Overview: T-Minus has contributed to releases for top artists in hip hop and R&B, including Drake, Nicki Minaj, The Weeknd, Lil Wayne, Logic, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, Camila Cabello, Travis Scott, Justin Bieber, Belly, A$AP Rocky, Big Sean, DMX, DJ Khaled, 2 Chainz, Lana Del Rey, Sia, J. Cole, and Nelly Furtado, among others. He has been recognized with credits on eight Grammy Award-nominated singles or albums, including an Album of the Year nomination for his work on Lamar's Good Kid, M.A.A.D City (2012). In 2012, he also earned the Top Producer award at BMI's R&B/Hip Hop Awards.

Overview: The IMSTA FESTA Career Forum will be held from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. This forum provides attendees the chance to engage one-on-one with music industry experts, explore a wide range of music-related career paths, and gain insights into the journeys and successes of seasoned professionals. It’s also a fantastic networking opportunity, allowing participants to make meaningful connections within the music industry.

Presenter: An industry veteran, Jim Norris is the President of Entertainment Marketer and the Publisher of Canadian Music Spotlight taught General Marketing and Entertainment Marketing at Metalworks Institute, taught Entertainment Business courses at Mohawk College and has been a featured speaker at trade shows and conferences in Canada and the United States and online. He is a member of the American Marketing Association. a marketing consultant and a career coach.

Kevin Young is a keyboard player and writer who’s been working in the gig economy long before anyone called it that. Over 30+ years in the music business - as a keyboard player, recording artist, and inveterate contrarian - Kevin has written, recorded, and toured with Canadian Alt. Rock acts Moist and David Usher, among others. He’s also a freelance writer specializing in artist bios, personal/corporate profiles, and live and recording production technology features for a wide range of publications, equipment manufacturers, and music-related companies.

For the past 25+ years, Eric Alper has been at the forefront of the Canadian entertainment industry – making the Public in Public Relations his business. His enthusiasm, encyclopedic knowledge of the past and present have made him the go-to for music in Canada. He is also host of one of the top-rated SiriusXM shows “ThatEricAlper”. With over one million followers, friends and connections across his social media platforms, it’s clear to understand why he has been named a “must follow” by Billboard, Paste and National Post among others. He has been a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 155 JUNO Award nominated-albums (and 14 in 2023), including 43 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, and 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums, and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Melissa Johnston is a music business professional with over thirteen years of experience in music publishing, specializing in mechanical licensing and royalty processing. She joined the team at Metalworks Institute in 2019 as an instructor and has since taken on the role of Student Success Manager. After graduating from Durham College’s Entertainment Administration program in 2006, she began her career at CMRRA helping the industry make the transition from physical media to the age of streaming. At the CMRRA, Melissa was able to hone her skills in client management while growing and managing a team of people responsible for the accurate licensing and processing of royalties. Melissa quickly rose through the ranks at the CMRRA and dealt directly with the largest music publishers, major and independent record labels, while interacting with senior management and helping develop a new licensing platform. Melissa combines her passion for music with a deep understanding of the business side of the industry and the nuances of not only being successful in the industry, but how to navigate the many facets of the industry to thrive.

Lorraine Lawson is the most sought after vocal and performance coach in Canada, coaching Juno and Grammy Nominated and Winning artists, the actors on Schitts Creek, dancers from So You Think You Can Dance and World of Dance and has helped countless people do what they love at higher level. As the founder and CEO of Lawson Vocal Studios, Lorraine and her team of coaches, offer private and group programs designed to help people discover a voice they love. Lorraine is the author of 3 books including Power of Performance available on Amazon and her most recent e-book ‘Speak Like A Star’.

Nadia Adam Formerly one of IMSTA’s Executive Directors, Nadia Adam, continues to progress in the music industry. Starting in 2012 as an executive assistant, Nadia utilized her unique ability to initiate and grow professional relationships within the industry. Nadia is currently the global Marketing Coordinator for IK Multimedia. Her credentials include a diploma from Mohawk College, an honors degree from York University, continuing education at University of Toronto and volunteering in the community. Nadia’s fierce ambition is fostered by mentorship from leading giants in the industry.

