January 2010 Music Network Meeting Minutes

The Music Network Meeting Minutes 28th January 2010

Introductions:

Simon Howes, Robert Edwards, Saurabh Thomas, Gwen King, Jamiee Hewitt,  Dan May-Miller, Jack Kennerly, Simon Evison, Vince O’Malley, Karl  Tippin, Kevin, Tom Prottey, Jack Perry, Aidan Laverty, Darren Roberts, Rob Heaton, Tom, Clare Edwards, Joe Blanks, Doug Blanks, Colin Tippin, Marcus Dellicompagni, Scott Sheppard, Phil Mountford.

Apologies: Mark Sampson, Andy derrick, Anthony Hughes.

New Points:

Karl from Musical Exchanges talked about www.musicalexchanges.com – which has now gone live! This brand new website is social networking site, diary and recruitment site designed for anyone working in the music industry.

Marcus Dellicompagni – Doing a PHD and researching the power relationships in music industry of Birmingham has started by looking at Urban music concentrating on Lozells but now wants to widen the scope to other genres and areas.

Robert Edwards – working in own TV studio making a range of shows from games shows and children’s tv. Interested in finding musicians who can produce theme tunes, perform on the station and help the children presenters develop their own band! To find out more go to www.lovemedialtd.co.uk or contact email: Robert at lovemedia.co.uk

Tom – Jam night from the Roadhouse looking for a new venue as they’ve had to move on from the Roadhouse. Looking for a venue with some backline equipment already – the night attracts about 20 performers and had a good momentum. And is usually a Thursday. If someone knows a venue contact Tom Richardson 07956 368998

Tom – interested in starting offering his services paid and free apprentice work doing almost anything in the music industry. 07956 368998

World Unlimited, Folk night at the Hare and Hounds – Yeah Sparrow performs on 31st January. Also playing are the Kings of Spain and Alex Moir and its £3 in! Also he is playing for Silent Filter Promotions gig at the Wagon Horses in Digbeth and they are trying to set some new nights there supporting local bands. http://www.myspace.com/yeahsparrow and http://www.myspace.com/silentfilter

Simon Howes – Social Media Café is tomorrow (Friday 29th Jan) at 10am at Coffee Lounge and every last Friday of the month – a good way to meet other social media types in the city and get ideas and ask questions http://www.birminghamsmc.com/

Rob Heaton from Wolverhampton – looking to start up a business offering music production, on location recording, audio editing and mixing. Contact Rob on 07858 520318

Gwen King – is looking for someone to write theme music for her TV show and other musicians who can compose good songs email: gwen at gwenking.co.uk

Clare Edwards – updated everyone on Music Central which is a new project probably starting in April 2010 which will be designed to support music industry companies and individuals eg, managers, labels, promoters etc through a programme of mentoring, seminars, networking and a conference. Go to clareedwards@mac.com after April for more details.

Stafford based studio and staff currently mostly taken up by one band – ‘The Tunics’ – no website but you can get a message to them via www.joeblanks.com

Jack Perry - The Razorbax have just made their first record. Go to www.therazorbax.co.uk for more details. Dave Midson has mastered it – they are now looking for contacts for distribution, promotion and getting gigs.

Next meeting Thursday 25th February 2010 4pm – 6pm. Special thanks to Clare Edwards for leading the January meeting and at short notice. If anyone else wants to lead a Music Network meeting get in touch, you know it has to be a good thing to do for local music.

Birmingham & Black Country Music Network Minutes Thurs 3rd December

BCMN Minutes

Thursday 3^rd December 2009

Present

Andy Derrick – Sostenuto LLP, - info@sostenuto.org.uk

ADJQ – Jazz fusion quartet – www.adjq.co.uk

Steve Rubenstein – performer of 40 years experience, solo performer – orangepip@south66.fsnet.co.uk

Rob Heaton – Routes To Music graduate, starting a freelance music business, HNC in music production, choral singer looking to develop music production business – bert@wanderful.plus.com

Ken Banks – Co-owner and director of Major Key Studios, foundation degrees for University of Wolverhampton, studio space, TV and live sound recording/production, talent search ‘Captured’ Fridays at the The Public – performance recorded video and edited sound, 32 channel recording with SSL Desk.  Producing a live performance recording for the Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra – ken@majorkeystudios.com

David Blakemore – Routes To Music graduate – Winchester University graduate in creative industries – plays guitar, writes music – david_blakemore@hotmail.com

Dale and Tracy – MASCA – duet performing worldwide covers and original music – acoustic/electric rock – mascamusic@live.co.uk

Belle Sorelle – Hannah Smith, Gemma Parr, Patsy Parr, Bella Bennewith – samparr@parrmarketing.co.uk

 

Minutes

Andy Derrick – Sostenuto LLP runs the Black Country Music Network and chairs the meetings, runs the website http://blackcountrymusicnetwork.wordpress.com

ADJQ – Next gig Fri 11^th December, Rush Hour Blues, Symphony Hall Foyer Bar, Broad Street, Birmingham – 5.30pm – www.adjq.co.uk - looking for live bookings of this dynamic and award winning group.

