The Kids Are Alright!

The Position (or Lack Thereof) of Young People in the World Music Industry

Jim Hickson, by Anna Rees
Alexandra Petropoulos
Allie Silver
  • event type:WOMEX 15 Conference
  • date:24 Oct 2015
  • time:11:15 - 12:00
  • city/area:Budapest
  • venue:Conference Room 2, Bálna
  • country:Hungary
  • event posted by:Piranha Arts

Chaired by:

Jim Hickson (UK/Germany)
Media & communications, Piranha Arts

With:

Alexandra Petropoulos (USA/UK)
Deputy editor, Songlines

Allie Silver (Argentina/USA)
Founder, Free Radical Productions

In the popular mindset, world music is often viewed as an interest for the middle-aged-and-older; statistics also show that the average age of those working in the 'world music industry' is rising by the year. But why, and how can this be addressed?

Examining matters of education, marketing, generational cultural values and the practices of the music industry as a whole, this session will question why world music has such an image and why younger people stay away from further involvement. These discussions will then be used to suggest positive developments: how we can garner more interest for world music as both an art-form and a business, and make the world music industry more accessible and attractive to the next generation.

Let’s actively work towards a more open and exciting industry for veterans and newbies all!

Photo credit: Jim Hickson, by Anna Rees