Waves Vienna 2025: The Complete Conference Guide

10:00 – 11:00
Breaking the Silence: Abuse of Power in the Music Industry
Brunnenpassage

Power imbalances and their abuse have always seemed inextricably linked to the music industry. The cases that have come to light in recent years are a renewed wake-up call to urgently address these conditions.

This panel deals with strategies to counteract existing and future abuses of power. Therefore, insights from the music industry gained by Ines Fernau (cute concerts) and Sophie Rendl (Frauen:domäne) will be combined with the expertise of Sonja Eismann (author of the book Candy Girls. Sexism in the Music Industry) and founder of Missy Magazine). The panel will be moderated by the artist Yasmin Hafedh, aka Yasmo.

Speakers: Ines Fernau (AT), Sophie Rendl (AT), Sonja Eismann (DE)
Moderator: Yasmin Hafedh aka Yasmo (AT)

10:00 – 11:00
Feedback Listening Session 1
Tagada Club

International professionals give constructive feedback on up-and-coming acts with international potential. To take part in this session you have to apply. Check in for more info coming soon.

Moderation: Bettina Schöll (AT)
Speakers: Stine Mühle (DE), Marlon Burton (UK), Camila Anino (ES)

11:00 – 13:00
Funding Hacks for Creative Projects
Café Concerto Wintergarten

Funding and investment in the creative industries is not getting easier but it now demands sophisticated strategy to put different types of funding together. Working across creative sector is also a way to access more funding and increase revenues. Let’s have an overview of funding in Europe for digital content including AV, Music and Games.

Hosted by Vienna Business Agency

Speakers: Christoph Muck (AT), Thierry Baujard (DE)

11:30-12:15
“What are you willing to give for art?” presented by Clouds Hill
Tagada Club

What counts more today – streams or attitude, trend awareness or artistic vision?

In an industry in which algorithms are increasingly deciding what becomes visible, artists and labels are coming under increasing pressure, A willingness to compromise and adapt to current trends often seems indispensable for success – but where is the freedom that art actually needs?

This panel asks about the conditions under which music is created today – and what price visibility, reach and success really have. How much room is left between platform dependency and self-realisation? How do sustainable connections to fans develop?

Clouds Hill discusses together with guests, which paths are possible: How can real artistic development be given space again? What does it take to turn fans into real communities, and what happens if we stop trying? What are we – as artists, labels and decision-makers – prepared to give for art? Do we need the courage to rethink?

Moderation: Yasmin Hafedh aka Yasmo (AT)
Speakers: Steffi von Kannemann (DE), Carlo Giulio Sossella (AT), Johann Scheerer (DE), Bettina Ruprechter (AT)

12:00-13:00
Spotlight Distribution: Understanding Music Distribution: Deals, Partners & Platforms
Brunnenpassage

As part of this year’s Spolight on Distribution of the Waves Vienna Conference, we’d like to present distribution channels for music productions, but also discuss problems, risks and opportunities.

Get to know the key players in music distribution – from global majors to independent distributors. What types of deals are out there? How do different distributors work? And what sets them apart?
This Pecha Kucha-style panel brings together national and international voices from both physical and digital distribution to give you a rapid, insightful overview of today’s landscape. Whether you’re an artist, label or manager, this session will help you understand how to choose the right partner to get your music out into the world.

This year’s conference spotlight is dedicated to the backbone of the music cosmos: distribution.
Whether physical or digital, music distribution remains the indispensable bridge between artists and their audiences – and understanding it is key to navigating today’s industry. This panel is your gateway into that essential conversation at Waves Vienna 2025.

Moderation: Franz Hergovich (AT)
Speakers: Desiree J. Vach (DE), Peter Gruse (DE), Christoph Enzinger (AT), Tina Koppelin (AT), Simon Semrau (DE), Frank-Peter Leffler (DE), Lisa Riepe (DE), Hannes Müller (AT), Torsten Mewes (DE)

12:00-12:45
Colombia Work Exchange Presentation
Fania Bar

Presentation of the Colombia Work Exchange Program, implemented by Waves Vienna with funding from LiveMX and the European Union. We present the program itself, the outcomes and possible next steps.

Moderation: Robert Marksteiner (AT)

12:30-13:30
SynchClinic
Tagada Club

Europe in Synch (https://EuropeInSynch.net) is a European initiative dedicated to knowledge transfer and networking between the worlds of music, film, television, advertising and games. Workshops and networking missions are held across the continent to dispel myths and misunderstandings about music synchronisation (‘synch’) and to make the selection and licensing of music more accessible and easier for both sides. In addition to explaining why Europe in Synch exists and what it has achieved in recent years, Waves Vienna will host the ‘SynchClinic’ – a public Q&A session with experts from the field of synch, true to the motto: Everything you always wanted to know about synch.

