Take your career to the next level with Surrounding Sound: Level Up. Join us for a free, one-day professional development conference designed specifically for early- to mid-career practitioners working in contemporary classical, jazz, improvisation, and sound art.

Building on the AMC’s flagship online series, this in-person event brings together leading voices in the music industry for a day of practical workshops, insightful panels, and real-world case studies. You'll gain clarity on how to build a sustainable creative career, with sessions focused on essential topics like strategic planning, fundraising, audience development, music export, and regional touring.

Plus, this conference will include full catering and networking opportunities to connect with peers, industry leaders, and potential new collaborators.

Whether you're shaping your first touring project or looking to scale up your next release, Surrounding Sound: Level Up offers valuable tools and strategies to grow your practice.

Doors: 8:30am
Conference: 9am-5pm
Networking event: 5pm-7pm

Cost: Free*
Travel Bursaries: Available for regional NSW-based attendees (covering travel and accommodation). Click here to find out more and apply.
Registrations are essential.

*The Australian Music Centre is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the promotion and support of art music in Australia. Please consider making a small donation with your registration to support our work for Australian music.

Surrounding Sound: Level Up is proudly funded by the NSW Government through Sound NSW.

Conference Schedule

Time	Event
8:30am	Doors open
9:00am	Welcome
9:05am	A Brief Introduction to ICIP with Nathaniel Andrews (NATSIMO) and Meeghan Oliver (AMC)
9:30am	Strategic Planning for Art Music Creators with Jacqueline Thomas-Piccardi (Cinque Arts Management) and Luke Tierney (Tier1 Arts)
10:15am	Morning tea break
10:30am	Panel: Grants and Fundraising moderated by Paul Mason, with Frankie Airey (Philanthropy Squared), Michelle Boyle (Creative Australia), David Everist (Create NSW), Peter Keogh (Sound NSW), and Sally Piper (Music Australia)
12:00pm	Pitching Your Creative Work with Emily Tulloch and David Boyce
12:45pm	Lunch break
1:45pm	Panel: Exporting Art Music moderated by Glenn Dickie, with Jeremy Rose, Claire Edwardes, and Fabienne Krause (Classical:NEXT)
3:15pm	Regional Touring with Joe Muller (Music NSW)
3:45pm	Afternoon tea break
4:00pm	Growing Your Audience with Mardi Caught (The Annex) and Ross McHenry
5:00pm	Networking Drinks

FAQ

I'd like to attend the conference, but won't be able to attend for the full day. Can I book to attend specific sessions instead?
Surrounding Sound: Level Up is programmed and ticketed as a full-day event. We encourage you to attend the full day to make the most of the industry learning and networking opportunities. You are welcome to register for a ticket even if you are able to attend a part of the day. To ensure we can deliver the best experience for everyone, please notify us at events@australianmusiccentre.com.au if you are planning on attending a portion of the day.

Will there be any catering services available throughout the event?
Yes. Catering will be included as part of your registration. Attendees will have access to tea and coffee upon welcome. The conference includes catered breaks for morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, and networking event at the end of the day.
Please note: we will try our best to cater to specific dietary requirements if you let us know your preferences in advance. However, if you have high-risk allergies, we recommend binging or sourcing your own food, as the catering is provided by a third party.

Can I ask questions about accessibility?
Yes! We encourage you to ask any questions or share any concerns about access. Please contact us on events@australianmusiccentre.com.au. Our team is here to help and ensure your experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.