Steve Rubenstein – looking for publishing of original songs –

www.taxi.com was suggested as a way of putting your songs forward for possible inclusion in a variety of products from records, tv programmes, web media and computer games.  Discussion on royalties and what to do followed, people referred to http://www.andyderrick.co.uk for some free articles on PRS and PPL and also to www.prsformusic.com

Belle Sorelle – 4 girl band recently appeared in X Factor going through to the boot camp.  After a series of high profile local and charity events with Bev Bevan and Robert Plant, they are now looking for songwriters interested in writing for Katy Perry / Pink girl band sound.  Contact them at samparr@parrmarketing.co.uk or Julie@parrmarketing.co.uk or visit www.bellesorelle.co.uk

Rob Heaton – looking for opportunities, job experience, internships in radio production, live sound production.  About to start training as a radio volunteer at WCR in Wolverhampton but keen to know of other studio opportunities available.

Masca – Built a reputation as a function act and originals band all over the world in many settings.  Now based again in the UK, they are looking for live music opportunities in the Midlands for their Electric/Acoustic Duo – www.masca.co.uk - mascamusic@live.co.uk

The Black Country Music Network is next meeting on the following dates

Thursday 21^st January 2010 – 4pm

Thursday 11^th February 2010 – 4pm

Thursday 4^th March 2010 – 4pm

All meetings take place at Major Key Studios, The Public, West Bromwich

The Black Country Music Network is run by Sostenuto LLP – www.sostenuto.org.uk - an organisation dedicated to supporting and advising the creative industries.

The network is supported by Ken Banks and Phil Savage of Major Key Studios based at The Public who provide us with free meeting space and refreshments.

www.majorkeystudios.com - Visit their website to see more about the services and facilities on offer at their studios, the live music performance opportunities and their work helping to support the music industry in the Black Country – many thanks guys.

September 2009 Music Network Meeting Minutes

September 2009

Music Network Meeting Minutes

Present: Mark Badger Iron Man Records, Vince O’Malley and music exchanges, Adrian Kimberline from exit recording, Jennifer Bolton singer songwroter, Simon Howes sound engineer, Darren Roberts Birmingham Uni, Keisha Thompson singer songwriter, Phil Manford, Andy CFO for the beatsmiths

Apologies: Andy Derrick, Clare Edwards,

Vince: Music Exchanges
http://www.musical exchanges.com
This site is developing fast and is about to launch a musicians networking section, auction area to buy and sell, recruitment section for musicians to find people to play with and plaza section. Work continues on the development of the networking side of the site and a section called my band: name details etc. The site will be able to handle multiple bands diaries

Mentioned: 26th-27th sept cocksmoor woods leiesure center
tickets £5 on dar £6 for the weekend
young drummer of the year Richard rainer
www.ukdrumfair.com
rhythm magazine will be at the event. discussions of vintage drum kits

also on following weekend 2-4pm on stourbridge radio: the bridge to discuss music exchanges. hoping to choose a playlist.

The site will be initially going to uk wide.

Dave Taylor
Todays speaker: David Rose who use to be at bbc music pebble mill. head of drama.

Adrian Kimberline: Wanted to talk about mastering.
mention of Simon at Musoplex for mastering.
also for mastering Ian Shepherd based in cambridge soundrecording technology: 01480 461880. http://www.productionadvice.co.uk
also http://www.beatsmiths.co.uk

Keisha:
Mentioned the musicins union event at the drum
discussion followed regarding Musicians Union and activities in the local area.

Keisha mentioned John Morris: nurvrax runs website called http://www.nurvrax.com

There’s a new event every six weeks at venue near drum with open mic etc. plus singers. On 15th october there will be a live showcase

LIME: ladies in music and entertainment. The year anniversary tonight
at the O Bar on broad street.

Darren: doing a phd on the “Geography of Networks” to do with music
He is interested in the music world and is looking at “networks in music”
He is looking at how music emerges in the city, how the city influences music and its emergent forms.

list of networks mentioned:
lozells and the young disciples and urban record label
music exchanges
musicians union
university
studios
audience central
regerasals
press
social networks social media
council
artsfest
anyone interested in discussing info further emai: dxr827@bham.ac.uk

Anthony Hughes from sostenuto: music mentoring scheme and screen wm

Mike: freelence illustrator. He has done comic books, illustration. He’s looking to work with band doing artwork. trying to get into it like flyers and posters
http://www.theartyone.co.uk. A number of people wanted to get in touch and get mike to do some artwork. Some suggestions included to register with national illustration assoc and wrietsr and artists yearbook, also talk to st pauls gallery in hockley

Anthony Hughes: a film called “le Donk” a shane meadows film. bafta event and handful of tickets available, 6th oct, the electric cinema.

Sostenuto: Black Country Music Network on the first tuesday of every month.
takes place at the public. at major key studios. 4-6pm http://www.sostenuto.org.uk
running a program called routes to music across the whole of the black country
http://www.twitter.com/sostenuto

Phil
Mentioned he is very close to releasing an album.
talked about digital downloads: tunecore, ditto music, horus music, ioda,
mentions of last.fm, spotify,

Questions raised regarding Music Lawyers: Musicians Union mentioned, Kevan Tidy from Iron Man Records mentioned, other local lawyers mentioned. Discussions on current state of copyright, creative commons licences and more

Discussion followed including: mention: Andrew Dubber, BCU, Jez and Birmingham Music month, Birmingham Music.

