Music business workshop in Pretoria to empower artists

Drakensberg Promotions, in partnership with the City of Tshwane, will host the Tribute Concert Music Workshop at the Eskia Mpahlele Library at Sammy Marks Square in Pretoria from 9am to 2pm. All arts stakeholders are invited to be part of an in-depth discussion that delves into the state of the industry, in particular the live music scene.

Coming up for debate are topical issues affecting the music industry, such as contracts, rights administration (performing, mechanical and needletime rights), business management, publishing, recording and performance. Facilitated by Moshito chairperson Sipho Sithole, both young musicians and established professionals are invited to come and join the conversation.

The Tribute Concert on 29 August will pulsate to the sounds of Thandiswa Mazwai, Tshepo Tshola (Sankomota), Caiphus Semenya, Kanda Bongo Man (DRC), Vusi Mahlasela, Oliver Mtukudzi (Zimbabwe), Mango Groove, The Soil, Afrotraction and more. For the City of Tshwane, the annual Tribute Concert is more than just a music festival and they are working towards ensuring that the arts are included in the mainstream economy. According to Councillor Nozipho Makeke-Tyobeka, Member of the Mayoral Committee responsible for Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture in Tshwane, the workshop is in line with the City’s Creative Industries Strategy. “We want to create an after-effect that is meaningful for artists. It should assist them in developing their skills and empower them in their future endeavours,” she said.

“The workshop is, amongst others, aimed at imparting business skills to musicians and related sectors. We have seen high profile artists dying poor despite their immense talent and track record in the industry and the workshop is a step in the right direction to change the lives of the local musicians and artists,” added Makeke-Tyobeka.

This free workshop is facilitated by Drakensberg Promotions and assisted by the Heritage Music School. To register or to apply for accreditation, please contact Hlengiwe on [email protected] or call 011 482 4973.

Saturday 22 August will also see the last leg of the Road to Moretele Park Concerts at Newtown Junction mall in Johannesburg, featuring Nathi and Vusi Nova from 1:30pm.