CONFERENCE: 2019 East Coast Music Conference (ECMC) - VA

JUST ADDED!  Ice T will be joining Seymour Stein as co-keynote speakers on Saturday, May 11. 

The East Coast Music Conference is May 9 - 12, 2019 in Norfolk Virginia. The ECMC is truly a new type of conference in terms of access, technology, the opportunity for musicians at all levels, and bringing artists together with new fans in real time. Over 7,300 were on hand for our inaugural year to attend conference seminars, workshops, networking and concerts at nearly a dozen unique venues including breweries and rooftop shows.

ECMC 2018 attendees were surveyed afterward and overwhelmingly reported benefitting from the conference, loving the music and venues, and a desire to return in 2019. Many artists made touring connections and friends from around the U.S. & beyond. ECMC 2018 hosted artists from 20 U.S. states & 6 countries. Many were relatively unknown.

Programming includes a variety of industry experts. 2018 included Gold & Platinum certified industry pros and cutting-edge innovators in the DIY space, all teaching artists how to be more successful in the music industry as it exists now. The expo will have the latest in equipment & tech demos. Artists with music & merch for sale will be able to have it on sale all weekend and at any offsite performance. Various media opportunities are possible. Several ECMC 2018 artists were interviewed for television & print and within just weeks of ECMC 2018, several received additional, major show and media opportunities.

In addition to the public concerts, artists may also be selected to participate in listening parties, sponsor & other exclusive parties, performances at partner attractions in the region, and other unique opportunities.

All genres are encouraged to apply! We look first for quality music and strong stage presence regardless of style. We’re eager to work with artists who are early in their career and looking to expand their knowledge, contacts, and fanbase. We’re rapidly developing a reputation for finding artists on the way up. That could be you.

Up to 50 Sonicbids artists will be invited to play the event. All artists who are selected will also receive conference passes – a $99 value per member. Any artists who apply but are not selected will receive 50% off conference passes.

The heart of the conference is Granby Street, where artists and industry pros will find invaluable programming by day and participate in amazing showcases by night. For 2019 we are adding new and exciting venues. There will be nearly a dozen stages throughout Downtown Norfolk for up to 100 artists to perform over 4days! 

Backline provided at larger venues, sound provided at all venues.

Compensation Details: ranges from $0 to $100 + conference passes for the entire weekend for all band members and 1 manager. Admission to after parties and special events will be provided as space allows. A small number of artists may be offered more than one show.