UnConvention Salford

About me:

Un-Convention 2009 is a not for profit grassroots led music conference for DIY and Independent music makers and companies. Born in Manchester in 2008 as an alternative to the more mainstream In The City event, it has already inspired Un-Conventions in Belfast and Swansea and future events in Glasgow, London, Barcelona and Reykjavík. This year’s UK national event in Salford will have a range of key musicians, bands and industry personnel in attendance...

Un-Convention embodies the spirit of independence, and celebrates the optimism, resilience and passion of music’s bright young things. From cutting edge artists, to taste-making labels, entrepreneurs who are redefining culture, and the people who make things happen in towns all across the UK and beyond, Un-Convention reflects the genuine sweat, blood and tears that underpins the music we love.

The first Un-Convention was designed to provide a forum for people with a dogmatic and unrelenting desire to put what they believe out there, to make people listen, and to discover something new. The Un-Convention goal was to launch an alternative and truly independent event that would not be about the next big thing or the next big deal but more about exchanging ideas, camaraderie, collectivism, and developing opportunities for creativity to flourish.

It is for doers, those with self belief, and the confidence to challenge the unknown, to take risks and break rules, for those who would rather seek forgiveness than ask for permission. It is for those who will define the future of the music industry.

The core element of Un-Convention is a series of five panels. Each panel will focus on a key issue - or issues – that independent or DIY artists and labels face.

This year’s panellists include Marin Elbourne (Glastonbury), Crispin Parry (British Underground), Andrew Dubber (New Music Strategies), Al Farquhar (Modern Art Management), Peter Hook (New Order), Liam Frost, Ashley Beedle, Jo Good (XFM/MTV), Simon Aldridge (BMI) and John Robb.

In addition to panels and workshops Un-Convention presents the best new live talent, across genres, from all over the country. Un-Convention is not an industry showcase - more a celebration of talent below the mass media radar.

Artists will perform during daytime acoustic sessions and over three nights of gigs.

Un-Convention 2009 bands include: Everything Everything, Kyte, The Loose Salute, Magic Arm, Kasms, Arthur Delaney, Gallops, Sisters of Transistors, Arch Nazards, Fangs, Jamie Finlay, Withered Hand, Louis Barabbas and the Bedlam 6, John Smith, Jake Flowers, Jesca Hoop + Lil’Fee (The Whip) DJ Set.