Sonik Session brings together music experts and Filipino creators for a boutique conference and artist showcase
On the upcoming 18th of August, an exciting collaborative effort between 22 Tango Music Group, the British Council in the Philippines, and Sonik Philippines is set to unfold as they present Sonik Sessions: Music Export 101. This unique event combines a boutique conference with an artist showcase, uniting international music experts, Filipino artists, and creators to engage in a dialogue about the transformative power of music and how to propel Filipino talents to the forefront of the global music landscape. Marking a significant step forward, this event will take place at Making Space in Cebu City, marking the very first Sonik event to venture beyond the confines of Metro Manila.
In its second edition, Sonik Sessions seeks to empower Filipino creators with knowledge that can amplify their impact in the music industry. Focused on the concept of ‘music export,’ the conference will delve deep into the intricate process of promoting and distributing music in foreign markets, elucidating strategies for showcasing and marketing artists to audiences beyond their native borders.
This forward-looking theme found its roots in the experiences of Filipino music aficionados and the organizers themselves, who participated as British Council delegates in the recently concluded Great Escape Music Festival held in the vibrant city of Brighton, England.
Guiding the discourse of Sonik Sessions: Music Export 101 are two eminent figures: the gifted singer-songwriter and founder of 22 Tango Music Group, Cattski Espina, and the enterprising musician and founder of Homonym, Mike Constantino. Following their enriching participation in the Great Escape delegation, Cattski and Mike were inspired to create this event with the intention of imparting their newfound insights and wisdom to the burgeoning Filipino artist community.
Reflecting on the inspiration behind the event, Mike enthusiastically shares, “My experience abroad left me invigorated by the potential that lies within our grasp, especially in collaboration with the EU and the UK. It’s a remarkable opportunity to take Sonik beyond the confines of Manila and share the lessons we’ve gathered from our time at the Great Escape through Sonik Sessions in the vibrant city of Cebu.”
Cattski further elaborates on her mission, stating, “I am deeply committed to exploring the realm of Music Export as a way to pivot my artistic vision towards embracing diverse cultural influences. Ultimately, I aspire to become a cultural ambassador, facilitating the exposure of Filipino music to a global audience. The inception of Sonik Sessions provides an ideal platform to commence our journey in music export, amplifying the presence of Filipino artists on the world stage.”
Mich Dulce, the Head of Arts at the British Council, elucidates the overarching mission of the organization, emphasizing its dedication to fostering collaborative growth and artistic exchange between the UK and the Philippines. She shares, “The Philippines boasts a wealth of untapped talent and boundless potential that deserves to be showcased on a global scale. As we continue to cultivate shared experiences and insights, we eagerly anticipate the promising trajectory of Filipino artists, drawing strength from our collaborative efforts and the reciprocal sharing of creative ingenuity between the UK and the Philippines.”
Sonik Sessions is poised to emerge as a dynamic platform, providing a vibrant arena for both seasoned veterans and emerging talents in the realms of music, art, and creativity to converge. This event is primed to showcase the diverse tapestry of inspirations and breakthroughs that drive these creators forward. Central to the event’s essence, four distinguished luminaries from across the globe will take center stage, offering their invaluable insights and expertise. These notable figures will illuminate prevailing industry trends and unveil global best practices, fostering an atmosphere of collaborative learning and artistic evolution:
- Fil-Brit publicist, consultant and international music marketeer from EMPIRE Cat Lazarra will elaborate on what music export is;
- Another Fil-Brit – singer and producer RJ Belo of State is Flow London will share his experiences and dreams of bridging UK Asian artists with other cultures
- Founder of SRM Booking and Services and co-founder of AXEAN Music Showcase Festival Satria Ramadhan will share how to grow music and fanbase in foreign markets;
- FOCUS Wales’ co-founder and music programmer Andy Jones will talk about applying and participating in music festivals and conferences; and
- Primavera Pro’s head of partnerships and programming Camila Anino will discuss how government support fuels the exploration of Filipino music.
Wrapping up the proceedings, the event will culminate in a captivating singer-songwriter and artist showcase, spotlighting the exceptional talents of Cebu’s finest creatives.
Sonik Session: Music Export 101 stands as an accessible event, open to all, and will be seamlessly broadcasted in real-time on the official Facebook platforms of 22 Tango Music Group, Sonik Philippines, and Homonym.
