In a nutshell, Norwich Sound & Vision 2010 is...

(Deep breath)... an annual music and multi-media convention taking place for the first time between 16 and 18 September 2010 in Norwich. What does that really mean? Well, the event will comprise of a conference featuring expert speakers from the music, film, TV and games industries. There will also be live music, film screenings and other interactive performances. Ever heard of the music and film conference called SXSW in Austin, Texas? Well, think of S&V as a taster... in Norwich. Yup, you sooo want to come to this!

...and it's needed because...

Norwich is always bursting at the seams with new music and film, to name but a few art forms; I reckon there's something in the water that makes this place a breeding ground for unusual creativity. We're lucky to have a unique community playing host to a plethora of multi-media based artistry, so why not have a convention based at the heart of it?

S&V will provide a platform for all of you who are involved – or want to be – in those multi-media channels. That means if you come along you'll get the opportunity to listen, engage and perhaps mosey around with labels, promoters, press, internet media peeps and artists who are coming to Norwich – yes, you heard right... Norwich – just for this conference. If learning how to get your music licensed in film/TV is your bag or even how to get your band out on the touring and festival circuit, then I guess we'll see you on 18 September. Those are just a couple of the subjects that will be open to discussion with our delectable roster of panellists from across the music/radio/film/multi-media industry. You never know, you may even forge new partnerships... stranger things have happened. Ultimately, this is about learning something new and being inspired!

So who's your target audience?

Those of you:

1. who are hungry to know more about putting your art out there or who perhaps might be a tad frustrated with the lack of tools you have to get your 'thing' off the ground: we hope to give you something to get your teeth into

2. who are just a bit curious as to what the heck this is all about

3. that want to get involved with something that has never had the chance to come to Norwich before: come join us!

4. who like to network with like-minded individuals, bands/musicians, record labels, filmmakers, designers, writers and anyone with an interest in the music, film and multi- media industries

5. that would like to reach new markets and fresh thinking

6. that just want to learn something new... embrace your inner mind's sponge. Be inspired and have a fantastic time on us.

What are the five most important things we need know about the convention?

1. S&V is in its inaugural year so this is a very special occasion for all of us. Please come and support it so that we can hopefully do the same next year!

2. Our expert speaker panellists won't speak fluent industry jargon, unless you really want them to. They hail from music/radio/film/TV/multi-media industries around the globe bringing fresh perspectives with them. You'll have the opportunity to get involved and drive the discussions taking place. If you've got an opinion come and share it. Open your mind and leave your egos at the door.

3. There'll be a veritable feast of music: please check our website, NAC's and the UEA box office for full details.

4. From Monday 13 until Saturday 18 September, between 10am and 5pm, there will be a festival of short films – up to 15 minutes each that use music as a common axis – exhibiting at Fusion in The Forum, Europe's largest permanent digital screen gallery, which is an amazing 24m x 2.5m. Feast your eyes for free.

5. Come prepared – bring your demos, contact cards, sketchbooks. You may get the chance to show 'n' tell.

How can we find out more?

Check out www.norwichsoundandvision.co.uk for the low down and contact norwichsoundandvision@cme.org.uk for more info.

You can find us on facebook, come and be our friend – we won't bite.

Conference: see box below.

S&V gig tickets can be bought separately from the conference tickets. All shows are at Norwich Arts Centre, start at 8pm, and are priced at £7 adv/£8 door, or a £15 wristband will give you entry to all three nights:

Thursday 16 September:
Serena Maneesh, Sennen, Pumajaw.

Friday 17 September:
Here We Go Magic, The Lost Levels, These Ghosts.

Saturday 18 September:
Dinosaur Pile-up, Bearsuit, Fever Fever.