Details of next Music Network Meeting and possible new location to be posted in the next week or so, keep an eye on this site.

June 2009 Music Network Meeting Minutes

June 2009

Music Network Meeting Minutes

Present : Andy Derrick (Sostenuto LLP), Mark Badger (Iron Man Records, The Music Network), Adrian Kimberlin (Exit Recording), David Powell, Jayla Nyota (Performance Poet) , Ashley (prole position, numb ratio) and a number of latecomers whose names i didn’t get.

Apologies:  Anthony Hughes, Clare Edwards,

Jayla:
She is putting on a showcase for unsigned acts,
1st july 2009 7.20pm
£2.00 with flyer
lizzie dean(from boy george) basil gavidon(ex steel pulse), shakti, j-disco, chinky, jackpike, jayla
the acorn pub, high street, erdington, birmingham, www.myspace.com/totalydifferent
see flyer.
www.myspace.com/totalydifferent

also she is on student internet radio station called kick fm mostly rnb. jaylas show is called epic fusions www.myspace.com/epicfusions
www.kickfm.com
email: epicfusions at rocketmail.com

Andy Derrick:
Andy runs several businesses.
web music solutions offers fixed price web site deisgn and hosting
www.webmusicsolutions.co.uk
also Sostenuto:
project starts next month called routes to music.
aimed at people who are economically inactive.(ie people who are not working or not studying)
people between 18-65
series of workshops and network meetings
www.sostenuto.org
project will be free, the workshops will start in july. stourbridge west bromwich

There was a long discussion of brum music month both pros and cons. Shame no one involved showed up to talk about how it was going. Brum Music Month is an idea of well meaning people choosing a month to celebrate brum music.

Discussion of Birmingham Social Media Cafe - a regular free monthly meeting friday 26th june at the coffee lounge at the back entrance to newstreet station. 10am til 12pm. free wifi

Discussion of Black Country Social Media Cafe - regular monthly meeting

Ashley: asked question about cd manufacturing and audio mastering. suggestions made of musoplex.com, gavin monghan magic garden, cmat studios handsworth, simon hall conservatoire, and a number of other people and places.
top suggestions for venues in coventry: casbah, covscene.com(website for coventry) the phoenix, taylor johns, tin angel, the golden cross(now called the mint), dog and trumpet, the rising sun, the escape bar,

A number of ther points were raised but more detail will follow in blog posts to the www.birminghammusicnetwork.com website.

The next meeting will most likely be September as Creative Networks will be taking a break from meeting for the next few months. Details of next meeting will be posted to the site.

May 2009 Music Network Meeting Minutes

Music Network Meeting Minutes

28th May 2009

Those present:

Andy Derrick - Web Music Solutions http://www.webmusicsolutions.com/
Vince O’Malley - Musical Exchanges / Guitar Tech www.musicalexchanges.com
Colin Tippin - IFA / Musical Exchanges www.musicalexchanges.com
Jamie - Sound engineering student at TIC releasing original electronic music
Josh - Manage and play Holy Moments - punk/hardcore band from Birmingham.
Andrew Bland - re-entering the music scene in Birmingham
Clare Edwards - working on number of music projects around the country and locally - including the Hockley Flyover Show with Soweto Kinch
Simon Howes - freelance sound engineer for tv, live sound etc. www.audioguy.co.uk
Abigail Seabrook - singer and community musician and lurker
Angela - Open mic nights for original
Pete Baker - songwriter/musician

Birmingham Music Network is an unfunded network and information point for anyone working in music in Birmingham and beyond.  The room used at the TIC is kindly donated by Dave Taylor and his staff who run Creative Networks on the last Thursday of each month at the TIC, Birmingham City University, Millennium Point.  The refreshments for the meeting have previously been supported by the Musicians’ Union.  From now on, the £45 cost is being supported by local music businesses and musicians in return for advertising and exposure during the meeting and via the website.  This months sponsor is Web Music Solutions, www.webmusicsolutions.co.uk If you are interested in supporting the Birmingham Music Network in the coming months, please get in touch via the website www.birminghammusicnetwork.com

Andy Derrick - Andy launched his new company Web Music Solutions which provides fixed price affordable and accessible websites for musicians.  www.webmusicsolutions.co.uk is the place to go for more information.  He also reminded those present about his music industry advice blog www.andyderrick.co.uk and his other site www.sessionhornsdirect.com which provides brass, string, percussion and music scoring/preparation services for live music projects.

Vince - Musical Exchanges is nearing launch and will feature a proper auction site for musical instruments and equipment as well as musicians wanted etc. A successful visit to the Manchester guitar show with lots of signups for website test pilots - soft launch soon, etc. They were looking for funding and found banks not liking start ups, and they are lacking finance for PR.  They have now sold parts of the site to various investors and are  looking for investors willing to support in £1k blocks - any potential investors please get in touch via email: enquiries at musicalexchanges.com

Jamie - Birmingham Music Month - as a result of twitter conversations, June should be a celebration of Birmingham music possibly including an online compilation of original artists, covers, remixes.  Anyone interested in submitting a song, cover, putting on a gig, remix etc. a branded event in June 2009 - www.brummusicmonth.wordpress.com  @brummusicmonth is the twitter id.