Moderation: Hannes Tschürtz (AT)

13:00-13:45
Digitising the Festival Experience: NFC Wristbands & Data in Action
Fania Bar

Discover how festivals are being transformed through NFC wristbands and real-time data analytics. This session dives into how these technologies enhance crowd management, streamline access control, and provide actionable insights to improve operations and audience engagement. 

Speakers: Fridolin Drucker (AT), Tibor Brosz (DE)

14:00-15:30
Stress and Balance in the Music Industry: A Group Session
Café Concerto Wintergarten

Working in music can be as demanding as it is inspiring. Deadlines, uncertainty, financial pressures, and the constant drive to deliver often take a toll on our well-being. This small group session offers a safe, confidential space to reflect on how stress affects us in our professional and personal lives. Together, we’ll explore ways to recognize early signs of burnout, share strategies for coping, and connect with peers who understand the unique realities of the industry.
Apply to take part here: https://podio.com/webforms/28817163/2327890

Speaker: Rosana Corbacho (ES)

14:00-14:45
AustroVinyl Workshop
Fania Bar

In this workshop, practice and technology come together: from special audio preparation and mastering for vinyl to differences and further to digital formats and the steps in the pressing plant. All relevant processes are explained in an understandable way. Participants will learn why vinyl has special technical requirements and how these affect the sound. Dynamic and frequency adjustments, overdubbing times and level optimization will be covered. The workshop is supplemented by practical tips and a look at pressing plant practice. how a high-quality vinyl record is created from an audio file. Ideal for producers, sound engineers and music makers who want to understand and use the sound and craft of vinyl.

Speaker: Peter Wendler (AT)

15:00-16:00
Ohne Ehrenamt keine Clubkultur?!
Fania Bar

In 2023, 192 volunteers at the Acoustic Lakeside Festival were classified by the financial police as undeclared employees – with the threat of heavy penalties. The case caused a stir and raises questions: at what point does voluntary work in clubs and events become an employment relationship, and what are the consequences for non-commercial structures? These structures depend on volunteers – whether at the entrance, bar or backstage. If legal pressure increases, a diverse and accessible club culture is at risk. This panel discussion will address current challenges and the necessary framework conditions for the future of independent club and festival formats.

Moderation: Alexandra Rodriguez (AT)
Speakers: Tobias Fortunits (AT), Clara Hofmann (AT)

15:45-16:45
Ticketmaster Reception
Tagada Club

Ticketmaster is the world’s leading ticketing provider and is part of Live Nation Entertainment, the largest live entertainment company in the world. Live Nation Entertainment comprises three global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts and Live Nation Media & Sponsorship. Our ticket platforms bring 500 million tickets annually into the hands of fans in 29 countries – and provide the optimal ticketing solution to artists, venues, festivals, sports clubs and leagues, theatres, exhibitions and other cultural and recreational institutions.

Speakers: Markus Winterer (AT), Ole Feltes (DE)

17:00-18:30
German Showcase Artist Pitch & Reception
The Loft Upstairs

Come join us and meet the Germans! German Music Export by Initiative Musik and the pop music funding agencies Musicboard Berlin, popNRW, Pop-Büro Region Stuttgart, RockCity Hamburg, and Verband für Popkultur in Bayern invite you to this year’s German reception. Discover exciting new artists from Germany at our pitching session, then mix and mingle with other industry professionals, artists and fellow music lovers.

10:00 – 11:00
Feedback Listening Session 2
Tagada Club

International professionals give constructive feedback on up-and-coming acts with international potential. To take part in this session you have to apply.
Application online here: https://podio.com/webforms/28817140/2327884

Moderation: Bettina Schöll (AT)
Speakers: Carolyn Bates (UK), Henning Dietz (UK), Jean Charles MEDINA (FR), Jan Hagerodt (DE)

10:30-11:30
Song Contest, Sound Economy: Opportunities for the Austrian Music Scene
Brunnenpassage

In German

Der Eurovision Song Contest 2026 bringt die internationale Aufmerksamkeit auf Wien –  doch was bedeutet das für die heimische Musikbranche? Im Panel diskutieren Expert*innen über wirtschaftliche Effekte, neue Karrierechancen für Artists und die langfristige Sichtbarkeit österreichischer Musik. Welche Potenziale ergeben sich für Labels, Veranstalter*nnen und Kreative – und wie kann die Branche den ESC als Sprungbrett nachhaltig nutzen?

