Westminster Music students participate in international music business conference and performance showcase in Norway

Bringing together students, university colleagues and a select few industry guests from the University of Westminster, the University of Agder, Norway and Sibelius Academy, Finland, the event encouraged students from across the North Sea to think innovatively to bring about solutions to the music industry’s most pressing issues. The format included presentations, guided workshops referred to as Hive Minds, group discussions and collaborative conclusions.

This year’s KRS Open was organised around four thought-provoking topics spread across two days. Each topic followed a structured progression, beginning with a video introduction by Adger students to set the stage, followed by a case study or guest reaction to bring real-world insight. Then, a Hive Mind workshop provided an interactive brainstorming session where attendees worked in small groups to explore solutions, a group discussion and conclusion to wrap up findings, and lastly, a presentation of highlighted solutions to the group.

The first day dived into the challenges of generating income in the live music industry, featuring insights from Jess Partridge, Executive Director at the European Music Managers Alliance (UK). Later, Julie Forchammer from Klimakultur addressed the intersection of art and environmental responsibility. The day concluded with a live performance, showcasing student artists from the universities. Alumnus Samuel Virgo, also known as Svirgo19, and alumna Latipher Nakawuka, stage name Latipher, who both recently graduated from the Music Performance, Production and Business BA Honours course, impressed the audience with their first ever sets outside the UK.

Samuel said: “I feel very blessed to have had this opportunity. I had the chance to meet loads of new people and perform new music to new faces with my band.”

The second day explored alternative ways for artists to connect with fans without an overreliance on social media, guided by Malena Wolfer of Pockets (UK). The final topic delved into the trend of catalog sales and the implications of artists maintaining control over their music. A student-led activity in the afternoon and a mixer event with the Kristiansand Roundtable Conference (KRC) closed the event, providing networking opportunities and a relaxed setting for further discussion. Students were able to share their expertise and learn from their peers.

KRS Open preceded the annual KRC and was an opportunity for both students and alumni to make new connections abroad and widen their network, with educators, peers and seasoned music professionals all participating.

Andy Inglis, CEO of 5000 Management and Co-Founder of KRS Open, said: “We were delighted to have such an engaged, thoughtful and academically creative group from the University of Westminster with us at the KRS Open. Their generosity of spirit toward their peers was both inspiring and hugely appreciated.”  

Maria Del Mar Rebellion, Music BA student said: “My experience at KRS Open gave me great insights into the music industry and expanded my view on current problems that the industry is facing. Meeting amazing professionals who shared their insights and career advice was invaluable. I am grateful for the opportunity to expand my perspective and gain knowledge that I can bring into my career.”

This international music business conference directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education and 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.

Find out more about studying Music at the University of Westminster.