Angela - community based singer songwriter - looking for open mic focused on original material.  Suggestions included: The Robin - Sunday night, The Roundhouse - Cotteridge, The Tower of Sng - Cotteridge, The Old Moseley Arms - Sunday nights, Katie Fitzgeralds - Stourbridge, The Yardbird - central brum - Tuesday, The Island Bar, near to Alexandra Theatre.

Music Network : next meeting June 25th at 4pm

April 2009 Music Network Meeting Minutes

Music Network Meeting Minutes

30th april 2009

Present:

Mark Badger (Iron Man Records www.ironmanrecords.co.uk), Simon Howes (Sound Engineer www.audioguy.co.uk), Andy Derrick (Musician/Consultant/Agent/Publisher/www.andyderrick.co.uk), Heather Wastie(Singer, keyboard player, composer, minds eye music), Ian Davies (Music photographer), Mark Strawbridge (Areboretum records, Nottingham), Harry Parsons (Student), Alex Pegg (Student), Jami Welch (Student / Musician), Jamie Hewitt (Student), David Breeze (Student), Vince O’Malley (www.Musicalexchanges.com), Lindsey Benton (Musicians Career Coach), Colin Tippin (www.Musicialechanges.com),Adrian Kimberlin (Exit Recording), Robin Valk (www.radiotogo.com), Mike Mcdonash (Songwriter, occassional performer, Concert arranger)Keisha thompson (Singer Songwriter, Poet, Performer), Abi Seabrook (Musician), Phil Montford (MD of Fordante crossover Classical)

Apologies

Anthony Hughes - screen west midlands

New Points

Andy Derrick

Sostenuto Provides information and advice to musicians, about the industry, how to move on and generate money, marketing, all sorts of things.
www.sostenuto.org.uk

www.Livemusicsolutions.co.uk - Is an innovative agency for live music.  populated by interesting querky groups that have something different about them. for public or private occasions.

www.sessionhornsdirect.com Is a horn session agency.

also www.andyderrick.co.uk blog

Simon Howes

Black Country social media cafe.: Alchemy bar in wolverhamption 12th may time: 2.30pm
30 to 50 fifty
website: www.bcsmc.wordpress.com
on twitter as bcsmc
email: blackcoun trysmc@gmail.com
all about social networking.

Aquila TV
post production house. film video editing.
cd replication. videos to broadcast/dvd/hd/ etc
www.aquila-tv.com

broadstreet bid improvement district.
after performers and musicians
www.broadstreet.co.uk
tel: 0121 693 2566

Mike Mcdonash
found an article about ringtones and mobile phones.
discussion followed about whether or not to work with compaines providing ring tones.
mentioned monobomy aqa63336  and aqa2u
If anyone wants to get in touch email: flytheflag2006@hotmail.co.uk
mike mentioned: equipment on interest free credit. www.takeitaway.org.uk
www.myspace.com/takeitawayscheme

Colin and Vince
music exchanges
workable website to be launched in the next few weeks.
features including:
musicians only networking site
auction section
find a band find a musician resource too.
what music exchanges want is some test pilots to sign up and use the site and take it apart and find out what works and feedback on how the site could be improved and iron out any bugs.
looking to build the users very quickly.
website: www.musicalexchanges.com
email address on site for interested parties.
discussion about the recovery of stolen instruments.

Mark Badger

mentioned a few items including:

Bob Barry - Birmingham based Guitar repairs and Customising

If you are looking for the best guitar repairs and customisation in Birmingham there is only one choice in my opinion.

Find your way to Bob Barry tel: (uk+44) 0121 772 4873

email: bobbarryguitars at blueyonder.co.uk

Bob Barry, 70 Fosbroke Road, Small Heath, Birmingham, B10 9JX

also www.musoplex.com

Moving Space Tours open in LEEDS and London

Vehicle Hire for the Music and Film Industry arrives in Leeds

Moving Space Tours announced the opening of a new branch in the North of England.

Based in central Leeds, the new depot will service Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield, Leeds, Bradford and all the surrounding areas. All of the vehicles on website are available, plus they are able to deliver and collect vehicles to all these locations. Buses are fully insured for use within the music industry, for any driver over 21 with a full license for use within the UK and EU. It’s clear there has been a shortage of these specialist touring vehicles in the North of England.

Tel Leeds - 0844 335 1003Tel London - 0208 205 2503

info@movingspacetours.com

http://www.movingspacetours.com

Phil Manford
looking for booking agent or tour booker
arts council interested but want to see phil with some accreditation.
discussion followed

Fairtrade Booking Agency
trying to help bands get gigs and money.
www.fairtrademusiclive.co.uk
based in coventry and some acoustic acts. working with promoters
launching on 15th may at kasbah in coventry.

Ditto Music
offer digital distribution
www.dittomusic.com
pitch on latest activities and offer of services available.