Overview: Join this exciting master class and learn how to use AI to sing your songs and even rap on your beats, taking songwriting to a whole new level. If you're a songwriter or music producer who can't sing but wants to hear your music with vocals, this class is for you. Producer, vocal producer, and audio engineer Joshua Weinfield will show you how to create amazing-sounding vocals for your demos or final productions. Josh will cover the key features of the Synthesizer V AI Vocal Synth and demonstrate how to use and tweak them to create professional-quality vocals.

Presenter: Joshua Weinfeld, co-founder of Continuous Motion Productions, LLC, holds a master’s degree in Music Technology and Digital Media from the University of Toronto and graduated from Vanderbilt University with a focus on percussion performance. A New York City native, Joshua has received accolades including the Downbeat Magazine award for best collegiate-engineered live recording and 1st place in the Audio Engineering Society Recording Competition in 2023. At Continuous Motion, he has collaborated with artists worldwide and contributed to hundreds of audiovisual projects.

Overview: Legendary synth master Michael Lehmann Boddicker is making his way from LA to IMSTA FESTA Toronto to take you behind the scenes of working on the hits on some of the most iconic records in music history. Michael is an American film composer and session musician specializing in electronic music. He has been recognized as a three-time National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (N.A.R.A.S.) Most Valuable Player in the 'Synthesizer' category and holds the MVP Emeritus title. In 1984, he won a Grammy as a songwriter for Imagination from Flashdance. Boddicker currently serves as president of The Lehmann Boddicker Group and has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Lionel Ritchie, Chicago, Quincy Jones, and more.

Presenter: Michael Lehmann Boddicker is an American film composer and session musician specializing in electronic music. He has been recognized as a three-time National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (N.A.R.A.S.) Most Valuable Player in the 'Synthesizer' category and holds the MVP Emeritus title. In 1984, he won a Grammy as a songwriter for Imagination from Flashdance. Boddicker currently serves as president of The Lehmann Boddicker Group and has collaborated with some of the biggest names in music, including Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Lionel Ritchie, Chicago, Quincy Jones, and more.

Overview: Are you passionate about music studio design? Join us for an exclusive master class on Home Studio Acoustics Design led by the renowned studio designer and acoustician, Martin Pilchner!

Presenter: Martin Pilchner is president of Pilchner Schoustal International Inc. a design firm specializing in the realization of high-performance music, film and broadcast facilities, performance spaces, and critical listening environments. With over forty years of experience in acoustics, audio engineering and architecture, and well over 2,700 facilities to their credit, PSII have garnered a world-wide reputation for innovative design and for delivering critical results. Martin Pilchner has also served as the associate director of the Harris Institute audio production program for over 35 years where he teaches classes on computer science, acoustics, and studio design.

Pilchner Schoustal International Inc. (PSII) is based in Toronto Canada and services a wide variety of clients worldwide, from major commercial leaders to private industry elites. Recent projects include music and post production studios in Toronto, New York, Stamford, Portland, Los Angeles, Miami, Hawaii, Mumbai, Tahiti, Tokyo, Jakarta, and Cape Town South Africa.

Overview: Are you interested in learning how to protect your music and thrive in the modern industry? Join Paul Sanderson—one of Canada’s top entertainment and intellectual property lawyers—for an exclusive master class at IMSTA FESTA. In this master class, Paul will break down essential legal strategies for musicians and industry professionals, guiding you through the complexities of music law in the digital era. If you’re an artist, manager, or label executive looking to understand how to secure your creative work and build a sustainable career, this session is for you. Don’t miss this chance to gain critical insights from one of Canada’s most respected voices in music law!

Presenter: With over 30 years of experience, Paul has become a trusted legal advisor to many of Canada’s leading artists, producers, and entertainment companies. As the founder of Sanderson Law, he has been instrumental in developing legal frameworks that safeguard creators in Canada’s evolving music landscape, particularly in areas like copyright protection, contract negotiations, licensing, and royalties.

Overview: If you’re interested in having your song reviewed by a professional, between 2 pm and 5 pm bring your song on your phone or a device with headphone compatibility for a private evaluation. Our experienced songwriters and producers will provide personalized feedback in a one-on-one session. If your song stands out, you may even earn a wildcard entry into the Songwriting Competition. You can also choose to submit your song directly using the link below for entry into the 2024 IMSTA Song Competition, where you’ll have the chance to win $5,000 worth of premium music software tools. The final winners will be announced during the IMSTA Songwriting Competition Finals at IMSTA FESTA Toronto, judged by esteemed professionals Clint Ward, Ted Sevdalis, Eddie Bullen, Rob Wells, Rosanne Baker Thornley, and Ared Arzumanian.

