

Wicksteed Works is a boutique consultancy laser focused on empowering musicians to maximise their audience and sales potential through connection, communication and coordination of kick ass direct-to-fan marketing and retail campaigns.
Owner Jessie Scoullar cut her teeth on the world of direct-to-fan in the fast-paced environment of Topspin Media’s Creative Services team, where she produced campaigns for major artists including Fatboy Slim, Sigur Rós, and Paul McCartney.
In 2012 she set up Wicksteed Works in London, UK, as an independent direct-to-fan agency and went on to work with PJ Harvey, Noel Gallagher, Mumford & Sons, Laura Marling, UNKLE, Max Cooper and more. Before leaving her native New Zealand in 2007, she worked with CRS Management and practised as a commercial solicitor.

MMF AOTEAROA MARCH MEMBERS ONLY SESSION WITH JESSIE SCOULLAR

Date: Tuesday, 21 March

Time: 6pm – 7pm

RSVP: For MMF members only. RSVP to Rachel admin@mmf.co.nz.  Spaces are limited so RSVP is essential.

Due to the limited places please note if you RSVP and then fail to attend the session without notifying us, unfortunately you will not be eligible for future sessions

MUSIC MANAGERS FORUM AOTEAROA ANNOUNCE ‘HOW TO MARKET AND PROMOTE YOUR MUSIC’ SEMINARS IN INVERCARGILL & QUEENSTOWN

Following the outstanding success of the How To Make Money From Your Music seminars in 2019, the Music Managers Forum Aotearoa, with thanks to NZ On Air, Recorded Music NZ, APRA AMCOS, NZ Music Commission and Creative Communities Queenstown Lakes District and Invercargill City, are returning to Invercargill and Queenstown with the essential FREE Stage Two seminar, How to Market and Promote Your Music.

How musicians release and promote contemporary music continues to evolve, with an enduring focus on digital platforms. Over 75% of the New Zealand Music Industry income is from streaming, but an artist faces stiff competition, against all other artists, within the realms of the large worldwide digital stores and platforms. In order to cut through the noise, artists need to be active across many promotional channels to drive awareness of their projects. With the majority of artists self-releasing, it is important that managers and musicians include a strategic selection of options in their toolkit for the benefit of their independent releases.

This not-to-be-missed seminar will cover avenues of releasing, marketing and promoting music including publicity, bio’s, press releases, tips for pitching to media, marketing, digital marketing, social media, playlists and radio airplay.

Speakers are:

‘How to Market and Promote Your Music’ FREE Seminar
 
INVERCARGILL

Date:                           Monday 27 March 
Venue:                        Old St Johns Church, Te Rau o te Huia
                                    (SIT Centre for Creative Industries) 
Time:                           5.30pm doors for 6.00pm start.
                                    Seminar finishes at 7.30pm

QUEENSTOWN

Date:                           Tuesday 28 March 
Venue:                        Puāwai space, Te Atamira,
                                    Remarkables Park Town Centre, Frankton, Queenstown.
Time:                           5.30pm doors for 6.00pm start.
                                    Seminar finishes at 7.30pm

FREE ENTRY to all musicians, self-managed artists, music managers or anyone interested in the music industry. RSVP is essential.  
 
Thanks to NZ On Air, Recorded Music NZ, APRA AMCOS, NZ Music Commission, Creative Communities Queenstown Lakes District and Invercargill City, and the Music Managers Forum Aotearoa.

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Music Managers Forum Aotearoa is the collective voice for music managers and self-managed artisits, both signed and independent. The MMF Aotearoa is an independent, non-profit trade association dedicated to helping grow artist manager businesses through education, networking and advocacy.
The MMF Aotearoa work towards a fairer, honest and more transparent music industry which operates with the highest of integrity in the interests of the artists our members represent.  We aim to represent the wide diversity of voices and backgrounds of music managers and their artists.