Lindsay Benton - musicians career coach. talked about what she does, how it works what services are on offer
www.bravura-group.com
also bodies on the edge. live performance and gallery of images. in coventry at coventry artsapce,
mention of website: www.lemonrock.com gig guide and good section for gigs “near me”

Mastering Studios: Green Eye Studios, Great Barr and Framework Studios at Musoplex.com

Mention of short runs of cds at dds Balsall Heath.

Next meeting will be at 4pm Thursday 28th May 2009, Birmingham TIC, Millennium Point. All Invited

Birmingham Music Network Minutes 18 Dec 2008

Attendees

Andy Derrick dandyeric@gmail.com http://andyderrick.co.uk 

Zak www.myspace.com/miss_higher 

Anthony Hughes anthonyjhughes@mac.com

Lee Parsons lee@dittomusic.com www.dittomusic.com 

Minutes

Andy Derrick spoke about the launch of his freelance work giving advice to musicians and music businesses on all aspects of the industry as well as his work as a guest speaker, arranger, composer, performer, manager and agent.  More information can be found on his website http://andyderrick.co.uk 

Lee Parsons spoke about the latest things happening at Ditto Music including their new deal on aggregation - see website for details.  Lee also spoke about the Ditto Music TV show available on SKY with previous episodes available on the website and on YouTube.

Visit www.dittomusic.com for the full SP.

Zak left information about several bands and promoters/nights:

• D.R.A.G. - a great Birmingham based punk band - www.myspace.com/dressedasagirl

• Tin Omen - Electro Goth band have a new album due for release in 2009.  Think Madonna singing for Depeche Mode

• Stiletto Promotions - Goth related events / announcements that should interest those into the Goth scene.

• The Dark Room - a great weekly Goth event held at the Giffard Arm, Wolverhampton

• For MySpace links for these and more visit www.myspace.com/miss_higher
• Check out Ryan’s Gig Guide January 2009 issue for a review of the debut album by the Hanging Dolls “Reason and Madness” 
• The Asylum have many great bands lined up to play in 2009.  See www.theasylumvenue.co.uk 

Andy reminded everyone to spread the word on contacting Mark info@birminghammusicnetwork.com to put their gig details and any other useful stuff on the Birmingham Music Network website.

The next meeting of the Birmingham Music Network is Thursday 29th January 4pm Room 436, TIC, Birmingham City University, Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham - The event is free and normally finishes at 6pm.

Creative Networks starts at 6pm in the same building and offers a chance to network with people from other Creative Industries and listen to a guest speaker.  January see Jan Faull from the BFI National Film Archive feature as guest speaker.  There is also a chance to pitch your business to the assembled guests - contact Dave Taylor on 0121 331 5400 or email creative.networks@tic.ac.uk for more info.  To register to attend, please visit www.creativenetworksonline.com 

 

November 2008 Music Network Minutes

The Music Network - Meeting Thursday Nov 27th 2008
Chair: Anthony Hughes

Introductions:
Apologies: Mark (Somewhere on the road), Andy Derrick

Sign in:
Ed Hart (Freelance Finance Director - Specialising in creative)
Simon Howes - Sound Engineer
Drew (From the Kidderminster band Oak)
Andy blakemore (Creative Launchpad)
Adrian Kimberland (Writer/Producer)
Chris Hytch(monthly urban music showcase ‘one love’)
Marcus
Emma (scratch radio (BCU)
Justin (scratch radio (BCU)
Irene (attending for Peter Singer songwriter)
Yanis (Composer Teacher/ band Frutaloka)
Gary Owen(Newgreywhistletest)
Rod (musician)
Lee Parsons(ditto music)
Darren (BCU Music Student)
Colin (music exchanges group)
Angela (singer songwriter)

New Points:
Simon howes: looking for work as a sound engineer: Contact:01902 8822 85

Drew - plays in an industrial metal band called OAK. Has two record labels showing interest in them and has just finished recording an album. Just wanted to promote wha he does and see if there are any opportunities for the band. The new video - which was made by ga production team including Anthony has attracted around 1000 hits per week -! www.myspace.com/oakweb

Emma & Justin represented ’scratch radio (BCU)’ a new Internet radio station run by the students - they are looking for content and can attend gigs to record / interview. Contact: music@scratchradio.co.uk / www.scratchradio.com.
They launch 6th Feb. There is no remit for style genre etc and has a good focus on how much unsigned content they can push. (Must be regional. They are also looking for funding.

Chris Hytch: One Love showcase supported by newstyle radio. Focuses on local r&b soul and hip hop (no ganster) reggae etc. it has been running for nearly 18months. It rotates venue and recently was part of Concrete. He is trying to find a more perminent venue.
He also manages and produces an artist called Karina - An album launched is planned.
www.myspace.com/oneloveatone
www.myspace.com/kareenauk

Marcus:
Worked in performance and music labels and is currently working with virgin on a community project.www.cyberlounge.com
He is developing streaming technology and will keep the network up to date as it develops.
cyberlounge@gmail.com

Ed Hart:
Has worked in theatre, arts and now is self employed as a consultant to creative businesses offering financial advice.
His main aim in this is convincing creatives to stick to their plan and build a sustainable business.
He delivers advice and guidance through business link support - where he can be contracted to individuals as a mentor.
contact: www.yourfbs.co.uk
He can do an initial consultation free to establish the clients needs

Yanis:frutaloka.(www.myspace.com/frutalokamusic)
Records with a latin / tropical and World Grooves band.  They currently need a flautist and trumpet player to complete/ compliment the line up.
He also asked about help with gigs and booking.
They have a gig at the drum on Feb 28th & 6th Dec - Wagon & Horses
Anthony suggestions - rural touring schemes and to look at the Arts council new strategies on world music developments.

