Conference - Riga Music Week

First day – November 5, 2025
Second Day – November 6, 2025

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RIGA MUSIC WEEK x KIT'25 OPENING

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Agnese Lāce – Minister of Culture of the Republic of Latvia
Viesturs Kleinbergs – Mayor of Riga
Vilnis Ķirsis – Deputy Chairman of the Riga City Council
Representative of Riga Investment and Tourism Agency
Fruzsina Szép – Lollapalooza Berlin & Superbloom
Agnese Cimuška–Rekke – Music Latvia & Riga Music Week

Cracking the Sync Code: How to Get Your Music into Film, TV, Ads and Games

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Moderator: Thea Zaitsev – Tier Music, Estonia

Panelists:

Magdalena Niestryjewska – Music Supervisor, Sync Specialist, Poland
Patricia Carrera – Music Supervisor, Sync Expert, Mexico
Nuno Saraiva – Consultant, Lusitanian Music Publishing, Portugal
Andrii Zaitsev & Oleksandr Volkovintsev – Geisha Ninja Samurai, Ukraine

Music synchronization — its use in films, TV shows, commercials, video games, and digital content — has become one of the fastest-growing sources of income for musicians and rights holders. A successful sync deal not only generates significant revenue but also allows music to reach entirely new audiences around the world. But how does this industry actually work, and what steps should artists and their teams take to be considered for such opportunities?

MUSIC, SECURITY AND SOFT POWER: BETWEEN DIPLOMACY, PROPAGANDA AND THE CREATIVE ECONOMY

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DISCUSSION IN LATVIAN

Moderator: Kristīne Garklāva, TV3 journalist, LV

SPEAKERS:

Agnese Lāce – Minister of Culture of the Republic of Latvia
Baiba Braže – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Latvia
Ģirts Majors – Positivus Music

Music is far more than just entertainment – it has become an essential part of security, cultural diplomacy, and the creative economy. The discussion will explore how music can serve as a soft power tool and act as a cultural ambassador internationally, while also examining its potential as a weapon of propaganda. A key question will be raised: Is the significant presence of the Russian language on Latvian radio our own mistake and a failure to suppress propaganda? Panelists will also examine the importance of setting national music quotas and the role of cultural diplomacy in shaping a country’s image. At the heart of the conversation lies the challenge of balancing creative freedom with the interests of public security and cultural sustainability, while strengthening the creative economy as a vital sector of national development.

SPEED MEETINGS: MEET THE MENTORS (For showcasing artists and their teams only)

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Mentors:

Martin Schuhmacher – Nettwerk, Germany
Steve Budd – Record Producer, United Kingdom
Juliana Volož – JV-Promotion, Estonia, Germany
Toomas Oljum – Made in Baltics, Estonia

The educational project “ELT Academy”, developed by the music company Every Little Thing, provides Riga Music Week, showcasing artists and their teams with mentoring from local and international industry experts.

The mentoring programme is designed to help participants understand the showcase festival format — how it differs from a regular festival, how to prepare effectively, deliver a strong performance, and make the most of networking opportunities before, during, and after the event.

As part of the programme, Speed Meetings with Mentors will give artists a chance to meet several professionals one-on-one, gain personalised advice, and build valuable international connections for their future development.

The mentoring programme is supported by the Latvian Performers’ and Producers’ Association (LaIPA) Culture and Education Fund.

Registration opens on October 27.

“Useless Music Knowledge” by Hannes Tschürtz

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Book Presentation – “Useless Music Knowledge” by Hannes Tschürtz

Join Austrian music professional and author Hannes Tschürtz (Ink Music) for an insightful and entertaining presentation of his new book “Useless Music Knowledge.” Combining humor, experience, and cultural reflection, Hannes explores the fascinating and often absurd truths of the music business — the stories, patterns, and lessons that every artist and industry insider will recognize.

