The panel explored the realities of being a musician in the modern age and navigating an increasingly complex industry. Photo: ©The MU.
The MaMA festival, which stands for ‘Marché des Musiques Actuelles’ (Market of Current Music), took place in Paris from 15–17 October.
The event combines an industry convention with a public music festival, held annually in the Pigalle and Montmartre neighbourhoods. By day, it features a conference with panels and workshops for music professionals, and by night, it showcases over 100 emerging and international artists across various venues.
MU panel
The Musicians’ Union joined forces with one of our northern-based partners, Un-Convention, to present a panel on the second day of MaMA titled ‘Sustainable Careers for Artists in a Changing Industry’.
Moderated by BBC presenter, bassoonist and chair of the MU’s Members’ Assembly Linton Stephens, the panel featured Louis Barabbas (songwriter primarily composing for musical theatre) Fiona Bevan (singer / songwriter), Field Music’s David Brewis, and Kelly Wood, National Organiser for Live, Theatres and Music Writers at the MU.
Together, they explored the realities of being a musician in the modern age and navigating an increasingly complex industry.
Redefining the role of the musician
The panel opened with reflections on how the role of a musician has evolved. David Brewis described the importance of “holding onto the idea of creating something while juggling the complications necessary to make it happen,” while Fiona Bevan noted that many artists now manage everything from promotion to visuals and social media.
Kelly Wood emphasized the importance of empowerment, especially for unrepresented musicians and the vital role of the MU in helping artists understand their worth and advocate for themselves.
Diversification and portfolio careers
A recurring theme was the necessity of diversifying income streams. From sync licensing and commissioned work to producing and teaching, artists are embracing portfolio careers to stay afloat. Louis Barabbas highlighted the collaborative nature of musical theatre and the benefits of writing to a clear brief but noted that it is also fraught with challenges, especially around funding.
Fiona Bevan shared her experience writing for others, noting that it requires empathy and can be creatively liberating, also acknowledging the growing difficulty of sustaining a music career due to streaming economics, AI disruption, and venue closures.
Financial realities and mental health
The panel didn’t shy away from the financial pressures facing musicians, with the recent Musicians’ Census revealing that most musicians make an average of around £20,000 annually.
Kelly advocated for transparency around money and rights, urging musicians to understand different revenue streams, royalties and how to protect rights. David added that artists have a responsibility to pass on their cultural capital and educate others about exploitative practices.
Social media and authenticity
Social media emerged as both a tool and a challenge. Louis described it as another art form essentially rooted in storytelling, while Fiona stressed the importance of authenticity, especially for new parents navigating industry expectations.
David acknowledged the necessity of social media but warned that it is a constantly moving target.
Inclusion, access, and the future
The conversation also touched on inclusion and access, with Fiona and Kelly highlighting the need for better childcare support, especially at venues and that this should be looked at in a similar way to access riders.
In closing, the panellists offered hopeful perspectives on future-proofing music careers. Louis championed community as “AI proof,” Kelly called for honesty and education across the industry, Fiona emphasised music’s power to connect and respond to what is happening in the world and David reminded artists to hold onto what they enjoy as there is a lot to cope with and manage which surrounds this.
The panel served as a powerful and timely reminder that while the industry may be evolving, the core of creating music, connection and creativity remain constant.