Focused on the Future

It has become more apparent throughout the business world that there is strength in numbers. If you have a problem it is important to rely on your peers to discuss these issues and collectively solve the problem… Enter the concept of networking and industry associations. In the 1970s the live music scene was rapidly changing with the popularity of large outdoor concerts, (i.e. Woodstock). Many buyers and promoters were having difficulty paying for talent, paying for the venues, and charging a fair admission price while still being able to make a profit off of the event. Eventually two of these buyers decided that it would be beneficial for them to create a group which would allow buyers and promoters to communicate formally, while also giving them a voice in the live entertainment industry.

These two men, Hubert Long, a country music promoter and Hap (Harry) Peebles, a show promoter, later founded the International Country Music Buyers Association. Within the last 40 years the association has dealt with issues affecting the live entertainment industry, honored members with various awards, as well as decided to drop “Country Music” from its name to become the International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) to gain more members from all-different genres of the music industry. Today the association is more than 800 members strong and is currently planning their 42^nd Annual Conference this coming October.

Not only does the IEBA offer a way for buyers and promoters to network with each other, but it also helps them stay up to date with issues plaguing the live entertainment industry. However, my interest in the IEBA at this point is because of the many benefits they offer to students looking to start a career in the live entertainment industry. Aside from scholarships, the IEBA offers students and recent graduates the opportunity to intern for credit and tuition money, while also receiving mentoring and experience in the live entertainment industry.  Another of the benefits for students in the internship program is the opportunity to help in the planning of the conferences and member events, in addition to being able to attend various industry events.

The IEBA over the past 40 years has given industry professionals a place to network in order to discuss industry issues and stay up to date on the latest trends. What separates IEBA from other associations is their willingness to work with students to help develop their skills and give them the ability to network with their future peers. As a student looking forward to a future in the live entertainment industry, I was excited to find an association that not only deals with current issues in live entertainment, but also focuses on the future.

Click here for the full history of the IEBA

Click here for more information on the opportunities available to students

-Lisa -