THE ROLE OF MEDIA IN ARTIST CAREER DEVELOPMENT: FROM LOCAL AIRWAVES TO GLOBAL PLATFORMS

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Moderator: Toms Treibergs, TVNET, Latvia

Panelists:

Michel Attia – FM4, Austria
Darek Mazzone – KEXP, USA
Pascal Bertin – Independent Journalist, France
Matti Komulainen – Finland
Artis Volfs – Radio SWH, Latvia

Radio airplay, print and digital media, podcasts, television, and social media channels – all of these remain essential tools in building a music career. But how is the role of media changing in 2025, and how can local artists make use of both domestic and international channels to reach new audiences? How do media help to build trust and recognition, and what are the most effective strategies in today’s oversaturated information landscape.

AI’S IMPACT ON MUSIC IN 2025: LICENSING, CREATIVITY, AND INDUSTRY SURVIVAL

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Moderator: TBC

Panelists:

Liena Edvardsa – LaIPA (Latvia) – Latvian Performers’ and Producers’ Association, the neighboring rights organization in Latvia
Urmas Ambur – EEL (Estonia) – Estonian Association of the Phonogram Producers (neighboring rights organization)
Agnė Begetė – AGATA (Lithuania) – Lithuanian Neighbouring Rights Association for Performers and Producers
Ilona Pētersone – Head of Copyright Department, Ministry of Culture (Latvia)
Rob van Dongen – Dikhoff Van Dongen Advocaten, The Netherlands

How is artificial intelligence changing music creation and the industry? This panel will discuss AI as a creative tool, its impact on authors’ and performers’ work, and the new legal and copyright challenges emerging in the digital age.

“Life in Technicolor: A Celebration of Coldplay” by Debs Wild

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Book Presentation – “Life in Technicolor: A Celebration of Coldplay” by Debs Wild

Join Debs Wild, the woman who first discovered Coldplay, for an inspiring presentation of her book “Life in Technicolor: A Celebration of Coldplay.” Blending personal stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and reflections on the band’s creative journey and sustainability efforts, Debs offers a heartfelt look into one of the world’s most iconic groups — and what it takes to build a lasting career in music.

PLAYLIST POWER: GETTING YOUR MUSIC HEARD IN THE STREAMING ERA

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MODERATOR: Andis Ansons – Bel Tempo, Latvia

Panelists:

Jan-Hendrik Vervelde – Soave Records, Netherlands
Rachel Cartier – Halcyon, former Head of Music at Deezer, France
Guillaume Warmerdam – LAB Music, MakeWaves.fm, Vokall Records, Netherlands
Raj Kaljani – Global Records, SoundCampaign, Vibora, India

Playlists can make or break a release — but how do you actually get on one? Especially in the Baltics, where there are no local New Music Friday or official editorial playlists? This panel dives into the real mechanics of the playlist world — from editorial curators at major platforms to the growing network of independent tastemakers who decide what gets heard.

Learn how curators discover new tracks, what makes them pick a song, and how you can build genuine relationships that lead to playlist placements. We’ll also explore how to become a curator yourself, grow your following, and build your own influence in the streaming ecosystem. Whether you’re an artist, manager, or DIY label, this session will show you how to turn playlists into a powerful tool for visibility, fan growth, and long-term strategy.

Funding and Its Accessibility for the Music Sector in the Baltic States

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Moderator: Hannes Tschürtz – Ink Music

Panelists:

Agnese Cimuška–Rekke – Music Latvia, Latvia
Vaidas Stackevičius – Lithuanian Music Business Association, M.P.3 Agency, Lithuania
Becci Scotcher – PRS Foundation, United Kingdom
Suzette Das – First Music Contact, Irish Music Export, Ireland
Keren McKean – We Make Music Work, United Kingdom

For artists, managers, and music companies, access to funding can make the difference between a promising idea and a fully realized project. But what funding opportunities are actually available in the Baltic States, and how can music professionals successfully access them?

From public cultural funds and international programs to private sponsorships and EU-level initiatives, the funding landscape is complex and often challenging to navigate.

In this panel, representatives from each of the Baltic States will share insights into the current state of funding opportunities within their national music ecosystems. We’ll also hear case studies from the UK and Ireland, exploring how they developed the funding structures they have today — and what lessons can be applied in the Baltics.

“Rokupācija” by Uldis Rudaks

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Book Presentation – “Rokupācija” by Uldis Rudaks

Uldis Rudaks, one of Latvia’s most respected music journalists and critics, presents his book “Rokupācija” — a vivid chronicle of Latvia’s rock and alternative music scene. Combining sharp observation with deep personal insight, Rudaks captures the spirit, rebellion, and cultural evolution of a generation that shaped Latvia’s modern music identity.