Overview: These sessions will unveil how this industry-leading software Melodyne is a staple in major studios globally, trusted by countless professionals. From fine-tuning vocals to molding samples, Melodyne offers a world of possibilities to polish and transform your recordings. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your music production skills and witness the magic of Melodyne firsthand!

Presenter: Rich Crescenti is a freelance engineer, producer, and drummer working out of several studios in NYC and LA. Rich has played music for over 30 years, and has been making recordings for over 20 years. Whether behind the glass or behind the kit, Rich helps bands make unique music and recordings. Contact him at Rich Makes Records.

Overview: Are you passionate about mixing pop music? Join us for an exclusive master class with the acclaimed mixing engineer, Jay Dufour, as he reveals the secrets behind mixing a number one record! Learn fresh and new techniques used today to make hit records pop. This session cannot be missed.

Presenter: Growing up in Windsor, Ontario, Jay has always been a massive music fan at heart. With the sounds of Motown and American radio pouring in from across the river in Detroit, this modern and vintage sound became embedded in his DNA. Like many engineers and producers, Jay was introduced to music production while recording in a few local studios as a teenager. He quickly realized that he wanted to spend his life making records.

A graduate from the audio engineering program at OIART college in London, Jay then moved to Toronto where he would start his climb through the industry. He gained experience working as an assistant engineer at the legendary Phase One Studios and was later hired as staff engineer at the newly established Revolution Recording.

Jay has since gone independent and is quickly joining ranks with the industry’s elite mixers. To date, Jay has mixed 16 Billboard #1's, received 8 Juno Award wins (including 31 Juno Award nominations), received 10 CCMA Award wins (including 40 CCMA Award Nominations), and has worked on 32 gold and platinum selling records.

Known for his relentless work ethic, remarkable creativity, and radio-ready mixes, Jay has dedicated his life to the art of engineering and mixing records.

Overview: Join GRAMMY Award Winning songwriter Liz Rodrigues and SOCAN creative executive Houtan Hodania for an engaging master class on the art of songwriting. Liz will discuss what inspires her, how to craft memorable melodies, song structure, lyric writing, co-writing, and much more.

Presenter: Liz Rodrigues is a Grammy award-winning songwriter whose songs have been recorded by artists including Celine Dion, Pitbull, P!nk, Nicole Sherzinger among others.

Her frequent collaborations with Eminem include “Survival” from the Grammy Award winning album Marshall Mathers LP2, 3 songs including “Won’t Back Down” ft. P!nk from his #1 Grammy Award winning album Recovery and “Kings Never Die” ft. Gwen Stefani for the film Southpaw. Recently, Liz has co-written multiple tracks for Naomi Sharon (who was personally signed by Drake to OVO Sound) including “Definition Of Love” and “Lucid Dreamer” from her debut album Obsidian and recent single “Nothing Sweeter” which was featured in a campaign for David Yurman Jewelry starring Michael B. Jordan.

Overview: Join Wilkis "Ideology" Figuereo, CEO and Founder of Itec Audio Studios, for an immersive masterclass on leveraging Sonible AI plugins to streamline your mixing workflow. With over 25 years of expertise, Ideology will walk you through essential techniques for achieving a professional, polished mix swiftly and effectively. This class covers practical strategies for using Sonible’s advanced AI-driven tools to balance levels, enhance clarity, and ensure deliverable standards are met with ease. Ideal for audio professionals and students alike, this session will empower you to elevate your mixing process and achieve optimal results in record time.

Overview: Join us for the Writing for Screen master class, where expert composers Orin Isaacs and Neil Parfitt will discuss the unique challenges of composing for screen projects. They'll break down the fast-paced demands, such as handling tight deadlines, juggling multiple cues, and managing production. You'll also get a behind-the-scenes look at the tools they rely on and how their studio setups help keep everything on track. Neil and Orin will present real examples of client requests and how the final score came together, complete with before-and-after clips. Stick around for a relaxed Q&A, where you can ask any questions, you have.

