Set yourself up for success as a songwriter in 2024 with an event designed for songwriters looking to take the first steps in their music careers. The Ivors Academy presents a two-panel event featuring professional songwriters and industry experts who will share crucial insights on what it takes to turn your passion into revenue. The event will be hosted at ICMP, Queen’s Park.
You’ll receive advice on how to approach the early stages of your career—from honing your craft and building connections to managing the realities and challenges of the industry. Our panellists will discuss the hardships many songwriters face, including financial instability, understanding royalties and publishing deals, creative block, and rejection. They will provide guidance on staying resilient and navigating these challenges. Additionally, they’ll explore practical ways to support yourself while pursuing your passion, along with highlighting the resources, support systems, and funding opportunities available to help you along the way.
Following the discussions, there will be a networking session where you can connect with fellow aspiring songwriters, exchange ideas, and build relationships that will help you grow and collaborate as you start your career. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for guidance, this event offers the advice and connections you need to set yourself up for success as a songwriter in 2024.
The Ivors Academy is committed to championing, supporting and educating songwriters and composers. Click here to find out more about membership and how to join.
Meet the Panellists…
Kal Lavelle
Irish-born singer-songwriter gained significant attention early in her career by touring with her friend Ed Sheeran. A sought-after collaborator, she has a writing credit on Sheeran’s multi-platinum single ‘Shivers’, which topped the charts globally. The song also earned them a Variety Hitmakers Award, two wins at the BMI Awards, and two nominations at the Ivor Novello Awards. Currently signed to Sony Publishing UK, Kal’s authentic style and passion for human connection are evident in her songwriting. These talents have brought her into writing rooms with Jazzy, Mae Stephens, Cian Ducrot, SIGMA, and Izzy Bizu.
Matthew Whiteside
A composer, collaborator, sound designer, concert producer and mentor based in Glasgow, boasting a broad array of awards and accolades – Also a member of the Musicians’ Union Executive Committee and lobbies for the rights of composers and creators. As the author of The Guidebook to Self-Releasing your Music – Matthew’s knowledge is invaluable for early stage songwriters beginning to explore the complex industry landscape. The book is a must-have resource for ‘first timers’ looking to release their music. The book focuses on the areas that musicians can manage themselves, and highlights the potential benefits and pitfalls along the way (self-published of course).
Wozzy Brewster
Recipient of Music Week’s Women in Music Roll of Honour (2018) and Honorary Freewoman of the London Borough of Lewisham – Founded The Midi Music Company in 1995, a music education and talent development based in Depford where she is executive director. Wozzy works with emerging talent to become professionals within the music industry, having worked with Steam Down, Yussef Dayes, Shingai Shoniwa (The Noisettes), DJ Ng, Oggie, Kae Tempest and many more. She is a member of the UK Music Diversity Taskforce, BPI Music Export Growth Scheme (MEGS), BRIT Voting Academy and on the panel of the Music Managers Forum Manager’s Acceleration programme, as well as being a co-founder/Board member of the Black Association for Arts UK (BAFA UK). Wozzy’s extensive experience supporting young songwriters has given her vast knowledge on support available those in the early stages of their career.
