SMIA – Scottish Music Industry Association
A few weeks ago, I attended a guest lecture about SMIA, the Scottish Music Industry Association, held by Robert Kilpatrick (a former student of the same degree I am studying). Here is a few reasons why SMIA are one of the places you need to be known to if you’re to progress in the Scottish Music scene
First of all, they’re quickly building up a reputation around the continent, and also around Scotland as well. This is a business that wants to succeed, this is a business that wants to show the world how good Scotland is in this industry, why we are regarded as one of the leading countries in terms of music quality and production
Moving on, there are more benefits that meets the eye. For starters, there are 4 possible membership options, ranging from the free “basic” membership (handy for all students out there) which includes options like a monthly newsletter on the industry, the ability to go to workshop and networking events as well is another thing that stands out on the list. Then there’s 3 more options, ranging from £24 to £250 annually. £250 may seem like a lot of money, but with options such as masterclasses on the Scottish industry, access to a list of current professionals
Finally, the SAY awards. SAY stands for Scottish Album of the Year, and it’s arguably the biggest award going in the industry at the moment. Each year, members of the public and labels can submit albums on the event website, with 100 impartial nominators to decide on
what album deserves to win. There’s more than winning though, with £20,000 prize money available to the winner, along with the 9 other short-listed acts receiving £1,000, as part of the backing the SMIA receives from Creative Scotland
Overall, I believe the SMIA is something that has to at least be considered if you’re looking for success in Scotland. They’ve got years of experience and know how to work the industries, let’s use their experience
Keith
Music Review Scotland 