Presenter: Orin Isaacs is a 30-year veteran to the Canadian entertainment scene. He has produced Juno Award winning, Gold & Platinum selling albums, and over the last 20 years has been an in-demand TV Composer. This year Orin is the music composer behind Big Brother Canada, Canada’s Ultimate Challenge, Battle of the Generations and Bam Bam: The Sister Nancy Story. He has contributed music to: The Great Canadian Pottery Throw Down, Top Chef Canada, I Have Nothing, Cash Cab Music, Slaycation and The Amazing Race Canada. When it comes to Musically Directing Canadas biggest shows, producers trust Orin to get it done! In 2024 Orin was the Musical Director for Canada’s Got Talent, The Juno Awards, The Canadian Country Music Awards, The Legacy Awards, Stars On Ice, Alex Cooper’s (Call Her Daddy Unwell Tour) and The Canadian Broadcast of the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer/Para Games.

Presenter: Neil Parfitt is an award-winning composer specializing in animation. His diverse portfolio spans Japanese anime, youth action and fantasy, preschool, teen dramedy, and adult comedy. In addition to his compositional work, Neil has collaborated with prominent Canadian composers as a synthesizer sound designer, programmer, music editor, and score mixer on countless feature films and television series. He can also be found Teaching Synthesis, MIDI and Pro Tools courses at Centennial College.

Overview: This masterclass on grant writing for Canadian music professionals is designed to empower musicians, managers, and industry creatives with practical skills to access essential funding. Attendees will explore the ins and outs of writing successful grant applications to help fund a range of music projects—from recording and marketing albums to national and international tours. The course will cover how to craft a strong narrative, build a clear, realistic budget, and meet eligibility requirements that resonate with funding bodies in Canada. With expert tips and real-world examples, participants will learn strategies for standing out in a competitive field and securing the support they need to move their projects forward. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand, this masterclass will provide a hands-on, informed approach to gaining grants that drive growth and visibility in Canada’s vibrant music scene.

Presenter: Professor Michael Coghlan of York University is an accomplished composer, performer, conductor, record producer, and music director with extensive experience across diverse musical genres, including medieval, classical, jazz, popular, world music, and computer-based music. A recognized specialist in digital music production, he is known for his innovative use of contemporary music technologies in both artistic and educational contexts. With years of experience in grant writing, he has successfully secured funding for numerous projects and initiatives. Professor Coghlan has designed and led digital music conferences and workshops for professionals, and regularly consults within the music industry, sharing his expertise in both creative and practical aspects of music production.

Presenter: Chayne Japal has been a Project Coordinator at FACTOR for four years assisting artists and music companies through the funding process. Previously, he was at Blue Ant Media as music director on channels AUX and A.Side. He also served as staff writer and producer handling video content, artist relations, festival and brand partnerships, and contesting. His writing has been published on Range, Exclaim!, BeatRoute, Complex, and The Fader.

Overview: These sessions will unveil how this industry-leading software Melodyne is a staple in major studios globally, trusted by countless professionals. From fine-tuning vocals to molding samples, Melodyne offers a world of possibilities to polish and transform your recordings. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your music production skills and witness the magic of Melodyne firsthand!

Presenter: Rich Crescenti is a freelance engineer, producer, and drummer working out of several studios in NYC and LA. Rich has played music for over 30 years, and has been making recordings for over 20 years. Whether behind the glass or behind the kit, Rich helps bands make unique music and recordings. Contact him at Rich Makes Records.

Overview: Powered by the Battle of the Beatmakers, the IMSTA FESTA Beat Battle is an electrifying music competition where 8 Producers engage in an intense tournament-style showdown across three rounds. In the first round, featuring all 8 talented producers, the stakes are high as they go head-to-head, each delivering their best beats in a Best of 3 format. As the battle progresses, the field narrows down to the Final 4 Producers in the second round, where only the very best beat will secure victory in a single face-off. The climax of the event unfolds in the third and final round, where the last two producers stand toe-to-toe, putting their finest beat forward for the ultimate showdown.

