BIGSOUND: Andy Farrow

Business: Northern Music Co Management

Position/Title: Managing director

How did you first become involved in the music business? I was in a punk band, ended up booking and promoting the gigs, naturally drifting into management, signed a band to a major at 22. Became professional in 1988.

What do you perceive to be your area of expertise, and how did you gain experience in this field? Contract negotiation, marketing, tour planning and monetising income streams in a declining album sales market. Gained experience by doing this for over 25 years and managing bands that have achieved international acclaim and total sales of over two million units.

Is this your first BIGSOUND? Yes.

What will you be primarily discussing during your appearance at the BIGSOUND conference? I’m on the rock/metal panel, so I will be discussing how to break bands internationally.

What are you hoping that people will be able to learn from your panel/interview? I’m hoping I can give them an insight into releasing albums and touring internationally and showing them ways to monetise other income streams.

What are you expecting to take away yourself from your visit to BIGSOUND? I’m expecting to do a lot of networking and see some great Aussie bands.

Check The Music App for all BIGSOUND 2014 Panel and Keynote details.