Veteran manager Mike Smith to host Artist Management Conference

Michael Smith & Associates announces its annual Conference on Artist Management (A Christian Music Industry Summit) to be held September 26-28, 2003, at the Factory, 230 Franklin Road, in Franklin, TN. This intensive course, taught by leading professionals who work in all aspects of the music industry, is designed to teach artists, managers, and mentors how to nurture and manage all aspects of an artist's career.

Mike Smith, President of Michael Smith and Associates, who has helmed the careers of Christian artists such as Salvador, Chonda Pierce, and Charles Billingsley feels that the biggest need in the music industry today are more well-trained artist managers and industry people.

As Smith explains it, "The manager is the one component of an artist's career that interfaces with every aspect of the industry. A talented manager knows how to balance the requirements and demands of a successful career with the needs of the artist, and is responsible for building the most effective team around the artist-including publicists, accountants, labels, booking agents, writers, and producers."

The purpose of the Conference on Artist Management is to teach the fundamentals, as well as advanced strategies, including the philosophy and "art" of artist management. The conference includes sessions on all facets in the behind-the-scenes dealings of artists and those who self-manage.

The guest speakers confirmed for this year's events are a virtual who's who of the music community, and conference attendees will get the once-in-a-lifetime chance to interact with their peers. The panelists include: Barry Landis, President of Warner Bros. Christian Division, who oversees all aspects of A&R, production, marketing, sales, promotion, and finance for all of the albums within the Warner Music Group; Charles Dorris, of the acclaimed William Morris Agency, will be speaking along with Christian artist Jamie Statema of Go Fish; John Styll, acting President of the Gospel Music Association; Dan Keen, Assistant Vice President/ASCAP; Lannie Cates, entertainment lawyer; Tom Jackson and Allison Anderson, Tom Jackson Productions; Louis LaPrad, LaPrad Art Direction & Design; and Dave Bunker, Wheaton College/Music Conservatory.

Enrollment is limited with discounts to early birds, alumni, and students. For curriculum information, a complete list of panelists and registration forms call 615-794-5763 or check out the website at www.michaelsmithandassociates.com.