Judges: The IMSTA FESTA Beat Battle will be hosted by one of the original Beat Battle hosts, Sean "Bluu" Watson and judged by Mellenius (Tone Mason), who is a GRAMMY-Nominated Producer (Drake, Jay-Z, Tory Lanez, Rick Ross, 50 Cent, Ice Cube); and Y-Not (SoundSmith) - Super Producer (J Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Nipsey Hussle, Jeezy, The LOX, Rakim). The DJ of the day will be NORTH ENGLISH.

Overview: Immersive sound has become a game-changing phenomenon in the music industry. Technologies like Dolby Atmos, Apple Spatial Audio, and Sony 360 Reality Audio are just a few of the most prominent innovations driving this transformation, allowing artists and engineers to push creative boundaries. In this engaging master class, veteran mixing engineer Jeff Wolpert will take you through the fundamentals of Immersive Audio, addressing frequently asked questions such as what it is, why it matters, and how it works. Jeff will cover routing, mixing, and monitoring for Dolby Atmos, along with a demonstration of the Dolby Atmos Renderer.

Presenter: A multi-award-winning engineer, mixer, producer, editor, and educator Wolpert has worked with some of the biggest names in today's entertainment industry. He is the owner and chief engineer of Desert Fish Studios located in downtown Toronto a Dolby Certified ATMOS Music facility and, has won 3 JUNO Awards for Recording Engineer of the Year. He is the Director of and Adjunct Professor in the Master of Music in Music Technology and Digital Media graduate program at the University of Toronto. Known for his mastery of recording and intricate mixing, Wolpert is also recognized for his vast musical, technical and computer knowledge.

Overview: Explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the music industry in this engaging panel discussion, AI & The Future of Music. Industry experts and innovators will discuss how AI is reshaping music creation, production, and distribution, opening new opportunities while raising important questions about creativity, ethics, and authenticity. From AI-driven songwriting and mastering tools to personalized music experiences and copyright challenges, this session will address the promise and complexities of integrating AI into music. Whether you're a creator, producer, or music enthusiast, join us for an insightful look at how AI is influencing the future of music.

Presenter: Joshua Weinfeld, co-founder of Continuous Motion Productions, LLC, holds a master’s degree in Music Technology and Digital Media from the University of Toronto and graduated from Vanderbilt University with a focus on percussion performance. A New York City native, Joshua has received accolades including the Downbeat Magazine award for best collegiate-engineered live recording and 1st place in the Audio Engineering Society Recording Competition in 2023. At Continuous Motion, he has collaborated with artists worldwide and contributed to hundreds of audiovisual projects.

Wilkis Figuereo is a CEO, Entrepreneur, Producer and Engineer with over 20 years experience. He is the owner of Itec Audio Studios in New Jersey, one of the premier Avid Authorized training centers in the North East United States. Wilkis also serves as an Educational Consultant for Music Production programs across the nation and a partner of NYU’s Hip Hop Education Center.

Bulent Biyikoglu has been writing software since the days of the Spectrum 48k. He concentrated on audio DSP while studying Electrical and Electronics Engineering at METU. With the success of SynthMaster, Bülent officially founded KV331 Audio in 2012. They recently released Synthmaster 3, their flagship all-around modular software synthesizer available in VST2, VST3, AudioUnits and AAX formats.

Professor Michael Coghlan of York University is an accomplished composer, performer, conductor, record producer, and music director with extensive experience across diverse musical genres, including medieval, classical, jazz, popular, world music, and computer-based music. A recognized specialist in digital music production, he is known for his innovative use of contemporary music technologies in both artistic and educational contexts. With years of experience in grant writing, he has successfully secured funding for numerous projects and initiatives. Professor Coghlan has designed and led digital music conferences and workshops for professionals, and regularly consults within the music industry, sharing his expertise in both creative and practical aspects of music production.

Overview: As an independent musician, it's crucial to understand the landscape of music publishing in Canada. Join Melissa Johnston for a crash course on music publishing, covering the role of a music publisher, including copyright, registration, royalty collection, A&R, synchronization, and more. Melissa will explain how music publishers work with songwriters and composers, offering business support, infrastructure, and creative guidance. You'll learn how publishers promote songwriters and their work through co-writing sessions, song-plugging, licensing for media, and more. Melissa will also discuss the role of collection societies/PROs and the importance of a global network for song registration and royalty distribution.

