Independent Music Sector Charts Course for Growth at IMPALA & RUNDA Adria Summit
The independent music industry convened in Zagreb, Croatia, recently for a pivotal series of meetings hosted by IMPALA and RUNDA Adria. this all-day event culminated in the first-ever European Independent Music Summit, backed by the EU’s creative Europe program, and focused on securing a thriving future for independent music businesses across Europe.
This gathering wasn’t just a talk shop; it was a strategic session bringing together key players - EU policymakers, the European Investment Fund, representatives from the independent music publishers’ trade body IMPF, and leading music companies from the Adria region – to collaborate with IMPALA members. The core goal? To address the challenges and opportunities facing the independent music sector and forge a path toward sustainable growth.
Key Participants & Recognition
The summit saw strong representation from across the independent music landscape. Here’s a look at some of the organizations involved:
* dallas Records (represented by Nuno Saraiva and Filipa Rodrigues)
* SOM (represented by Eva Karman reinhold)
* STOMP (represented by Kees van Weijen and Luciano Winter)
* Sugar Music (represented by Andrea Cotromano)
* UFI (represented by Sonia Durán)
* UPFI (represented by Guilhem Cottet and Laure Cavaillé)
* VTMÖ (represented by Alexander Hirschenhauser)
* VUT (represented by Jörg Heidemann and Henrietta Bauer)
* Wagram Music (represented by Stephan Bourdoiseau)
Beyond the business discussions, the event also took time to honor significant contributions to the industry. A special tribute was paid to the late Horst Weidenmüller, founder of !K7, recognizing his pioneering work. Merlin was also commended for its commitment to sustainability through the Weidenmüller Sustainability Fund.
Furthermore, Jeremy Sirota received recognition for his leadership as former CEO of merlin, notably highlighting the recent AI licensing agreement with Eleven Labs – a deal built on voluntary participation from Merlin members.
Addressing the Future of Independent Music
The discussions centered around a clear ambition: to establish Europe as the premier destination for music businesses. Several critical areas were explored, including:
* Financial Access: Improving access to funding for independent labels and artists.
* Market & Regulatory frameworks: Creating a level playing field and addressing unfair practices.
* Diversity & Discoverability: Boosting visibility for diverse artists and genres.
* Geographical Equity: Addressing regional disparities within the European music market.
* Cultural & Creative Business Growth: Developing strategies to nurture Europe’s creative industries.
As IMPALA Chair Dario Draštata, President of RUNDA Adria and Executive Director of Dallas Records, stated, “Our goal is for independents to grow and for our artists to have a level playing field.”
expanding Participation & Navigating AI
IMPALA’s new board representative scheme aims to broaden participation and incorporate fresh perspectives. President Francesca Trainini,Vice President of Italian association PMI,emphasized the importance of brainstorming a thorough framework for AI licensing.
“Our goal is to make sure independents have the resources and opportunities they need to grow-from improved access to finance and independent distribution to better conditions in the market,” added IMPALA Treasurer Geert de Blaere, from Belgian association BIMA.
This focus on AI licensing is particularly timely. The industry is grappling with the implications of artificial intelligence, and ensuring fair compensation and ethical practices is paramount. The voluntary agreement with Eleven Labs demonstrates a proactive approach to navigating this complex landscape.
A Crucial Moment for the Independent Sector
The summit underscores a critical juncture for independent music in Europe. By fostering collaboration, addressing key challenges, and embracing innovation, IMPALA and RUNDA Adria are working to empower independent labels and artists, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable future for the industry. You can learn more about the future of the independent music sector in this report.
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