Some History

Who puts on the conference?

The organization and planning of the conference centers around the MBS 179 class. Though primarily music industry and recording majors are involved with the creation of the conference, students of all majors are invited to participate in the planning. The student clubs MISA (Music Industry Students Association) and AES (Audio Engineering Society) serve as foundations to the conference.

The students also work in synchronization with the college newspaper, La Vie, that puts out a special conference edition containing the schedules and locations of the panels throughout the day, as well as interviews and articles pertaining to the industry and guests.

History

In 2003, the music industry and recording students of LVC and Albright College decided to host the first regional conferences for the music and entertainment industry students association. The first conference was co-hosted by LVC and Albright with attendance of around 80.

In 2004, LVC became the host with approximately 100 attendees.

In 2006, the LVC students decided to have yearly music industry conferences named LVC-MIC. It has grown every year in scope, attendance, subjects, and respect. Highly respected professionals from all portions of the industry have noted the organization and zeal of the students who host the conference. The newly signed SONY band Nevertheless talked about being signed and performed a benefit show after the conference.

In 2007, a class was created to create and host this event. All aspects of organizing and hosting a major event are learned in a true real-world setting. The seniors of the class lead specialized teams working on marketing, finances, A&R, facilities, and more. The skills learned are passed down from class to class.

In 2008, with a theme of Independents Day, 200+ attendees were welcomed by a new Harley Davidson motorcycle in the lobby. Harley was a major sponsor of the conference. Panelists ranged from Harry Dean (DJ Q-ball) of the Bloodhound Gang to Martin Atkins, drummer for Nine-inch Nails.

In 2009, the fifth conference at LVC featured a lunch performance by a member of the band LIVE (Adam Kowalczyk) and a drum clinic with Matty Longo. Nan Warshaw, CEO of Bloodshot Records came in from Chicago to take part in the conference as well as meet with classes the following week.  The biggest success though was how the students improvised and overcame the logistics of lunch. The LVC lunch halls couldn’t be reserved because of other events on campus, so the students found and secured an old fire station close by for the lunch. Found and set up tables, guided the attendees, and served the lunch.They also were able to get Papa Johns to provide free pizza. It’s problem solving like this that provides real learning opportunities and a sense of accomplishment.

Panelists

Panelists come from all parts of the industry and from all over the nation. The students contact potential panelists based on specific areas of the industry of interest.

Networking with those serving on panels or in workshops have led to many internship and job opportunities, as well as avenues to hand out CDs and bios of bands and music.

High School Students

In collaboration with the college admissions office, a special arrangement has been made for any high school student looking to get into the industry. Hearing the true reality of what is taking place in the industry is invaluable for any student or parent with such interests.

Food

Coffee is provided during registration, and meals are provided for lunch (also hosted by the students). Various options for type of lunch are provided to accommodate special food needs and vegetarians.

Students provide live entertainment during lunch. The main purpose though is for students and guests to be able to sit and interact on a one-to-one basis with panelists.