The Label represent a collection of independent labels in NZ (4AD, Rough Trade, XL Recordings, Matador, Young Turks, Secretly Canadian, Dead Oceans, Jagjaguwar and Sub Pop) and have delivered successful campaigns for Adele, SIA, Queens of the Stone Age, The xx, The National, Sharon van Etten and Radiohead. The NZ artist roster includes Fat Freddys Drop, Nadia Reid, Don McGlashan, Reb Fountain, Don McGlashan and Unknown Mortal Orchestra.

NZ On Air Music fund the recording and promotion of single songs, multi-song projects and music videos to help connect great NZ songs with NZ audiences. Jeff Newton pitches NZ music to all of NZ’s radio stations and streaming services.

Rodney Hewson has over 30 years’ experience in both executive roles with record labels and in artist management — from humbling beginnings in an average (crap) band to roadie/tour manager and manager for The Exponents in the 90’s. Rodney then filled a number of roles with record labels including PolyGram Records (now Universal) and Sony Music. He worked in sales, as National Promotions Manager, Label Manager, NZ Artist Marketing Director and A&R Director across those labels over a 18 year career. And now? A full circle, managing The Exponents again and up and coming pop sensation Luca George. Suffice to say he has been part of many artist success stories and sadly as many failures.
 
Cushla Aston, of Tainui and Te Arawa descent, is the founder of Aston Rd, a boutique Artist Management company managing Louis Baker, alongside music management consultation and special projects. Since joining the NZ Music industry in 2011 after a decade in the UK, she has worked with notable New Zealand artists such as Fat Freddy’s Drop, Julia Deans, Kora and Trinity Roots. Cushla is an active participant in the New Zealand Music Industry.  She is the Chairperson for the MMF Aotearoa , mentor for Te Māngai Pāho funded artists and Senior Lecturer, Artist Development at Massey University for the Bachelor of Commercial Music.

HOW TO MARKET AND PROMOTE YOUR MUSIC SEMINAR - HASTINGS

Following the outstanding success of the How To Make Money From Your Music seminar, the Music Managers Forum Aotearoa, with thanks to NZ On Air, Recorded Music NZ, APRA AMCOS, NZ Music Commission and Hastings District Creative Communities are returning to Hastings with the essential FREE Stage Two seminar, How to Market and Promote Your Music.

How musicians release and promote contemporary music has changed considerably in the last few years, with an increased focus on digital platforms.  Over 70% of the New Zealand Music Industry income is from streaming, but an artist faces stiff competition, against all other artists, within the realms of the large worldwide digital stores and platforms. In order to cut through the noise, artists now need to be active across many promotional channels to drive awareness of their projects. With the majority of artists self releasing, it is important that managers and musicians learn these skills for the benefit of their independent releases. 

This not-to-be-missed seminar will cover avenues of releasing, marketing and promoting music including publicity, bio’s, press releases, tips for pitching to media, marketing, digital marketing, social media, playlists and radio airplay.

Speakers are:

Lisa Paris                        CEO - The Label (Music Marketing and PR Specialists)

Jeff Newton                  NZ On Air – Music Promoter - Platforms | Puoro Kaiwhakahau – Punaha Rorohiko          

Tana Tupai                    Self-managed artist – Tomorrow People
Gina Linnell                   Music Manager (Trei & Levi) Promoter & Event Manager

‘How to Market and Promote Your Music’ FREE Seminar

Date: Tuesday, 1 November 2022

Venue: Spaceship, 118 Karamu Rd North, Hastings

Time: 5.30pm doors for 6.00pm start. Seminar finishes at 7.30pm

FREE ENTRY to all musicians, self-managed artists, music managers or anyone interested in the music industry. RSVP is essential.  Email admin@mmf.co.nz to secure your seat.

Thank you to NZ On Air, Recorded Music NZ, APRA AMCOS, NZ Music Commission, Hastings District Creative Communities and the Music Managers Forum Aotearoa.