Athens Music Week returns from 7–10 May with its most ambitious edition yet. As the only international music event of its kind in Greece, AMW brings together artists, audiences, and professionals from across the music ecosystem for four days of discussion, discovery, and live music.
This year, the event takes to the streets of Athens. Conference sessions will be hosted in key cultural venues, including the historic Olympia Hotel, ETERON, and the Karatzas Amphitheatre. Meanwhile, the Showcase programme takes over Kerameikos each evening, featuring over 40 acts from Greece and abroad. AMW25 focuses on the evolving relationship between humans and technology. Talks, panels, and workshops will cover topics such as AI, funding challenges in the creative industries, artist development, mental health, and global music trends. There is also a dedicated spotlight on Athens’ electronic music scene, presented in collaboration with AFEM.
Workshops offer practical insights for artists at all stages, from creative development to music production, promotion, and visual identity. Participants can also join collaborative sessions, including group vocal improvisation and hands-on music video production using AI tools.
Collaboration is key: How independent labels drive artist success
Moderator:
In an industry that’s constantly evolving, independent artists and labels must work together with intention and clarity. This panel looks at how collaboration between artists, labels, and professionals is helping to build careers, share risks, and stay independent for longer.
We’ll look at how independent labels are adapting, growing sustainably and finding new ways to generate income. From resource-sharing and audience development to cross-border partnerships, we’ll unpack what’s working and why.
Independent labels and self-releasing artists will gain useful perspectives on how working collectively can support the local scene and lead to opportunities beyond national borders. Expect a practical conversation with real takeaways, grounded in experience and focused on action.
Live plays, real income
Panellist:
When your music is played live – whether by you, a DJ, or another performer – you could be earning royalties. One gig can be worth more than 30,000 Spotify streams.
This session will show you how to claim these royalties. We’ll explain how to report setlists, register with the right collection societies, and use music recognition tools to track plays at clubs and festivals.
This could be the most lucrative session you attend. If you’re the songwriter, you’re owed the money.
Looking to hear more about Athens Music Week, or to get involved?
***Past event - Panellist***
ESNS 2025: (Still) hard out here: Paving the way to gender equity in music // How to overcome the 'isms': sexism, ageism, classism...Friday, 17 Jan | 13:30 - 14:30 | Oosterpoort, Groningen
Based on MiDIA Research’s Be The Change study, this panel delved into the persistent challenges of achieving gender equity in the music industry. It examined barriers to entry for women, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming individuals, as well as the difficulties of staying in the industry. Topics included caregiving responsibilities, the effects of menstruation and menopause, freelancing challenges, and the lack of compassionate leave. Panellists shared findings, personal insights, and actionable strategies for driving meaningful and lasting change.
***Past event - Interview***
Key takeaways from “Professional networking in the music industry: Building genuine connections that last", an exclusive interview with Mika Karhumaa.
Hosted by Mandy Salem-Aubry. I had the privilege of joining Mika Karhumaa on December 12, 2024, for an insightful discussion about optimising professional networks in the music industry. Here are some key takeaways: Networking is non-linear: Success often comes from unexpected connections. Be authentic online: Consistent, knowledge-driven content matters more than popularity. AI and algorithms matter: Platforms like LinkedIn use AI to track and enhance visibility. We also explored LinkedIn strategies, the importance of a well-structured website, and using different platforms for distinct purposes (e.g., LinkedIn for business vs Instagram for artists).
Mika Karhumaa is the acclaimed author of The Art of Music Business Management – For Artists & Managers, Music Business Management Lecturer at Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences and Artist Manager at IRENE.
