WAMCon Focus: Kristy Brown

Organisation: North Metropolitan Tafe - Lecturer, Music Business

How did you first become involved in the music business and how did you end up where you are today? I started in 2007 via major label Sony, where I worked as a Project Manager in a very cool online department in Sydney. I progressed my career over numerous years and now enjoy teaching others.

What's been the biggest change in the music business you've seen over the past 12 months? It seems to be even harder for people working in the industry to pull a wage, even more so now with WA slowing down, revenues from releases being minimal and opportunities to perform being limited.

What do you think will be the biggest issue affecting the music industry in the next 12 months and why? Are people talking about music itself? Music doesn't seem to have the audience it used to. People just don't seem as interested. With so many other things to enjoy at our fingertips, music is suffering.

What advice would you give young practitioners in your area starting out today? Diversify. Have numerous skills and training in your toolbox. Everyone needs money. Find a way to make money that supports your music, until your music can support you.

What will you be primarily discussing during your appearance at the WAMCon? The panel looks at starting and successfully running a new or emerging music business. I aim to present some ideas for DIY marketing and opportunities for making money.

What are you hoping that people will be able to learn from your panel/interview? I would like attendees to learn some new ideas that they could try in developing their own music businesses and careers. 

What do you personally hope to take away from your time at WAMCon? I love the whole experience at WAMCon. I appreciate others coming from far and wide to share their experiences and knowledge. I enjoy the networking, it confirms to me that our industry rocks!

Which acts are you most looking forward to checking out at WAMFest? I am a fan of Lilt, and of course our very own Mathas. I can't wait to see POW! Negro. And Bats. And Scalphunter always delivers a smashing show... soooo muuuch, how can we pick?!