Music trade shows provide companies the opportunity to branch out and expand. These shows allow businesses to display and shop for the latest versions of equipment and instruments. They also provide recording labels with a look at unsigned talent all at one time. Music trade shows vary by music industry so there is a more focused vendor and visitor list.

When selecting a music trade show to exhibit at or attend, look for trade shows your company can benefit from. There are three different types of music tradeshow. Recording labels and unsigned talent benefit the most from a trade show that caters specifically to them. Companies looking for musical instrument dealers and manufactures should choose a show that will reap the most information. A recording studio or company that makes recording equipment needs to attend music trade shows designed specifically for them.

1. Visit a music trade show to find new talent.

2. Locate a musical instrument music trade show.

3. Attend an audio recording music trade show.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Recruit new talent at a music trade show

Many recording companies large and small visit music trade shows to receive demo tapes and meet new talent. This is a great way to find talent to fill your recording studio.

I recommend: SXSW Music Trade Show and Exhibition is a music trade show, which has exhibits for recording equipment and talent. SMES Music Summit is a music trade show that is geared toward Hip-Hop music, with equipment and various industry professionals. Read music trade show information and visit to see a wide variety of unsigned talent at Pacific Media Expo.

Locate music trade shows that specialize in musical instruments

These types of music tradeshows are designed to cater to music stores. The vendors at these music trade shows are manufactures of the instruments. Many companies attend these shows to network and find new stores to sell to.

I recommend: Metro Music Expo is a music trade show used to present instruments and other band equipment to a variety of buyers. Find music trade show advice and exhibit at a leading music trade show at a NAMM Trade Show.

Visit an audio recording equipment music trade show

A recording equipment music trade show supplies all the equipment a business needs to start or update a recording studio. Vendors at these music trade shows provide the latest in audio recording equipment and software.

I recommend: Search through the vast music trade show directory to locate shows and exhibitors from past shows at Enjoythemusic.com. View the music trade show services for both vendors and attendees at the Festival Son & Image.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Plan to arrive at least one day early to set up your booth when your business decides to attend a music tradeshow as a vendor. If you have any questions about what to expect at a certain show, ask the event organizers for a music trade show guide.