Speakers: Peter Schreiber (AT), Michael Peterseil (AT)

11:00-12:00
Sync Smart – How to Collaborate with Music Supervisors as an Indie
Fania Bar

Landing a sync deal can be a game changer—but how do you get your music in front of the right people? This panel explores how independent labels, artists, and publishers can effectively collaborate with music supervisors. What assets and metadata are essential? Is a pitch deck needed? How do you approach supervisors the right way? Gain practical insights into expectations, industry standards, and the do’s and don’ts of sync from both sides of the table.

Moderation: Hannes Tschürtz (AT)
Speakers: Isaac Allaway (UK), Everton Lewis Jr. (CA)

11:15-12:45
Spotlight Distribution: UMG/Downtown – What’s all the fuss really about? Hosted by VTMÖ
Tagada Club

As announced at the end of 2024, UMG plans to acquire Downtown Music, home to FUGA, CD Baby, Songtrust and other services much loved and used by DIY artists and independent labels across the industry. The EU has opened a formal competition investigation into this acquisition. Trade bodies representing independent labels, authors and composers, artists, managers and independent publishers are calling for the deal to be stopped. Our speakers will explore why this particular acquisition is being investigated by the European Commission, where we are in the process and whether or not this should be a cause for concern for the music sector.

Moderation: Alexander Hirschenhauser (AT)
Speakers: Jess Partridge (UK), Matthieu Philibert (FR), Maria-Jose Schmidt-Kessen (AT)

12:00-13:00
Navigating Visibility: Black Artists in European Music Markets
Brunnenpassage

This panel sheds light on the experiences of Black artists navigating music markets in Europe. From systemic barriers to representation and recognition—what are the realities across countries like the UK and Austria? We’ll discuss challenges, successes, and what structural changes are needed to create a more inclusive and equitable music industry. Hear from artists and professionals shaping the conversation and pushing for visibility and change.

Moderation: Smaranda Krings (AT)
Speakers: Mwita Mataro (AT), Marlon Burton (UK), Adem Holness (UK)

13:00-14:00
Career Compass: Strategic Foundations for Going International
Tagada Club

Going international takes more than talent—it requires strategy, timing, and the right support network. This panel focuses on the foundational steps artists and their teams need to consider when building an international career. From identifying key markets to preparing for showcases, securing funding, and finding the right partners—get insights from professionals who’ve successfully navigated this path and learn how to map out your own global journey.

Moderation: Jess Partridge (UK)
Speakers: Annemarie Reisinger-Treiber (AT), Cesar Andion (ES)

13:00-13:45
Rola Music Workshop
Fania Bar

ROLA MUSIC has been shaping and supporting artists across Europe for over 15 years – from first steps to international growth. In this panel, the team will share detailed insights into their approach to artist development and reveal what it takes to build a sustainable career across borders. The conversation will look at how artists can grow within Europe and, in particular, what Austrian acts need to consider when setting up their careers beyond Austria. Drawing on ROLA’s long-standing experience, the panel will highlight their way of working in tour booking, PR and digital marketing, offering a look behind the scenes at the processes that help turn emerging talent into established artists.

Moderation: Dominik Schmidt (AT)
Speakers: Rokko Konrad (AT), Eva Oswald (AT), Marie-Theres Weiser (AT)

13:30-14:30
Shaping Queer Sound: FLINTA* Artists at the Forefront
Brunnenpassage

From hyperpop’s glossy chaos to experimental R’n’B’s intimate textures, from queer techno’s dancefloor politics to the fractured beats of deconstructed club – FLINTA* artists are at the forefront of redefining music’s visual and sonic aesthetics. The Eurovision Song Contest plays a key role in bringing these aesthetics into the spotlight, influencing mainstream pop on a massive scale. This panel explores how identity and lived experience shape sound design and push artistic innovation beyond the mainstream.

Moderation: Micòl Didi (AT)
Speakers: ÆNGL (AT), Andrea M. Junker (AT)

13:30-14:30
Upbeat Speed Meeting
Café Concerto Wintergarten

This session allows artists from the Upbeat network to meet with international music industry representatives. Apply here to participate in the speed meeting session.

