Music Talks at Treefort Music Fest brings the industry’s brightest minds together to discuss the future of music and help artists build thriving careers.
Whether you are an artist on the lineup, a new artist, hobbyist, music fan, or industry insider, everyone is welcome to participate in Music Talks. All Music Talks (with the exception of one) take place during the day in Boise Centre East and are free and open to the public (no wristband required, but we highly recommend getting a 5-day pass).
Here are a few exciting Music Talks that are happening at Treefort Music Fest 2024 and you can scope the full event lineup, participants and schedule here!
Making Music Pay: Royalties, Resources, and Redefining Artist Services
This conversation will address the challenges faced by working musicians in today’s industry. This talk will delve into the complexities of royalty administration, explore the financial and health services that could provide crucial support to artists, and examine the need for publishers to expand their services to better serve the needs of independent musicians. Those in attendance will gain valuable insights from industry professionals and a working artist on how we can create a more sustainable and equitable landscape for musicians
• Thur. 3/27 @ Hemmingway Center (at BSU) | 1:00pm
Punk, Post-Punk, and Psychedelia: The Soundtrack of a Disjointed Peru
Featuring Peruvian psych outfit, Moldes.
• Thu. 3/27 @ Hap Hap Lounge | 2:30pm
DIY Burnout: Building Community as a Path to Success in the Music Industry
Presented by Midtopia The journey of a DIY artist or music professional often feels like an endless grind – juggling creative work, booking shows, marketing and more. This relentless hustle can lead to burnout, derailing not only personal well-being but also long term goals. However, leaning into community building can be a game-changer, providing support, shared resources and sustainable growth. A thriving community doesn’t have to conform to traditional, exploitative industry practices. Instead, it can be built on mutual respect and shared independence, empowering individuals to collaborate without sacrificing their values or autonomy. Learn how mutual support, collective action, and a culture of care can transform your DIY journey, providing a network of like-minded independents who understand your challenges and champion your success.
• Fri. 3/28 @ Boise Centre East | 11:00am
Not An Overnight Success: How to Build an Enduring Career
Presented by The Recording Academy Pacific NW Chapter In an industry obsessed with hype and “it” factor–where a single viral moment can catapult an artist to fame overnight–it’s easy to feel discouraged by the daily grind of building a sustainable career. But success isn’t just for the lucky; with strategy, persistence, and resilience you can create a meaningful, long-term career in music. This panel brings together musicians and industry professionals who have faced setbacks, adapted to an ever-evolving landscape, navigated the harsh realities of the industry–putting in the years of work necessary to thrive. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to future-proof your career, this conversation will offer insights about longevity in the music business and the power of playing the long game.
• Fri. 3/28 @ Boise Centre East | 12:15pm
Navigating the Modern Music Landscape
In today’s fast-paced, ultra saturated music scene, independent artists face the challenge of standing out and making their mark. Join a group of seasoned industry professionals as they explore what it truly takes for artists to break through the noise, from building a fanbase to leveraging innovative strategies for success. This panel will also dive into alternative career paths in the music industry for those who aren’t musicians, but still want to make an impact. Whether you’re an artist, aspiring industry professional, or just curious about the behind-the-scenes action, this discussion will offer valuable insights. Stay for the breakout session afterward to network and continue the conversation with experts and peers alike.
• Fri. 3/28 @ Boise Centre East | 1:30pm
Building Belonging: Organizing Our Communities for Safer Events
Presented by Western States Center From minority-owned businesses and publicly owned venues to small-town Pride celebrations, events and venues are increasingly under pressure from bigoted and anti-democracy groups. However, what event organizers excel at – bringing people together for shared experiences that can build a sense of purpose and belonging – is a key ingredient in strengthening local democratic institutions and building community. Using case studies, Western States Center will lead a discussion with Idaho venue owners on effective strategies to ensure safe and inclusive community spaces can thrive despite threats from actors promoting bigotry and violence.
• Sat. 3/29 @ Boise Centre East | 11:00am
Breaking Bands: How to Ascend Amid a Music Industry in Freefall
Unsure, confused or just downright frustrated about how to make progress with your music project when the rules of the game seem to be changing on a daily basis? Not sure how to approach various outlets to have the best chance at getting coverage, and ultimately get your music connected to those who need to hear it? You’re not alone: Regardless of genre and tenure, all musicians are struggling to keep up with massive changes like the contracting of music journalism, the upending of social media and a seemingly endless array of new communication platforms. Few industries reinvent themselves with the frequency — and, oftentimes, clumsiness — of the music business. Trends come and go, but what remains consistent is that every year brings a new set of challenges to artists trying to break through. Is social media doing bands more harm than good? Should new groups be wary of overexposure? How much self-promotion should musicians take on themselves — and when do they know when it’s time to hire a publicist, agent and/or manager? Or will AI deem all these questions obsolete by this time next year? Join DJ Atticus from esteemed Seattle radio station KEXP; Nina Corcoran, an associate staff writer at Pitchfork, cohost of the podcast Punk This Week, and contributor to additional publications, – including Rolling Stone, Wired, NPR, Stereogum, and more; and digital marketing wizard Phoenix Bain of Definity Real Agency in a particularly timely panel discussion moderated by rock journalist Kurt Orzeck (FLOOD, The Big Takeover, Boise Lifestyle).
• Sat. 3/29 @ Boise Centre East | 12:15pm
If It’s Not Written Down, It Didn’t Happen: Everything You Want (and Need) to Know about Contracts
Presented by University of Idaho Law School Contracts are the backbone of a sustainable creative career—they govern your relationship with your bandmates, record labels, producers, agents, and venues. But contracts can be intimidating, impossible to understand, or even scary. This interactive session will help demystify key elements of contracts, including when to use them, what to look for, and when to call for help. Industry experts will provide real-world examples, with the majority of time dedicated to answering your questions. Whether you’re performing for drink tickets or signing a 5-figure sync deal, this session is your guide to protecting your craft with confidence.
• Sat. 3/29 @ Boise Centre East | 1:30pm
