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Evolution Youth Music Summit

Jan 8, 2024 | 9:31 AM

Evolution Youth Music Summit presented by SaskMusic

When

  • February 23, 2024Showtime: 8:30am
  • February 24, 2024Showtime: 8:30am

Where

University of Regina

Calling young artists and aspiring music professionals!

Registration is now open for the Evolution Youth Music Summit:
Attend FREE in Regina, Friday February 23 or Saturday, February 24/2024

Deadline for demonstration performance opportunity is midnight January 10/24.
Final general registration deadline for the summit is midnight February 10/24.

Registration will close early if all spots are filled.

Are you interested in music – maybe a musician, singer, or songwriter – and curious to learn more about performing and the music business? SaskMusic is offering an exciting opportunity for youth (age 14 to 25) to learn more about performing and professional music options.

Our Evolution Youth Music Summit will be a unique opportunity for you to receive information and guidance to get started in the right direction, and meet others who are passionate about music. We’re gathering working artists and industry professionals to mentor you through topics such as musicianship (with separate sessions for vocal, bass, guitar, etc), promotions, professionalism, stage skills, and other topics geared to those getting started in the music scene.

This one-day summit will be offered on two dates. You can attend on Friday, February 23 or Saturday, February 24.

Space is first-come, first reserved and registration will close when we reach capacity. Thanks to the support of our sponsors FACTOR Canada and Creative Saskatchewan, we are able to offer free registration! Attendees are responsible for their own travel to Regina and accommodations if required. We are also offering a limited number of bursaries for those who need financial assistance to attend (see registration form to apply for a bursary).

Demonstration performances:

When you register, you can tell us if you’d like the opportunity to perform 2 songs on the evening of the summit and receive feedback. Up to 4 artists each night will be selected to perform and receive tips to improve your stage presentation, vocals, and songwriting (if applicable) by a panel of industry reps.

For this opportunity:

  • All styles of music will be considered. Submit with original music if you’re a songwriter, but cover songs are fine too.
  • Selected artists must live in Saskatchewan.
  • If a band, the lead vocalist or soloist must be under 25 years of age.
  • Minors must have parental consent to participate.
  • The artist/group must attend the one-day workshop held that day (February 23 or 24, in Regina)
  • Basic backline (drum kit, bass amp, guitar amp, microphones and PA) will be provided.

Summit Schedule (subject to change)

Each day is a standalone summit.

Daytime events at the University of Regina main campus.
Evening demonstration performances location TBA.

For minors attending, a parent or guardian must register with and attend events with the attendee(s) they are registering. Please bring a refillable water bottle, and something to take notes with.

8:30-9:00am Registration, coffee and juice

9:00-9:15 Welcome and acknowledgements

9:15-10:45 Overview of the Music Business

  • How artists earn money – royalties and copyright 101
  • Things you need to do first
  • How to build your image/promote yourself
  • Professionalism and building your career
  • Protecting yourself from scams
  • Q & A

10:45-11:00 Break

11:00-12:00 CONCURRENT WORKSHOPS: Choose one.

Instrument workshops: These will discuss warm ups / technique, professionalism, practice habits, attitude and freelancing and related topics.

  • Vocals workshop
  • Guitar workshop
  • Bass workshop
  • Drums workshop

Behind the Board workshop: Overview of how to get started in live sound or studio recording work (audio engineer or producer), professionalism and best practices, ‘Day in the life’ of a live or recording professional.

Additional breakout rooms may occur depending on registration requests (eg keyboards, horns)

12:00-1:00pm Lunch break (An eating area will be provided for those bringing a bagged lunch. There are also take-out restaurant options around the U of R.)

1:00-1:45 Legal Stuff: Setting up a band agreement, Cover songs – what’s allowed, Basic recording agreements

1:45-2:30 Booking shows: How to book/negotiate – fair pricing and pay; Promoting your gigs; Professionalism

2:30-2:45 Break

2:45-3:45 Releasing Music: How to prepare for your first time in a recording studio; How to get your music online and promote it to fans; Overview of grants available to artists

3:45-5:00 Performing Tips: Creating a great show, Stage plots and soundchecks

5:00-7:00 Break for supper
*Artists performing that evening, and Behind the Board class attendees if desired, head to the venue for setup at 5:30.

7:00-9:00 Live Demonstration Performances and feedback (Doors open 6:30pm)

4 acts, 2 songs each with time for discussion.
Behind the Board attendees may have the opportunity to shadow the live crew during setup and the show.
All summit attendees and their guardians are encouraged to attend the show to hear feedback provided to the performers, as much of it will be applicable to other artists.

9:00 Parting and thank yous

A final schedule will be provided to registrants closer to the date.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

About SaskMusic

SaskMusic is a non-profit, member-based creative association. We represent, promote and develop the artists and music industry of Saskatchewan. We offer one-on-one guidance, workshops, marketing and export assistance, career development opportunities, peer sessions, artists/services directory, and much more. From songwriters and freelance musicians to studios, we work with artists and industry members from across our province, in an extensive range of genres and skill levels. We provide information and resources to the public and the music industry, and are the presenters of the Saskatchewan Music Awards. If you have questions, we want to help. You can subscribe to our (free) e-release for updates on the Saskatchewan music scene, or join as a paid member for as little as $30 for an annual youth membership.

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