Some of the country’s most respected female artists and music industry identities will converge on Brisbane next week for a truly unique event – Women in Music.

The first gathering of its kind in Australia, Women in Music (WiM) will feature a full day of insightful workshops, seminars and discussions held at The Judith Wright Centre on Tuesday, March 8th.

Among those speaking at the Brisbane gathering will be vocalist and guitarist with ARIA winning band Operator Please Amandah Wilkinson; five-time platinum artist Katie Noonan; and Adele Pickvance – bassist with legendary Brisbane band The Go-Betweens.

They will be joined by some of the country’s most respected women from across the music industry including music managers, publicists, label owners, music writers, photographers, venue managers and promoters.

They include Megan Reeder Hope (General Manager, Secret Service Public Relations) and Sam Cook (Director, The Dreaming Festival) alongside music managers Leanne de Souza (The Medics), Cathy Oates (Angus and Julia Stone), and Natalie Bell (Whitley, Oh Mercy).

Keep reading for the complete list of artist and industry speakers.

Q Music Executive Officer Denise Foley – whose organisation is behind the event – says WiM aims to provide young women with the information and support they need to develop and build their careers as artists or music industry professionals.

“This has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, but that is changing as more and more young women look to careers in music,” Ms Foley explains.

“And this event has been developed out of a clear need for those women to build their networks, ask questions, and gain some inspiration in a supportive environment.”

She adds that while speakers were flying in from around the country for WiM, the bulk of those taking part were Queensland based.

“The depth of talent among our own local industry is significant and this event is an important opportunity to celebrate the strength of the Queensland community of women in music,” she says.

The WiM program will provide a full day of informative panels and practical workshops, and explore career options in the Career Path Roundtables.

The industry focused sessions will provide an important overview of the music industry, and examine critical issues such as event management and how to release and promote music.

Meanwhile artists involved will share their thoughts and experiences on everything from songwriting to producing hip-hop tracks, and practical advice on playing drums or guitars in a band.

Tickets for Women in Music are on sale now with generous discounts available for groups of five or more. Pre-registration is highly recommended and can be done online at www.womeninmusic.com.au

EVENT DETAILS:
WHEN: Tuesday 8th March, 2011
WHERE: Judith Wright Centre of Contemporary Arts
420 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane.
TICKETS: $44 individuals; $33 per person for groups of 5 +
(inc. GST & lunch)
WEBSITE: www.womeninmusic.com.au