Rod:
Is a reggae musician and has played for years in various bands. Has a solo album that needs distribution / promoting and agent and tour manager.
They also need a drummer for live shows.
www.myspace.com/rasrebelinresistance

Colin:
Music exchange - a resource to recruit and meet on line musicians. He sees it as taking the stuff that works best from all other sites
and developing a one stop for musicians needs and networkig. It is filter based along genre and geography to avoid trawling through unsuitable ads.

The second phase will be an ebay just for music instruments - auction style and a planned development into a showcase section for all genres.

Lee:(ditto)

Ditto apart from their online music promotions currently run a TV show every thursday - on SKY 180.
They are open to working with anyone - please contact
lee@dittomusic.com

September 2008 Music Network minutes

The Music Network
25th September
TIC, Millennium Point, Curzon Street, Birmingham

Attendees
Andy Derrick     -Midlands Regional Officer for the Musicians’ Union andy.derrick@musiciansunion.org.uk www.musiciansunion.org.uk

Lyndsey Hardiman     - Midlands Regional Administrator for the Musicians’ Union lyndsey.hardiman@musiciansunion.org.uk

Dave Ewer    - Creative Communications lowerarchy@msn.com www.birminghamwords.co.uk

Cameron Morgan    - Student from South Birmingham College purebreed69@live.co.uk

Abi Seabrook    - Singer and workshop leader abigail.seabrook@hotmail.com

Bob Ubki    - Singer/songwriter and project leader bobubki@aol.com

Simon Howes    - Hardware developer and acoustic engineer simon.howes.mobile@gogglemail.com

Robert Lane    - Singer/songwriter and guitar teacher rlane110@hotmail.com www.robertlanemusic.co.uk

Emma Nouriel    - Head of Music from Scratch radio emma.nouriel@scratchradio.co.uk www.scratchradio.co.uk

Justin Stainton    - Head of New Music from Scratch radio justin.stainton@scratchradio.co.uk www.scratchradio.co.uk

Pete Rhead    - Video producer from Musoplex pjrhead@yahoo.com www.musoplex.com

Andy Blakemore    - from Creative Launchpad a.blakemore@creativelaunchpad.co.uk

Perminder    - Singer for Asian films

Clare Edward    - Gigbeth www.gigbeth.com

Angela Wilson    - Singer/songwriter angellacorrina@yahoo.com

Emma Seel    - Singer/songwriter karmicenergy3@goony.com

Dave Withney    - Owner of the Roadhouse venue in Stirchley                theroadhouse@klminternet.co.uk
www.roadhousevenue.co.uk

Apologies    - Mark Sampson (in Norway)

Introduction

Andy Derrick introduced how the Birmingham Music Network works and that it was a support network for musicians.

1.    Lyndsey Hardiman asked if any of the attendees had come across pay to play in any local venues.

Abi Seabrook said she had heard of venues that make the band buy an amount of tickets.

Bob Ubki said that Rich Bitch studios wanted bands to pay for hire of the room for invited guests.

Andy Derrick voiced the opinion that pay to play takes away artists choice and is very narrow minded thinking.

A discussion ensued of what opportunities are available for Birmingham bands.

2.    Andy Derrick asked the attendees if they were aware of Surface Unsigned and what their thoughts on it were.

It was mentioned that on certain websites and blogs there is a general negative feeling.  There is a rumour that it is pay to play and that bands are required to sell a certain amount of tickets.

Robert Lane asked for people’s opinions on competitive gigs

Abi felt that even if it was competitive it was just another gig that would raise your bands profile although she would never pay to enter one.  Also that a bit of competition is a healthy thing.

3.    Bob Euby is looking to get Bhangra footage edited and put together and asked if anyone could help.

Andy recommended musoplex and Pete offered to help.

4.    Dave Ewer who is a student at Birmingham College University has taken over Birmingham Words which is a local website whose funding has been taken over by the University.  He wants to find creative people in the following areas, music, film and fiction writing.
The website is going to be re-launched over the next few months and they are hoping to bring out a quarterly magazine.  He is hoping to feature and showcase people, also to promote Birmingham.

Simon Howes recommended that he spoke to Andrew Dubber and Paul Bradshaw both of which work in the Media School.  Also that he speaks to Paul Brushwood who is a Creative teacher in the college.

5.    Pete Rhead spoke about his work at the studio Musoplex which can do everything for a musician from videos and photos to recording etc.

Andy spoke about the workshop that is happening at Musoplex on Thursday 9th October entitled ‘Everything you need to know about the music business’.

6.    Andy Blakemore talked about Creative Launchpad which helps people in the creative sector and is free of charge.  It can assist people to put together a business plan. He offered his availability to help anyone that wanted to chat.

