Call for applications: ACT Creative (un)Conference in Johannesburg

The rigorous programme is a professional development workshop intended for musicians who are in their first five years of professional practice and are looking to raise their career profile as well as develop their business acumen.

Akum Agency director Jess White will discuss the role of social media and fashioning the visuals behind artist beats. He will cover platforms, handles and hashtags as well as how artists can build a fan base and market their events to promoters, festivals and listeners.

University of the Witwatersrand lecturer and music producer Jonathan Shaw will present his research on music discovery and the behavioural process consumers employ when encountering new music for the first time. The day will conclude with an experimental, interdisciplinary expression of serious play in a process-driven exercise by musician Nonku Phiri.

“The one-day course includes practical guidance on making your professional profile an asset, ready for proposals, residencies and applications and record labels or to prepare your mindset for the discipline involved in independently managing and distributing your own music,” the ACT said. “Jean-Michel Wickli will discuss the value chains in the industry and his experience in managing local acts from different genres, including Samthing Soweto, Shortstraw and Darkie Fiction.”

The workshop is limited to 15 participants. In order to be considered, interested participants should email a motivation letter (50 to 100 words) and one reference to [email protected] for review. Only successful applicants will be contacted with further information.

View original call here.