Presenter: Melissa Johnston is a music business professional with over thirteen years of experience in music publishing, specializing in mechanical licensing and royalty processing. She joined the team at Metalworks Institute in 2019 as an instructor and has since taken on the role of Student Success Manager. After graduating from Durham College’s Entertainment Administration program in 2006, she began her career at CMRRA helping the industry make the transition from physical media to the age of streaming. At the CMRRA, Melissa was able to hone her skills in client management while growing and managing a team of people responsible for the accurate licensing and processing of royalties. Melissa quickly rose through the ranks at the CMRRA and dealt directly with the largest music publishers, major and independent record labels, while interacting with senior management and helping develop a new licensing platform. Melissa combines her passion for music with a deep understanding of the business side of the industry and the nuances of not only being successful in the industry, but how to navigate the many facets of the industry to thrive.

Overview: Writing a great song is a primary creative goal of most artists and songwriters from around the world. Getting the beat perfect is only one step. Getting the lyrics and melody just right is another step. Then – does it have a memorable hook? Does the style and production match the story? Is it engaging to listen from beginning to end?

IMSTA is pleased with the amount of songwriters that submit songs and/or come to the show to get a song reviewed. There has been a common theme when reviewing these songs. While so many have some of the ingredients, more often than not there are crucial missing pieces and/or underdeveloped ideas. A weak song, that could have been stronger. A good song that could have been great.

In this panel – we will take a selection of songs – have our expert panel listen to them and discuss what elements might be missing or what could have been done differently to improve the song. Knowing what’s wrong with the song is a first step in making it a better song. This is a must panel for anyone who writes songs or produces tracks.

Panelists: Ared Arzumanian is an award-winning Juno-nominated producer, composer, songwriter, remixer, and recording artist with a rich career spanning over 25 years. Formerly signed to BMG and Universal Music Group, Ared's music has been featured on major label releases and compilations worldwide. He co-wrote and co-produced the chart-topping single “Open Up Your Heart” for Mia Minx, along with multiple charting hits, and has collaborated on projects with artists including Force of Nature feat. Ali Tennant from The Voice UK (BMG Chrysalis), Kristinia DeBarge (Island Def Jam), Craig Smart (Ultra), and Témi (formerly of Ludacris’ band Untitled). Ared has also had the opportunity to work on remixes for notable artists including TLC, Gloria Gaynor, Amerie, Lyric (feat. Loon), Jerzee Monet (feat. DMX), Choclair (feat. Kurupt), Shawn Desman, and many more.

Ared recently studied at the prestigious Los Angeles Academy for Artists & Music Production (LAAMP), founded by the renowned Stargate production team. His work has been licensed for film, including the soundtrack for "More to Love", which won Best Romantic Comedy at the 1999 New York International Independent Film & Video Festival. A passionate mentor, Ared actively supports aspiring talent and has served as a judge and panelist for dozens of prominent music industry platforms, conferences, and festivals.

Marcus Kane is a writer, producer, and remixer… Platinum Producer Marcus Kane has Sold Over 4 Million Albums and 30 Million Video Games WORLDWIDE!!! Kane’s produced (and/or co-produced) #1 hits on both sides of the Pacific, and has worked with some of today’s most Pre-Eminent Talent. This award-winning producer has been mentioned in Billboard, The Toronto Star, Canadian Musician, The Source, Respect, Tribute Magazine, etc. Over 100 records that Kane’s produced (or remixed) have been added to major radio stations across the globe. Several titles Kane composed saw placement in hit U.S. television shows including “Elementary”, “Entourage”, “Love and Hip Hop: Miami”, “NUMB3RS”, “X-Factor”, “Punk’d”, “NFL on Fox”, “Canadian Idol”, and Tyra Banks’ “America’s Next Top Model”. Major motion pictures such as “Project X”, commercials (Sprite, McDonalds), and hit video games including “Need For Speed: Most Wanted” have also featured music produced by Marcus Kane as well.

Taya Marquis is a singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur with a fierce, ambitious fire. Taya’s music is a fusion of pop, R&B, hip-hip and world sounds topped by silky, rich vocals. She's opened for Tinashe and Taylor McFerrin, co-wrote with Ke$ha, and has been blessed with in-studio mentorship sessions by Young Guru, Jay Z's engineer. Taya’s Factor-funded EP, i’mperfect, uncovers the process of finding oneself, and is both an honest reflection on where she’s currently at in her life, as well as an embrace of our interconnectedness as humans. The first single off i'mperfect, "Be Who U Are" received 170K plays on Spotify. She uses her music as an avenue for mental health advocacy and enforces messages of self-discovery and #positiviTAY in her songwriting.

