The third annual conference of music journalism and public relations returns to Southampton Solent University, with a line-up curated by BA Hons Popular Music Journalism lecturer Fiona Sturges. The event brings together award-winning writers, editors, broadcasters and photographers from the BBC, Scuzz TV, the Guardian, the Independent, Vice and DIY.
Fiona Sturges says:
“This year’s line-up is bigger and better than ever, and reflects the many skills that journalists need to succeed in today’s industry. If anyone can provide sound advice for our students about getting their careers started, these hugely talented speakers can.”
Monday 2nd November, 11.30 – 4.00 in the Solent Lecture Theatre
First up is Anna Mears of PR agency Inside/Out, who previously worked with Dog Day Press, Warners and Wasted Youth before joining the agency in 2014. She has won and been nominated for numerous industry awards, and works with artists such as Bats For Lashes and Chvrches. She will be in conversation with music blogger and broadcaster Ruth Barnes who presents The Other Woman on Amazing Radio, alongside her work for the BBC.
The first panel discussion of the day focuses on the art of the interview and features journalist Dorian Lynsky of The Guardian and Q Magazine and photographer Jean-Luc Brouard, alongside Anna Mears and Ruth Barnes. The panel will be hosted by conference organiser Fiona Sturges.
Joining the conference at 2pm is the multi media rock journalist Terry Bezer of Scuzz TV, Metal Hammer and the That’s Not Metal podcast. Bezer will be talking about his career so far and will be offering useful tips and advice for students looking to work within the music media industries.
The final panel discussion of the day is hosted by Mike Diver of Vice magazine and focuses on the role of new media platforms in the contemporary music media environment. Joining Mike for this session will be Terry Bezer, Emma Swann (of DIY) and Everett True (of Rejected Unknown and the Collapse Board).
It looks set to be a great conference and is free for Southampton Solent University students to attend.