7.    Perminder who is a singer for Asian and English film is looking for finance for films.  He spoke about his work to date and the fact that it is a very specific art form and difficult to do.

8.    Justin from Scratch Radio which is a student and community station that is trying to reflect what goes on in Birmingham.  They want to connect with people that are passionate about music and are willing to get involved.  Examples of way that people can get involved are interviewing bands and artists and going to gigs and reviewing them.  They are offering training to anyone that is interested in getting involved.  The radio station is based at the Perry Barr Campus and is going live in January 2009. studio@scratchradio.co.uk

9.    Clare Edwards came to speak about Gigbeth which is running in conjuction with Music Live.  The headlining acts are the Guillemots and the Sugar Hill Gang plus lots of local bands. There will be a conference at the Radisson Hotel on the 6th November.  Gigbeth has three stands of thought music education, how to promote your music better and music law and IP.  Clare offered to have interviewers from Scratch Radio.  Tickets are available from ticketseller.com and at Rooty Frooty’s and also from 0844 8883 883.  www.gigbeth.com

August 2008 Minutes The Music Network Meeting

The Music Network
Aug 2008 Meeting Minutes

Present:
Mark Badger (The Music Network / Iron Man Records), Andy Derrick (Musicians union), Clare Edwards (Gigbeth), Clive Shakespeare, Craig Storey, Pamela Liburd (Artist Arena), Kevin Moore (Scratch radio), Robert lane (Singer Songwriter), Pete Rhead (Musoplex Studios), Andy Ward (Musoplex Studios), Lindsey Hardman (Musicians union), Adrian Kimberline (Exit Recording), Arjender Singh Kang (Digital recording), Vince O’Malley (Musical Exhanges), Colin Tipin (Musical Exchanges)

Apologies:
Steve Hughes, Zak,

Introductions:

New points:

Zak:
The S.O.P.H.I.E charity gig at DV8 now takes place on the 14th September http://www.myspace.com/stilettopromotions

Steve Hughes
Johnny 2 Bad (UB40 Show) is the opening night of the new DOG POOL HOTEL (Formerly the Hibernian) 1065 Pershore Road, Birmingham, B30 2YJ at 8pm Saturday 6th September. 0121 471 1910

Lee Parsons
We present a weekly show on Sky , its myself and Emma Scott from Kerrang. Showcasing new music, this week we also have interviews with We are scientists, Biffy Clyro etc.
We film in Aston at 8pm and it goes out live on Sky channel 186

Andy Derrick - Network Musician Launches on Tuesday
What is it?
A free and regular discussion group for all involved with music. Come and ask questions, share experiences, exchange information - it is an ideal chance to meet others from the music industry and network.

Who is it for?
Musicians of all styles, genres and backgrounds, managers, publishers, record producers, venue owners, promoters, record companies, funders and others connected to the music business.

How do I find out more?
To find out more call 0121 622 3870 or email networkmusician@musiciansunion.org.uk

Where and when?
Stoke College, Burslem Campus, Moorland Road, Stoke-on-Trent
Tue 2nd Sept, Tue 2nd Dec, Tue 3rd Mar, Tue 2nd Jun

The Musician Pub, Clyde Street, Leicester
Wed 10th Sep, Wed 10th Dec, Wed 11th Mar, Wed 10th Jun

Confetti Studios, Convent Street, Nottingham
Wed 8th Oct, Wed 14th Jan, Wed 8th Apr, Wed 8th Jul

Cox’s Yard, Bridgefoot, Stratford-on-Avon
Tue 21st Oct, Tue 20th Jan, Tue 21st Apr, Tue 21st Jul

The Flowerpot, King Street, Derby
Tue 4th Nov, Tue 3rd Feb, Tue 5th May, Tue 4th Aug

The Drill Hall, Freeschool Lane, Lincoln
Wed 19th Nov, Wed 18th Feb, Wed 20th May, Wed 19th Aug

All meetings from 4pm – 6pm are free with refreshments provided - Sound familiar?
http://www.musiciansunion.org.uk
http://www.myspace.com/mumidlands

Andy Derrick
Midlands Regional Officer
Musicians’ Union, Benson House
Lombard Street, Birmingham B12 0QR

Tel: 0121 622 3870
Mobile: 07974 567 163
Fax: 0121 622 5361
Email: andy.derrick at musiciansunion.org.uk
Website: www.musiciansunion.org.uk

Adrian kimberline
Asked what has happened to Robin Valk and Radio To Go podcast.
Also asked about who to speak to for help with website design for music related site.
Names mentioned by those present included http://www.buildimages.co.uk, http://www.pallmallmedia.com
discussion followed

Ajender Singh
asked about training in logic pro. Musicians Union offered a number of contacts and info and also mentioned the training on offer at the NTI building. Anyone who can offer ajender help with logic pro email: ajender@blueyonder.co.uk

Musical Exchanges
http://www.musicalexchanges.co.uk have launched to help musicians find each other. adverts on the site are free for the first few months then £2 a week after that. the site is aimed at an online notice board for musicians needing to find others to form bands or replace members etc.