Overview: These sessions will unveil how this industry-leading software Melodyne is a staple in major studios globally, trusted by countless professionals. From fine-tuning vocals to molding samples, Melodyne offers a world of possibilities to polish and transform your recordings. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your music production skills and witness the magic of Melodyne firsthand!

Presenter: Rich Crescenti is a freelance engineer, producer, and drummer working out of several studios in NYC and LA. Rich has played music for over 30 years, and has been making recordings for over 20 years. Whether behind the glass or behind the kit, Rich helps bands make unique music and recordings. Contact him at Rich Makes Records.

Overview: Join 3-time JUNO Award-winning, platinum-selling music producer Johann Deterville, also known as Yogi The Producer, and SOCAN Creative Executive Lord Quest for a beat-making master class. Get an inside look at the creative process, the software, and the plug-ins Yogi uses to craft music for today’s top artists. You'll also pick up essential tips on how to elevate your own music. Whether you're an aspiring beat-maker or an industry professional, this "Cookin' Beats" panel offers an exclusive insider perspective on the craft.

Presenter: Yogi The Producer, is a platinum-selling music producer from Anse La Raye, Saint Lucia. Inspired by his mother, Petronilla Deterville, he pursued music production and sound engineering at the Centre for Arts and Technology. Yogi’s career took off upon moving to Toronto, Canada, where he's worked on records with major artists such as Drake, Nicki Minaj, Camila Cabello, Chris Brown, Bryson Tiller, Jessie Reyez, Dylan Sinclair, Savannah Ré and more. Notably, he scored the Spider-Man Miles Morales video game, earning Yogi a BAFTA Award. Here in Canada, Yogi has won three JUNO Awards with 13 nominations, and most recently, a SOCAN Award for Giveon’s “Scarred”. Yogi remains dedicated to supporting his Saint Lucian community and encouraging future musicians everywhere. "Cookin Beats" will be moderated by none other than LordQuest, a GRAMMY nominated record producer and songwriter from Toronto, Canada. He co-produced 2Chainz “Vlad TV”, and has worked with the likes of Kelly Rowland “The Kelly Rowland Edition EP”, Jordin Sparks “Unknown” & “Red Sangria”, Juice Wrld “Run”, Schoolboy Q”Blind Threats”, SiR “Thats Why I Love You”(feat Sabrina Claudio) and Arin Ray “F*ck Ya’ll & Zzz”. His discography inclusive of Isaiah Rashad, Bosco, G-Unit, Alex Aiono, Jozzy, Joyner Lucas, Dom Kennedy, etc is ever growing. He was previously apart of the Warner Music Canada A&R team overseeing their hiphop and RnB Talent and has since joined Socan as creative Executive of Black music.

Overview: Successful artists, producers, songwriters, and engineers often work with professional managers to handle the business side of their careers. But at what point does an artist need to bring in a manager? This masterclass will explore when it makes sense to hire a manager and how they can elevate an artist’s career. We’ll discuss key turning points—whether it’s after landing a big gig, gaining traction on streaming platforms, or preparing for a tour—when management becomes crucial. Additionally, we’ll break down the core responsibilities of a manager, from negotiating contracts and securing opportunities to handling day-to-day logistics and long-term career planning. Whether you're an emerging artist or an industry professional, this session will offer valuable insights into the timing and role of a manager in achieving career success.

