Impala members launch a new educational project in the central and eastern European region - CEE Independent Music Academy

21 February 2025 - Press release

 

Last week in Ljubljana, during the annual MENT Showcase and Industry Conference, a group of trade associations members introduced a new initiative—the CEE Independent Music Academy, supported by IMPALA.

Developed through a collaborative effort by several independent associations in Central and Eastern Europe (ANMIP Bulgaria, BMYD Turkey, HAIL Hungary, IndieRo Romania and RUNDA Adria), and supported by IMPALA, this project aims to address a gap in the region's educational landscape. The goal is to support entry-level professionals by providing them with fundamental industry knowledge and practical skills, helping them take their first steps in the music sector. At the same time, the Academy hopes to benefit companies by connecting them with emerging talent eager to apply their skills in a professional environment.
 
The Academy's syllabus has been shaped by national trade associations, with input from local experts, and will be periodically updated to reflect industry developments. The initial program will offer an introduction to key areas such as the music ecosystem, digital marketing and playlisting, A&R, copyright and neighbouring rights, and the fundamentals of music release strategies. Additionally, participants will have opportunities to engage with industry professionals through regional conferences, mentorship programs, and internships.
 
We encourage both aspiring professionals and industry companies to express their interest by filling out this form to receive further updates. The detailed program and timeline will be determined based on ongoing funding proposals.

Dario Draštata, Chair of IMPALA, President of regional association RUNDA Adria and Executive Director of Dallas Records commented: "Investing in skills and education is essential for the growth of the independent music sector. By helping new professionals gain a solid foundation, the CEE Independent Music Academy can contribute to strengthening the industry and fostering new opportunities."
 
Kees Van Weijen, CEO STOMP, Executive Board Member IMPALA commented: "For years, our global mission has been to level the playing field for independent music businesses across Europe. This initiative reinforces that commitment by fostering stronger connections between industry professionals in Central and Eastern Europe and ensuring that expertise is shared to shape the industry of tomorrow."
 
Ruth Koleva, Board Director ANMIP continued: "Collaboration and knowledge exchange are at the heart of what we do. This Academy aligns perfectly with our broader objective of empowering our members to learn from each other, grow their businesses, and contribute to a dynamic and interconnected independent music ecosystem across Europe."
 
Karla Rogožar, Network Development, Sustainability and Project Manager, IMPALA finalised: "Developing the Central and Eastern European market is one of IMPALA's priorities and it's exciting to see cooperative opportunities such as this one emerging in the region. We also look forward to see the possibility of expand this initiative further, including collaboration with existing educational structures to enhance its impact and reach."
 
Organisations participating in the development and execution of the CEE Independent Academy:
ANMIP (Bulgaria)
BMYD (Turkey)
HAIL (Hungary)
IndieRo (Romania)
RUNDA (Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Slovenia)