Pete Rhead Musoplex
Musoplex is a one stop shop for musicians and bands. The place offers pro recording studio, rehearsal rooms, photographic studio, video filming and editing, tv production, editing, promotion and a record label. Based off junction 2 near m5 to west of Birmingham. http://www.musoplex.com

Robert lane
http://www.robertlanemusic.co.uk
singer songwriter looking to work with other musicinas. Idea to start a blog about experiences of other bands at the unsigned level and stories of what happens.

Scratch radio
www.scratchradio.co.uk
email: music at scratchradio.co.uk kevin.moore at scratchradio.co.uk

New radio station will be broadcasting from january for the whole of next year. Looking for submissions from local bands and artists of all genres. submissions can be on CD or on MP3 and the station will be broadcasting as radio, podcast and on the internet. see scratchradio.co.uk for more information.

Pam Artist Arena
www.artist-arena.biz
info at artist-arena.biz
new review site, midlands based provining content including information, music and entertainment. Advertising space will be available and also online shop called beat bay.

Craig
looking for a band mention and discussion of partisans.co.uk and musofinder.co.uk
Discussion about how to get started teaching music to young people and places to try to find work in midlands. Mention of musicians union, central library, bham youth music, sandwell youth music, library,

Clare Edwards - Gigbeth

The Gigbeth Conference this year is on 6th November at the Radisson. There are three themes: Music Education and Industry links, Music Law and IP and Promoting you music. Some great speakers lined up and a fabulous VIP party afterwards with free Champagne from Harvey Nicols! More details: www.gigbethconference.com

The Gigbeth Festival is 7th and 8th November and is being held at the Custard Factory and the Digbeth Institute. Line up includes Sugarhill Gang, Stanton Warriors, DR:eam and loads more. updates on the Gigbeth website (but bear with it a few days if your having trouble - we’ve been hacked!! www.gigbeth.com

Also Gigbeth has always been about trying to bring more co-ordination to all things music in the region and has recently been awarded some funding to support and promote local music businesses (e.i venues, promoters, managers, lables etc). This is still being sorted out but Gigbeth will be finding ways to get you ideas and involve people in the project - so watch this space for more information.
Next Music Network Meeting will be Thursday September 25th at 4pm at TIC, Birmingham.

I will aim to keep the minutes short and to the point. If you want the full detail and contact numbers you will have to attend a meeting in person and take notes. Turning up will always be more productive for you than trying to read about it later.

May 2008 Music Network Meeting Minutes

The Music Network
May 2008 Meeting Minutes

Present:
Mark Badger (The Music Network / Iron Man Records), Zak (Music Journalist), Gary Seeney (Bham Yamaha Music School). Lee Phillips (Corner Studios / Rebelion records), Natasha Whalley (TIC student), Simon Howes (TIC Student), Anthony Hughes (TIC), Rob Horrocks (Einstellung / Cellar Dor), Jadecandi-Faid, K.Rueban - Kantae, Rob Taylor (Impatient management), Andy Derrick (Musicians union), Aldo Costa (Musician), Bob Ubhi (ekta usic project), Abigail seabrook (Musician), Clare Edwards (Gigbeth), Haleigh Power (Dont Call Us regional filmaker)

Apologies:
Sue Buckler

Introductions:

New points:

Anthony Hughes - creative networks:
Mentioned the free food at 6pm and detailed the talk scheduled from Pete Ashton and Stef Lewandski
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April 2008 Music Network Meeting Minutes

April 2008

Music Networking Minutes

Present: Jake Dubber, Zak (Miss Higher Productions), Gary Seeney (Plug and play pomo, melting ice management, Birmingham Yamaha Music School), Andy derrick (Musicians Union), Mark Badger (The Music Network), Raymond Clarke (Singer Producer songwriter), Nick Dunn(horus Music), Emma Nouriel (Scratch Radio), Kevin Moore (Scratch radio), Les Hutchins (Composer performer), Marc Bhatti (TIC student), Damian Jennings, Jenna Varndell, Nzinga (Queen of the Crop), Natasha Whalley (BCU), Lee Phillips (Cornerstudios / Rebellion Records), Adrian Kimberlin (Exit Recording), Stephen Markham(Sempre Entertainments Ltd), Mike Mcdonagh (Independent), Andy Blakemore (Creative launchpad)

Apologies: Anthony Hughes, Andy Ward (Musoplex.com), Issi (TIC), Paul Spicer (LNP), Andrew Dubber (BCU), Clare Edwards.

Note: Next Meeting 29th May in room 360 on 3rd floor of TIC

Andy Derrick - Musicians union

Talked about Soweto Kinch and forthcoming Creative Networks event upstairs from 6pm.

Musicians union provide coffee and biscuits for the network meetings.

Recent MU events in Stoke on trent and Kettering big success. Events dealt with Royalties and Copyright. Mention of Andrew Dubber’s presentation and how inspirational it was for those attending the event.

MU will be launching “Network Musician” in September in partnership with The Music Network.

Tues 2nd september Burslem College, stoke on trent

wed 10th sept the musician leicester

wed 10th oct confetti studios, nottingham

tues 21st oct cox’s yard, stratford on avon

tues 4th nov the flowerpot, derby

wed 19th nov the drill hall, lincoln

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