5 Ways to Build a Pro Music Production Network

Published on 18 July 2023 6 min read

Attend Music Events and Conferences
Collaborate with Other Artists
Participate in Online Music Forums
Use Social Media to Connect with Industry Professionals
Volunteer at Music Festivals and Local Gigs

If you're passionate about making music and dream of turning this passion into a profession, the first step is building a professional support network in the music production industry. The music industry is not just about talent—it's about knowing the right people and making the right connections. So, let's dive into five effective ways to construct your own network in the industry and boost your music career.

Attend Music Events and Conferences

Music events and conferences are the perfect venues to meet industry professionals and fellow artists. Not only do you get to soak in the music vibes, but you also get to learn, interact and build relationships.

Choosing the Right Events

When it comes to selecting events, you might be tempted to go for the big, glamorous ones. But don't overlook the smaller, local events—they can often provide more opportunities for genuine connection. Here's how:

Local Music Events: These events usually have a relaxed atmosphere, making it easier for you to approach and engage with others. Plus, you're more likely to bump into the same people at future events, allowing relationships to grow over time.
Major Music Conferences: These can be a goldmine for networking, especially if you're aiming to connect with top-notch professionals. Just remember, it's not about meeting as many people as possible—it's about forging meaningful connections.

Networking at Events

Now that you've chosen the right events, let's talk about how you can network effectively:

Prepare Ahead: Do a bit of research about the event, the attendees, the speakers. Prepare some questions or conversation starters. This will make you feel more confident and focused.
Be Genuine: Don't just hand out your business cards or go on about your music. Show interest in other people's work. Ask questions. Share your passion for music. Genuine interest is the basis of any strong connection.
Follow Up: After the event, take the time to follow up with the people you've met. Send an email or a message saying how much you enjoyed meeting them. This simple step can help turn a casual encounter into a lasting connection.

Remember, building a professional support network in the music production industry is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time, be genuine, and you'll see your network grow.

Collaborate with Other Artists

Another effective way to build a professional support network in the music production industry is by collaborating with other artists. It's a win-win situation—you get to expand your creative horizon while simultaneously growing your network.

Finding Artists for Collaboration

Locating the right artists to collaborate with can feel like finding a needle in a haystack. However, the process becomes a whole lot simpler when you know where to look:

Local Jam Sessions: These are an excellent platform to meet like-minded musicians. You could find someone whose style complements yours, leading to a fruitful collaboration.
Music Schools: Many music schools host performances and workshops where you can meet other aspiring musicians. You never know, your future collaborator might be practicing in the next room!

How to Approach a Collaboration

Collaboration is not just about making music together; it's about working in harmony towards a shared goal. Here's how you can make your collaboration a success:

Communicate Openly: Clearly define your expectations from the collaboration. Be open to suggestions and feedback from your collaborator. Remember, communication is key.
Respect Each Other's Work: Every artist has a unique style—appreciate it, respect it. This mutual respect will foster a creative environment and strengthen your professional relationship.
Promote Each Other: Share your collaborator's work on your social media platforms. This not only helps in promoting the collaboration but also in expanding both your networks.

Through collaboration, you can create a ripple effect—each artist you work with introduces you to their network, and before you know it, you're part of a vibrant, interconnected community in the music production industry.

Participate in Online Music Forums

Joining and being active in online music forums is another great way to build a professional support network in the music production industry. It's like having a global community at your fingertips—one where you can share ideas, ask questions, learn, and connect with people who share your passion.

Finding the Right Forums

There are many online music forums out there, but it's important to find ones that align with your interests and aspirations:

Genre-Specific Forums: If you're into a specific genre, consider joining forums dedicated to that style of music. You'll find like-minded artists who can provide genre-specific advice and opportunities for collaboration.
Production-Focused Forums: These forums are packed with professionals and enthusiasts who can give you tips on everything from mixing to mastering. Examples include "Gearslutz" and "Sound on Sound."

Engaging with the Community

Simply joining a forum isn't enough. Here's how you can effectively engage with the community to build your network:

Ask Questions: Don't shy away from asking questions, no matter how basic they might seem. This not only helps you learn but also shows your willingness to engage with the community.
Share Your Knowledge: If you have expertise in certain areas, don't hesitate to share it. This can establish you as a valuable member of the community and open up opportunities for professional connections.
Connect Beyond the Forum: If you find someone whose work you admire or share a common interest with, consider reaching out to them privately. This can lead to meaningful connections and potential collaborations.

Participating in online forums provides an opportunity to connect with a global network of artists and professionals. It's a step closer to building a robust professional support network in the music production industry.

Social media has become a key player in building a professional support network in the music production industry. It offers a platform to showcase your work, engage with your peers, and connect with industry professionals who can guide you on your journey.

Choosing the Right Platforms

Not all social media platforms serve the same purpose. Here’s a glimpse into how you can leverage different platforms:

Instagram: This visual platform is great for showcasing your work, be it photos of your recording sessions or clips from your latest tracks. You can also use Instagram Stories to give followers a behind-the-scenes look at your process.
Twitter: Twitter is ideal for quick, regular updates and connecting directly with professionals. Use it to share news, thoughts on the industry, and engage in trending topics.
LinkedIn: This professional network is a powerful tool for connecting with industry professionals and companies. You can also share articles, your achievements, and participate in relevant group discussions.

Building Your Online Presence

Having a profile isn't enough. Here are some tips to help you build an impactful online presence:

Be Consistent: Try to post regularly. This keeps your profile active and increases your visibility.
Engage: Don’t just post—engage. Respond to comments, participate in discussions, and show appreciation for others' work. This builds relationships and expands your network.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your posts. People connect with authenticity, and it can set you apart from the crowd.

By using social media strategically, you're on your way to building a professional support network in the music production industry. Remember, it’s not just about the number of connections, but the quality of relationships you build.

Volunteer at Music Festivals and Local Gigs

Another practical approach to building a professional support network in the music production industry is by volunteering at music festivals and local gigs. It's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the industry while building relationships.

Why Volunteering Works

Volunteering can be a stepping stone to getting your foot in the music production door. Here's why:

Hands-on Experience: Volunteering allows you to experience the inner workings of a music event. You may pick up practical skills and knowledge that can be valuable in your music production career.
Networking Opportunity: You get the chance to meet like-minded individuals, industry professionals, and possibly, your future collaborators. Remember, networking is the key to success in this industry.

How to Get Involved

Ready to roll up your sleeves and start volunteering? Here's how:

Research: Find out about upcoming local gigs, music festivals, or concerts. Check their websites or social media pages for volunteer opportunities.
Apply: Once you've found an event that interests you, apply to be a volunteer. Be sure to mention any relevant skills or experiences.
Make the Most of It: Show up, work hard, and be friendly. This is your chance to make a good impression and build connections.

While volunteering might not directly relate to music production, the relationships and experiences you gain could prove invaluable. After all, building a professional support network in the music production industry often involves stepping out of your comfort zone and exploring all avenues of opportunity.

If you're eager to expand your music production network, don't miss the workshop 'Industry Insights: Starting Your Music Career' by Aria Jay. This workshop offers valuable tips and insights on building a strong network within the music industry, helping you kickstart your music career with confidence.