From Streams to Superfans: Practical Audience Building

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Moderator: Britte Mainema – MakeWaves.fm, Netherlands

Panelists:

Anne Schneider – Nettwerk, Germany
Debs Wild – Coldplay (Fan Liaison), UK
Sebastian Krol – Fanklubb, Backseat, Germany
Ansis – Hip-hop artist, Latvia

Building a loyal audience goes far beyond streaming numbers, radio plays, and media coverage. The real challenge for artists and their teams is turning casual listeners into engaged fans who buy tickets, support releases, and keep coming back. But what does audience development actually look like in 2025 — and how can artists in Latvia and the Baltics build meaningful communities around their music, both online and offline?

In this panel, industry experts will share insights into fan engagement, audience strategy, and sustainable growth — highlighting practical approaches that move beyond vanity metrics toward long-term, genuine relationships with listeners. From community building and storytelling to data-driven tactics and low-budget strategies, this discussion will explore how artists can cultivate real loyalty and resilience in today’s fast-changing music landscape.

Differences and Common Ground: Baltic Ticketing

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Moderator: Mārtiņš Spuris

Panelists: Līga Blaua, Biļešu Serviss, Latvia

Panel & Networking Session: Market Access – Spotlight on Mexico

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Moderator: Tamara Kamińska – Music Export Poland, Poland

Panelists:
Valeria Ramos – MUSICMEX, MalfiCo, Mexico
Michaël Spanu – MUSICMEX, Bahidorá Festival, France, Mexico
Patricia Carrera – Spanish-Speaking Music Supervision Association, Mexico

Mexico is one of the fastest-growing music markets in the world, with a vibrant live scene, expanding streaming numbers, and a unique cultural landscape. But what does it take for artists, managers, and companies from the Baltics and Europe to successfully access this market?

In this session, we’ll hear insights from Mexican industry professionals and explore opportunities for touring, releasing, showcasing, and building partnerships. The discussion will also highlight the new cooperation between Riga Music Week and Musimex andBahidora Festival in Mexico, creating pathways for reciprocal showcasing and collaboration.

Alongside the panel, there will be dedicated networking sessions where participants can connect directly with Mexican delegates, plus a tailored market report answering key questions prepared by the EMEE research team.

How to Make Showcase Festivals Work for Artists and the Ecosystem

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Moderator: Egīls Šēfers – Latvian Music Information Centre, Latvia

Panelists:

Robert Meijerink – Eurosonic Noorderslag, Netherlands
Helen Sildna – Tallinn Music Week, Estonia
Franz Hergovich – Austrian Music Export, Austria
Bruno Roze – “I Love You”, Latvia
Michaël Spanu – Consultant and researcher (PhD), expert in cultural and creative strategies for places and organizations, France, Mexico

For more than a decade, Latvian musicians have been performing at international showcase festivals. Yet only a few have managed to turn these appearances into tangible success — such as invitations to major festivals, international partnerships, or sustainable careers abroad. So, what truly determines a successful showcase performance?

This panel explores the key factors behind showcase success and how artists can turn short appearances into lasting professional growth. It also examines the broader role of showcase festivals in strengthening both city and national music ecosystems — connecting professionals, fostering international collaboration, stimulating creative exchange, and positioning cities as vibrant cultural hubs.

Additionally, a showcase festival impact study evaluating the value of these events for music professionals will be presented during the session.

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WORKSHOP: Ableton presents: Bel Tempo deconstruct their live set with Push 3 and Ableton Live

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Moderator: Andis Ansons, Bel Tempo, Latvia

Bel Tempo will take the workshop stage at RIGA Music Week for an exclusive live set deconstruction, showcasing how Push 3 and Ableton Live bring their performance to life. The duo will break down their creative process — revealing how tracks move from the studio to the stage through hands-on arrangement, sound design, and performance workflows. Audiences will gain a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Bel Tempo transform their productions into a dynamic, expressive live show powered by the seamless integration of hardware and software.

From Dream to Stage: How to Get to International Music Festivals?

