WAMCon Focus: Esti Zilber

Organisation: Sounds Australia - Associate Producer

How did you first become involved in the music business and how did you end up where you are today? I started working in music as the EA and office manager to Michael Chugg. After a couple of years the opportunity came up to work at Sounds Australia and it was a perfect fit. 

What's been the biggest change in the music business you've seen over the past 12 months? Our fluctuating dollar and the uncertainty surrounding Federal support for our sector has been an enormous challenge this last year. 

What do you think will be the biggest issue affecting the music industry in the next 12 months and why? I think we are going to be hearing a lot more about streaming services and playlists, there's ongoing issues surrounding US visas, as well as the challenges outlined above.

What advice would you give young practitioners in your area starting out today? Put your hand up for any and all relevant experience you can get your hands on, and be polite and courteous to absolutely everyone as you navigate your way up.

What will you be primarily discussing during your appearance at the WAMCon? Looking at touring in the US; the challenges, opportunities and options available to Australians looking to break the market.

What are you hoping that people will be able to learn from your panel/interview? I hope they can take away a very realistic overview of how much hard work it takes to make any kind of impact in the US, and some personal industry tales highlighting difficulties and success.

What do you personally hope to take away from your time at WAMCon? Looking forward to discovering some excellent WA talent and meeting the next batch of artists and industry with sights set on international activity in 2017 and beyond.

Which acts are you most looking forward to checking out at WAMFest? I'm going to do my best to get to as many as possible. We work across so many varied genres and showcasing events, I want to see them all!