ABOUT

The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa has announced the launch of their in-person two-day Professional Development Workshop for mid-career music managers and self-managing career artists in Aotearoa - ELEVATE. Applications open Monday 16 September, 2024 and close Thursday 26 September, 2024.

Delivered with the invaluable support from NZ On Air, ELEVATE will be held across Tuesday 12, November and Wednesday, 13 November, complemented by a series of online follow-up sessions.

The MMF Aotearoa is committed to building a thriving music managers community and supporting Music Managers in Aotearoa with professional development opportunities. ELEVATE aims to enhance the skills, knowledge, and industry connections of participants, thereby contributing to the overall capacity and sustainability of the Aotearoa music sector. 

Across the two days, participants will engage in a series of sessions covering career insights from experienced managers, the business of music management, the shifting technology landscape, contracts, negotiations, and more, as well as Q&A sessions and an evening mixer.

See below for full programme details, key dates, activities, and eligibility criteria.

Please Note: There are three out-of-town grants available to cover the cost of flights and accommodation. Successful recipients of this grant will be flown in on Monday, November 11 and out Wednesday, November 13 provided there are available flights. They will also be responsible for their own ground transport and on-the-ground costs. Participants may be considered for this by registering interest through the main application form.

KEY INFO

Application Timeline

September 16 - Applications Open

September 26 - Applications Close (5pm)

Week of October 3 - All applicants notified of the outcome of their application

November 12 - ELEVATE Day One (10am-6pm, followed by an evening mixer) 

November 13 - ELEVATE Day Two (10am-6pm)

Eligibility Criteria

MMF Aotearoa members will be selected to participate in the 2024 Elevate program, through an application process. Applications will be assessed by a review panel, in conjunction with the MMF Aotearoa. All participants will be required to complete a feedback survey upon completion of the program.

In their application, successful applicants will be able to:

• Demonstrate a suitable level of management / industry experience, along with sufficient current and upcoming career activity, that indicates they will benefit from this program

• Articulate how the various activities in this program will support their professional development needs

• Articulate their career goals for the upcoming 12-24 months

• Demonstrate enthusiasm and a commitment to this program

• There are three out of town grants to cover the cost of flights and accommodation

To be eligible for the Elevate program, applicants must: 

• Be a current member of the MMF Aotearoa (NZ applicants)

• Be available to participate in all program activities

• Be able to attend all programme dates

• Be able to arrange for your own travel to and from the venue

WHAT MEMBERS HAVE SAID ABOUT MMF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

“One of the greatest things I got from attending a Professional Development programme back in the day, was the realisation that I wasn't alone. Managing an artist is such a self-directed reality, that it can easily become isolating and even overwhelming at times. Learning beside others who were on the exact same waka, while sharing challenges and experiences together helped me to find community, but also to gain confidence at a key time in my career.”

-Ninakaye Taane-Tinorau
TIKIDUB PRODUCTIONS, Manager of Tiki Taane

 “The MMF Co-Pilot Professional Development program was a pivotal experience for me. Initially daunted by the challenges, the program equipped me with the tools and confidence to thrive. I gained an understanding of the industry's complexities through mentorship, conversations with my peers, artist development, strategic promotion and networking.

The program's emphasis on building strong foundations within yourself, your business and then empowering your artists through collaborative decision-making was eye-opening.

Post-program, I wanted to gain knowledge while working with industry experts, and I secured a position at Ourness, an independent record label. I am the label coordinator & A&R for Ourness (Royel Otis & Genesis Owusu). This role allows me to apply the multifaceted skills I acquired, from management and marketing to public relations and digital strategy.  Thank you MMF for the opportunity to attend the Co-Pilot programme.”

-Jaimee-Lee Tredray
Label Coordinator & A&R for Ourness (Royel Otis & Genesis Owusu)