Presenter: Jake Gold is one of Canada’s most successful artist managers, and for its 6-season run, a judge on the national television hit Canadian Idol. In 1981, Gold started his artist management company, The Management Trust, through which he is best known for his role in establishing and transforming The Tragically Hip into a national icon. In 2020, Gold reunited with the band to direct their legacy in Canadian music history; he also manages acclaimed pop rock band The Pursuit of Happiness, and music producers Moe Berg, Laurence Currie, and Russell Broom, and co–manages the quickly rising Pop R&B act Ethan Surman alongside Ryan Hefford. Gold has been recognized by the annual Canadian Music Industry Awards as Manager of the Year in 1991, 1993 and 1994. In 2009, Gold was elected to the board of CIMA (CIRPA) and had been Vice‐Chairman of CIMA for 10 years. Jake was also a board member for the MMF (Music Managers Forum), and was instrumental in starting the organization in the 90’s. In 2013 he was the recipient of MMF Honour Roll Award for his lifetime work in the field of Artist Management. In 2023 CIMA awarded Gold the “Change” award (formerly the builder award), for his many years of service to the board. Later that same year, he was also honoured along with his clients, The Tragically Hip, with the Founder award from Warchild Canada for their continued contribution to the charity. In 2024 Jake was inducted into the Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame. Jake currently sits on the Connect Music board as well as the Re:Sound board.

Interviewed by: Jay Gogna is an accomplished talent manager, legal professional, and emerging tech entrepreneur with a dual JD from the University of Windsor and Detroit Mercy Law School. Since launching his management company in 2019, Jay has built a reputation for nurturing top-tier talent, including Grammy-nominated producers Kevin Ekofo and Jamal Europe. His roster has collectively garnered over one billion streams globally, earned multiple Billboard No. One hits, more than four gold-certified plaques, and secured over four Grammy nominations.

Overview: Join us for an exclusive Master Class unveiling the PreSonus Studio One 7, where you'll get a first look at the groundbreaking updates and features that are set to transform music production. Explore all-new tools for recording, editing, and arranging, along with enhanced capabilities for mixing, mastering, and automation. This master class will dive deep into the upgraded drag-and-drop functionality, improved Melodyne integration, and customizable workflows, giving you the edge to produce professional-quality music faster and more intuitively than ever. Don’t miss this chance to be among the first to experience the new Studio One!

Presenter: Richard Gaspard, product specialist at PreSonus Audio Electronics, is a multi-talented professional. He's a bassist, singer, producer, arranger, voice artist, and Grammy-nominated recording engineer. His extensive career includes mixing over three thousand live and pre-taped TV broadcasts, as well as short films, radio, TV, and internet commercials, and numerous music recording projects. A native of Southwest Louisiana, Richard graduated from the University of Southwestern Louisiana in 1994 with a degree in contemporary music media. He resides in Baton Rouge, LA with his wife, and together, they form the duo Highs and Lows Music, showcasing their musical talents on YouTube HERE.

Overview: Are you passionate about music production and eager to create your own unique sound? Join us for an exciting seminar designed specifically for beginners: “How to Program Your Own VST Plugin” given by Bulent Biyikoglu, founder and head developer at KV331 Audio, maker or SynthMaster plugin.

This workshop will guide you through the fundamentals of developing Virtual Studio Technology (VST) plugins, which are essential tools for modern music production. In this session you will learn about setting up your Development Environment, Basis Programming Concepts, Audio Processing fundamentals, Creating Your First VST Plugin and Testing and Debugging. This session is ideal for aspiring programmers, music producers, audio engineers and anyone interested in expanding their music production toolkit. After this workshop, you will gain practical skills in VST plugin development, enhance your music production capabilities, and network with like-minded individual and industry professional.

Join us for this informative and hands-on seminar to kickstart your journey into the world of VST plugin development. Whether you’re looking to create unique sounds or simply expand your technical skills, this seminar is the perfect starting point. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to bring your musical ideas to life!

Overview: Writing a great song is a primary creative goal of most artists and songwriters worldwide. Getting the beat perfect is only one step. Getting the lyrics and melody just right is another step. Then – does it have a memorable hook? Does the style and production match the story? Is it engaging to listen from beginning to end?

In this panel, the Judges will preview the top songs from the online submissions and the chosen wild card selections from the preview sessions at the show.

The panel will discuss each song's merits, giving expert feedback. This master class is a fantastic opportunity to get insight into song structure, melody, lyrics, hook creation, production, general songsmith skills, and more.

After the live preview, the Judges will pick the Top Three Finalists!

It's live, interactive, and a valuable learning experience for everyone who attends. If you are interested in Songwriting and production, attend this event!

Our esteemed judges are Clint Ward (moderator), Ted Sevdalis, Eddie Bullen, Rosanne Baker Thornley, and Rob Wells.