Moderation: Ian Smith (AT)

14:15-15:15
Sounds from the Edge: Music and Identity on the Faroe Islands
Tagada Club

The Faroe Islands may be small and remote, but their music scene is bold, unique, and full of creative energy. This session offers a glimpse into the islands’ vibrant musical identity, blending tradition and innovation. We’ll also screen the short film “Always Outnumbered, Never Outgunned” – a raw and intimate portrait of a Faroese band making their mark at The Great Escape 2024.

Speaker: Glenn Larsen (FO)

14:30-15:30
How to Showcase in the UK
Fania Bar

The UK remains one of the world’s most influential music markets — but breaking in requires the right strategy. This session offers practical insights on how to prepare for and succeed at UK showcase festivals, from choosing the right event and building local connections to navigating visas, funding, and industry expectations. Learn directly from experts how to make your showcase in the UK a powerful step for your international career.

Moderation: Ian Smith (AT)
Speakers: Carolyn Bates (UK), Kitt Carr (UK), Adem Holness (UK)

15:30-16:30
AKM Come Together!
Delegates Lounge

17:00-18:15
Spanish Fiesta
Wirr Brunnenmarkt

Let’s bring the southern sun to Vienna by enjoying drinks and connecting with the Spanish delegates!

18:00-19:00
MuFA Come Together
The Loft Upstairs

00:00-2:00
Taylor Swift Listening Session: The Life of a Showgirl
The Loft Upstairs

Taylor Swift is dropping a new album (aren’t we all still stuck on ‘loml’?!) and we’re launching into the next era together! Each song will be ‘Ours’ as we listen through them individually and discuss them afterwards (‘I think you should speak now!’, we want your opinion!). It’s going to be glittery and beautiful, come in your TS outfits if you want and bring your friendship bracelets!

Moderation: Sarah Moussa (AT)

11:00-12:00
French Pitch Breakfast
Speisen ohne Grenzen

12:15-13:30
Let’s discuss cultural policies! Networking meet-up powered by ÖMR
Delegates Lounge

Speaker: Sophie Katharina Schollum (AT)

14:00-15:00
ESNS Austrian Heartbeats
Die Lucia

14:00-15:00
Gürtel-Tour
rhiz

Join us for a walk along the Wiener Gürtel to explore its iconic venues and rich history. Once a neglected area, the Gürtel has been revitalised through the URBION project, blending historical preservation with modern design. Discover the restored stone arches of Otto Wagner’s former city railway and experience how this vibrant space connects different parts of Vienna. The carefully lit facades and public spaces now highlight the Gürtel’s transformation into a dynamic hub for club-cultural and entertainment hub.

15:15-16:15
Wine Tasting Session
Delegates Lounge

16:30-18:30
pop KulTOUR

In German

Der zweistündige Walk & Talk führt uns zu Locations, die das pop- und subkulturelle Leben der vergangenen 70 Jahre in Wien stark geprägt haben. Gemeinsam mit dem Musik-Nerd, Plattensammler und Hobby-Musikhistoriker Geri Hollerer wandeln wir auf den Spuren legendärer lokaler Musiker:innen, ohne deren Pionierleistungen es die blühende gegenwärtige Wiener Szene vielleicht gar nicht gäbe. Vom frühen Rock’n’Roll und Beat der 60er Jahre, über die Gründung der ersten Hip Hop-Formationen in den späten 80ern, bis hin zur Hochphase der Wiener Elektronik in den späten 90er Jahren: Auf der Wien Popkultour durch Ottakring erwarten uns jede Menge Insider-Stories, lustige Anekdoten, Song-Beispiele, Fotos, Flyer und natürlich auch Platten zum Durchstöbern.

Die Tour startet um 16:30 Uhr am Schuhmeierplatz 17/18, 1160 Wien (Straßenbahn-Linie 46, Haltestelle Schuhmeierplatz) und endet um 18:30 in der Grundsteingasse 60, 1160 Wien. 

Guide: Gerald Hollerer (AT)

16:30-18:00
The Gap Pop-Quiz
Café Concerto Wintergarten

The Gap Magazine is hosting the perfect event to put your Pop Music knowledge to the test. Come by and come prepared!

17:00-18:00
VTMÖ EXTENDED: Indie labels and indie publishers – management and live sector
Wienstation (Delegates Bar)

Austria’s indie labels invite the “music management” and “live” sectors to join forces and become even stronger. The goal is to represent the interests of the Austrian independent music industry.

The VTMÖ management team will present and discuss this project with all interested parties. Get involved and help shape the future!

Moderation: Alexander Hirschenhauser (AT)

WAVES VIENNA CONFERENCE

Waves Vienna