Somewhere Festival & Conference Reveals 2025 Lineup with Panels, Workshops & Speakers

The Somewhere Festival & Conference, taking place June 13th to 14th in Downtown Wichita, is proud to announce its dynamic lineup of panels, workshops, and featured speakers. This year’s programming is designed to empower artists, music workers, and industry professionals while fostering creativity, inclusivity, and social change. The conference, which is a separate admission from the festival, will provide attendees with a series of thought-provoking discussions and hands-on learning experiences aimed at transforming the future of the music world.

Throughout the two-day event, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with industry leaders and experts as they explore a wide range of topics, including the importance of freedom of expression in music, mental health awareness, local community-building, and alternative career paths within the music world. Panels and workshops will provide valuable insights into navigating the evolving music industry landscape and will delve into the ways in which artists are shaping the future through innovation, activism, and creative expression. The conference is being produced and programmed by Marauder.

Somewhere Festival & Conference Reveals 2025 admat

PANELS:

The conference will feature a series of thought-provoking panels designed to explore key issues in the music industry. With discussions led by thought leaders and industry experts, these panels will cover critical topics like social change, mental health, and building community through music.

Aloe Blacc Fireside Chat:

In a must-attend session, Aloe Blacc will sit down with Chase Koch to reflect on his 30-year career in music and his continuous pursuit of social change through artistry. The conversation will explore Aloe’s journey and how he uses his platform to advocate for justice.

Alternatives to Music Education:

Not all successful careers in music require a formal education. This panel will feature professionals who have built their careers through non-traditional paths, exploring how creativity and hands-on experience can serve as powerful educational tools in the music industry.

At-the-Show Marketing:

Engaging with fans in person can lead to meaningful connections. This session will discuss how to capture the attention of concertgoers, turning them into long-term fans using creative and non-intrusive marketing methods.

Freedom of Expression in Making Music:

This panel will dive into how artists are using music as a powerful tool for social change and personal expression, from addressing socio-political issues to navigating personal challenges. Industry leaders and artists will share how their music reflects their values and activism.

Home Growing a Music Community:

A thriving local music community can help propel the careers of artists and music professionals. This panel will examine ways to build a self-sustaining music scene that stands out on a national level.

Local Marketing Methods:

Your community is often the first place to find loyal fans. This panel will cover strategies for building a local fan base and engaging your community to create a sustainable music career.

Marketing and Networking Outside of Social Media:

Social media may be a cornerstone for promotion, but this panel will explore alternative strategies for building an audience and networking, ensuring that artists can thrive without being constantly tied to digital platforms.

Music and Mental Health:

Navigating the emotional and psychological challenges of working in music can be tough. This discussion will focus on techniques for self-care, managing stress, and maintaining mental health in a high-pressure industry.

New Pathways in Music:

As the industry continues to evolve, this panel will examine how artists and music professionals are redefining success by embracing new career models that prioritize personal growth and community impact over traditional success metrics.

Paradigm & Social Changes in Music:

Change often starts from within. Panelists will discuss how artists and industry leaders are leveraging their platforms to create more inclusive and supportive spaces within the music world.

WORKSHOPS (RSVP-ONLY WITH LIMITED CAPACITY):

The conference will also feature a series of hands-on workshops aimed at developing practical skills for music professionals, covering everything from touring logistics to personal branding.

Getting PR Ready:

Effective public relations are essential for growing an artist’s audience. This workshop will teach participants how to craft their story, pitch effectively, and engage with the media.

How to Route a Tour:

Touring can be a logistical challenge. This session will guide artists through the steps to plan a successful tour route, find the right venues, and ensure a smooth tour experience.

Make Yourself Presentable—Branding as an Artist:

Branding is crucial for creating a recognizable and memorable identity as an artist. This workshop will explore the steps to build a personal brand and engage with fans in a meaningful way.

Placing Your Gear Up to Tour:

Preparing for a tour can be a daunting task, but this workshop will offer practical tips for packing and organizing gear to ensure smooth touring experiences.

We’ll Loop It Live!:

For musicians who are interested in experimenting with live looping, this demo will show you how to incorporate live looping into your performances and recordings.

Working in a Collaborative Studio Space:

A collaborative studio environment can spark creativity and productivity. This session will focus on how to create and maintain an effective, inspiring space for music creation.

The conference will feature a dynamic roster of speakers and panellists, including:

• Aloe Blacc (Artist)
• Chase Koch (Founder, Movement Musick & Stand Together Music)
• Talia Keys (Artist)
• Jessie Hartke (CEO, Midtopia)
• Marquis Bradley (Brand Ambassador, Somewhere Festival & Conference)
• Ayisha Jaffer (Talk Show Host, NPR’s Louisville Public Media)
• Portia Sabin (President, Music Business Association)
• Jessica Tomasin (Founder, Connect Beyond Festival/Jet Up Productions)
• Rynda Laurel (SVP, Artist Relations, KiTbetter / The Creative Catalyst Co)
• Element Everest-Blanks (HYFIN Music Director / Global Music Delegate, Radio Milwaukee)
• Lindsay Jamieson (Director of Branding, Midtopia)

…and many more industry experts, artists, and advocates. For a full list of speakers, click HERE.