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Moderator: Ingrid Kohta – Tallinn Music Week, Estonia

Panelists:

Liza Nasta – Glastonbury Festival, United Kingdom
Fruzsina Szép – Superbloom, Lollapalooza Berlin, Germany
Mark Bóna – Sziget Festival, Hungary
Marlon Burton – ROAM Agency, United Kingdom
Ruud Berends – International Festival Forum (IFF), United Kingdom

For many musicians, performing at iconic festivals like Glastonbury, Sziget, Open’er, or Lollapalooza is a dream come true. But how can they get there? What are the pathways for bands from smaller markets, often without booking agents from Europe or the UK, to experience these moments and perform on such prestigious stages?

In this discussion, we’ll analyze the strategies that help artists reach international festivals and explore the next step: how to turn this experience into long-term growth in a specific country or region, with the aim of returning for solo concerts.

PANEL: Baltic, Nordic, or Eastern European? Defining a Region Through Music

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Moderator: TBC

Panelists:

Tom Sherlock – Ireland
Balázs Weyer – Hungary
Darek Mazzone – KEXP, United States

In the global music industry, regional labels and terms—such as “Nordic,” “Balkan,” or “Latin”—play a crucial role in how music is positioned, marketed, and understood. But where do Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia fit in this landscape? Are we seen as Baltic, Nordic, or Eastern European—and does it matter?

This panel will explore the cultural and strategic implications of regional identity in music. How important is it to clearly define or create such a term, and what value does it bring for the international branding of a country or region? Industry experts, artists, and cultural strategists will discuss the opportunities and challenges of naming, positioning, and presenting Baltic music on the global stage

Mental Health in the Music Industry: Challenges, Boundaries and Solutions

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Moderator: Debs Wild – Author of “Life in Technicolour: A Celebration of Coldplay”, United Kingdom

Panelists:

Ilze Dzenovska – Peace Lab, Latvia
Anete Zviedre – Yoga Teacher, Latvia

Mental health in the music industry is a crucial yet often overlooked issue. Intense work, pressure to succeed, and public attention increase the risk of stress and burnout. At the same time, the industry’s small size and close personal relationships can blur professional boundaries and complicate collaboration. How can we recognise when support is needed, and what solutions can help foster well-being and sustainable careers in music?

PANEL:THE FUTURE OF JAZZ: CONNECTING THE DOTS. Does Together Mean Stronger?

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Moderator: Aleksandra Line – Latvian Music Information Centre, Louder.lv

Panelists:

Frank van Berkel – Netherlands
Jan Ole Otnæs – Norway
Kostia Pace – Belgium

In the constantly evolving music landscape, collaboration is key — and nowhere is it more vital than in the jazz community. This panel explores how neighbouring countries can strengthen cooperation within the European region, why building networks across smaller markets matters, and how to find and nurture the right audiences for jazz.

The discussion will also focus on how Latvian jazz — and its artists, festivals, and initiatives — can increase visibility on the European stage, highlighting the power of collaboration, shared audiences, and cross-border growth within Europe’s jazz ecosystem.

Panel: Beyond Apps & Gadgets – Smart Specialisation in Music

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⁠Moderator: Guna Zučika – Every Little Thing, Riga Music Week

Speakers:

Scott Cohen – JKBX, UK/USA
Guillaume Warmerdam – LAB Music, MakeWaves.fm, Netherlands
Lauras Lučiūnas – Green Lake Vinyl Plant, Lithuania
Debs Wild – Author of “Life in Technicolour: A Celebration of Coldplay”, United Kingdom

Smart Specialisation (RIS3) in music isn’t limited to software, apps, or gadgets — it’s about how the music sector fuels innovation across rights management, live performance, manufacturing, tourism, education, and even urban design. This panel explores how music can become a driver of regional innovation, sustainability, and smart growth — and how Latvia and the Baltics can position themselves as creative innovation testbeds within Europe’s RIS3 framework.

We’ll explore areas such as: Rights & Finance – distribution platforms, automated royalty splits, catalog valuation, metadata innovation; Live & Places – smart venues, green touring, music-led tourism; Hardware & Manufacturing – instrument and vinyl R&D, sustainable materials, acoustics, and architecture; Cross-Sector Impact – music and wellbeing, EdTech, and sound innovation in urban spaces.

