ArtsQuest has announced the second annual Music Industry Conference, scheduled for August 2–4, 2026, at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. This event will coincide with Musikfest, the largest free music festival in the United States, and aims to connect music educators, emerging artists, industry leaders, and students through an immersive experience that integrates education and the music industry.
Building on the success of its inaugural event in 2024, the 2026 conference will feature expanded interactive programs, a broader range of presenters, and increased opportunities for attendees to learn, perform, and network. The conference will include hands-on workshops, live coaching sessions, mentorship roundtables, and technology labs focused on real-world music industry applications.
The conference will cover various strands, including:
- Production and Live Event Operations: Topics will include sound, lighting, staging, event safety, and advancements in production technology.
- Performance and Artist Development: Sessions will focus on coaching, booking gigs, networking, branding, and collaboration across genres.
- Music Business and Entrepreneurship: This strand will address talent buying, contracts, marketing, financial literacy, and startup models.
- Innovation and Future Trends: Discussions will include AI, Web3, audience engagement, and modern music education.
New features for the 2026 conference include a Band Showcase Program for youth and emerging bands, providing coaching and performance opportunities on a Musikfest stage, and a Green Room Mentorship Lounge for one-on-one mentorship with industry veterans. Additionally, a pop-up exhibit in collaboration with the Museum of Music Technology will highlight the history of sonic innovation.
Applications for the Band Showcase will open soon, with a deadline of February 15, 2026. Conference registration will commence in spring 2026, offering pricing tiers for educators, students, professionals, and family members, along with honoraria for presenters.
For more information and to apply for conference programs, interested parties can visit Musikfest.org or contact ArtsQuest representatives. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.