WAMCon Focus: Sarah Tout

Organisation: RTRFM 92.1/solo artist/Simone & Girlfunkle — broadcaster, guitarist & vocalist

How did you first become involved in the music business and how did you end up where you are today? I began volunteering for RTRFM 12 years ago, and have been playing in bands since 2009. I've met heaps of incredible people, many of whom I've been lucky enough to play with and collaborate with.

What's been the biggest change in the music business you've seen over the past 12 months? The shift to digital distribution and the evolution away from CDs has been marked. It's really interesting to observe that more vinyl is also happening, and more people want to buy it.

What do you think will be the biggest issue affecting the music industry in the next 12 months and why? Funding. There's an attitude that music should be free to consume, yet the costs of production are considerable. We need to collectively lobby for more sustainable models that produce great art and support the artist.

What advice would you give young practitioners in your area starting out today? Learn as much as you can, find mentors, listen to what your peers have learned. Get an accountant. Get a lawyer. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, and who want to help you.

What will you be primarily discussing during your appearance at the WAMCon? I'm going to be moderating a panel on international distribution and am excited to see what the panelists have to say.

What are you hoping that people will be able to learn from your panel/interview? That there are useful, effective strategies to getting your work out there. If you have a plan and the right information you can get your work to the people you want to hear it.

What do you personally hope to take away from your time at WAMCon? Anything I can learn!

Which acts are you most looking forward to checking out at WAMFest? Everyone!