Eurovision: How to Turn Participation into a Success Story?

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Moderator: Ramūnas Zilnys – LRT, Lithuania

Speakers:

Marlon Burton – ROAM Agency, Baby Lasagna Booking Agent, United Kingdom
Linda Āboliņa – Manager, Sudden Lights, Latvia
Vaidotas Valiukevičius – The Roop, Lithuania
Alexa Niculae – Songwriter, Romania

The Eurovision Song Contest is one of the most-watched television shows in the world, offering artists a unique platform. Yet, even a high placement in the competition doesn’t always guarantee long-term success. This panel discussion will explore the key factors necessary to transform Eurovision exposure into a sustainable international career. Is it all about one song and a single performance on stage?

Our panelists—former Eurovision participants, music producers, and industry experts—will share their experiences and insights on how to effectively leverage this opportunity.

SPEED MEETINGS: Meet the supervisors and film producers

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Registration opens on October 27

Workshop: Setting Goals and Strategy for Your Career

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Moderator: Christoph Hallerberg – Backseat PR & Coaching

A successful career doesn’t happen by accident – it requires clear goals, a realistic strategy, and the discipline to follow through. But how do you define what you truly want to achieve, and translate that vision into concrete, actionable steps?

In this interactive workshop, participants will work through practical exercises designed to clarify career ambitions, set achievable milestones, and map out strategies that balance creativity, resources, and sustainability.

The workshop is part of the mentoring programme supported by the Latvian Performers’ and Producers’ Association (LaIPA) Culture and Education Fund.

Registration opens on October 27

PANEL: Beyond Babysitting: What Artist Managers Really Do (and What Not to Ask from a Manager)

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Moderator: Līva Pētersone-Kļaviņa – Riga Music Week, Music Latvia (Former Manager of Instrumenti), Latvia

Panelists:

Stephen Budd – Record Producer, United Kingdom
Istvan Tomaš – Music Manager, Lithuania
Toomas Oljum – Made in Baltics, Estonia
Guna Zučika – Every Little Thing, Riga Music Week (worked at BrainStorm (“Prāta Vētra”) Management, former manager of Carnival Youth and Tautumeitas; currently manages YŪT), Latvia
Rob van Dongen – Dikhoff Van Dongen Advocaten, Netherlands

In today’s music industry, the role of the artist manager goes far beyond traditional deal-making. Managers are strategists, marketers, therapists, and tour coordinators all at once. In the Baltic States, where markets are small and industry structures still developing, the manager’s role has long been much broader — often covering the work of a record label, promoter, and booking agent. It’s a lot to ask — and it hasn’t always been financially fair.

This panel explores the realities of the modern artist–manager relationship: balancing expectations when artists assume managers will “do it all,” maintaining loyalty and trust, and setting healthy boundaries to prevent burnout. We’ll also discuss different collaboration models — from traditional commissions to retainers and project-based fees — and how clear agreements can build fairness and sustainability.

In the Baltics, artist–manager contracts are still rare or often incomplete — so what does a proper agreement actually look like? What is the legal side of the artist–manager deal, and what can a manager fairly ask in return for their work and investment?

What does a fair, loyal, and balanced artist–manager partnership look like in 2025 — and how can small markets better support those who carry the heaviest load?

Moderator: Hannes Tschürtz – Ink Music

Panelists:

Agnese Cimuška–Rekke – Music Latvia, Latvia
Vaidas Stackevičius – Lithuanian Music Business Association, M.P.3 Agency, Lithuania
Becci Scotcher – PRS Foundation, United Kingdom
Suzette Das – First Music Contact, Irish Music Export, Ireland
Keren McKean – We Make Music Work, United Kingdom

Numbers with Meaning: Making Sense of Radio, Streaming & Merch Data

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Moderator: TBC

Speakers:

Edouard Witrand, Soundcharts, France
Martin Schuhmacher – Nettwerk Music Group, Germany
Marion Sosnowicz – Music Glue, UK

From radio airplay and streaming stats to merch and fan insights — data is everywhere. But how can artists, managers, and labels turn numbers into real creative and business impact? This session explores how to read, interpret, and use data to plan smarter releases, build stronger fan relationships, and make informed career decisions. The discussion will cover how to understand radio data and its link to audience growth, decode streaming analytics without falling into vanity metrics, use merch and direct-to-fan data to measure engagement, and turn insights into actionable strategies for marketing, touring, and storytelling.

SPEED MEETINGS: Meet the labels & publishers

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Registration opens on October 27

Workshop: TBC

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Registration opens on October 27

Presentation of the Music Consumption Study and Gold & Platinum Certification Awards

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SPEED MEETINGS: Meet the festivals and booking agents

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Registration opens on October 27

K.I.T. Keynote Speech & Q&A with Ola Melzig

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FREE REGISTRATION FOR THE KEYNOTE: Here
Moderator: TBC

Speaker: Ola Melzig

Ola Melzig is a renowned technical production manager and event director, celebrated for his sharp organizational skills, creative mindset, and trademark humor. Born in Malmö, Sweden, Ola began his career in production in the early 1990s and has since worked on some of the world’s biggest live events, including multiple Eurovision Song Contests, the Commonwealth Games Ceremonies, the European Games in Baku, and the American Song Contest (NBC).

A natural leader and communicator, Ola is known for building strong, motivated teams and delivering complex productions with precision and passion — making him one of the most respected voices in live event production today.

From Studio to Streaming: A DIY Music Release Guide

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Moderators:

Guillaume Warmerdam MakeWaves.fm,LAB Music, Vokall Records, The Netherlands
Britte Mainema, MakeWaves.fm, The Netherlands

In Latvia, most musicians release their recordings DIY, but real success requires a clear strategy and a solid understanding of the process. This masterclass walks step by step through the essentials: digital distribution (how to choose the right aggregator and what to expect), release preparation (what materials you need and how far in advance to have them ready), legal aspects (which contracts and agreements to sign and where to obtain necessary permissions), promotion and strategy (how to plan a campaign that actually reaches people), and revenue & royalties (how streaming payments flow and the differences between income for performers, record producers, and authors). The session will conclude with practical tips, real-world examples, and useful tools to help artists successfully manage the entire music release process from A to Z.

The workshop is part of the mentoring programme supported by the Latvian Performers’ and Producers’ Association (LaIPA) Culture and Education Fund.

Registration opens on October 27

SPEED MEETINGS: Meet the media

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Registration opens on October 27

PANEL: Music Cities – Building Sustainable Creative Hubs

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Moderator: TBC

Panelists:

Fabian Bassenhof – Hamburg Music, Germany
Laima Geikina – Riga City Council, Latvia
Lena Ingwersen – Music Cities Network, Germany
Kristiāns Potašovs – Kinetic, Latvia

What makes a city a true “music city”? Beyond venues and festivals, thriving music cities integrate policy, infrastructure, nightlife, talent support, and creative economies. Nightlife is not only entertainment but also a cultural driver, a testing ground for new sounds, and a significant contributor to local economies.

This panel explores how Riga and other cities can develop their music ecosystems, nurture vibrant nightlife, attract talent, and use music as a driver of cultural identity and economic growth.

K.I.T. PANEL:Discussion with Event Producers: The Relationship Between Money and Culture

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DISCUSSION IN LATVIAN

FREE REGISTRATION FOR THE PANEL: Here
Moderator: TBC

Panelists:

Aija Auškāpa – Prāta Vētras Skaņu Ierakstu Kompānija (BrainStorm Recording Company), Latvia
Ģirts Majors – Positivus Music and Positivus Festival, Latvia
Gints Putniņš – L.Tips, Latvia
Uldis Pabērzis – Summer Sound, Latvia
Edžus Arums – Author and Producer of “Dziesma Dejo. Deja Skan”, Latvia

A discussion with event producers about the relationship between money and culture — how and where public funds are spent, and how the private sector navigates between public and private financing to create high-quality cultural products that audiences value and are willing to pay for.

The panel will also explore the challenges that arise when municipally organized free events and private initiatives must coexist, and will look for possible solutions to build a more balanced and sustainable cultural environment in the future.

Q&A 17:20 – 17:30