The US podcast Bandsplaining and the pioneers at Bedroom Community have confirmed their participation in the IA conference, taking place alongside the Iceland Airwaves festival on 5 and 6 November at Sjálfstæðissalurinn (formerly Nasa).

Organised by Iceland Airwaves, Iceland Music, Business Iceland, and Reykjavík Music City, the conference has established itself as Iceland’s premier music industry event. The organising team places strong emphasis on delivering a programme that is both diverse and forward-thinking, making the conference an essential gathering for Icelandic and international music professionals alike - serving as a hub for learning, strategy, and celebration.

‍

‍Tickets Available Here >>

Below is an overview of the sessions and participants announced today, with further events and speakers to be revealed over the coming weeks and months. We encourage anyone interested to sign up for the Iceland Music newsletter to receive updates directly to their inbox.

Bandsplain: The Sugarcubes

‍

‍

Hosted by Yasi Salek, music podcast Bandsplain dives deep into the histories and discographies of artists who often thrive on the fringes, unpacking why listeners fall so deeply for them. At the IA conference, the spotlight turns to The Sugarcubes, dissecting their lasting impact on Icelandic music culture. Joining Yasi as a guest is British journalist and author Miranda Sawyer—writer of Uncommon People: Britpop and Beyond in 20 Songs and host of the podcast Talk '90s to Me.

‍

Bedroom Community at 20

‍

‍

The legendary record collective Bedroom Community celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. To mark the milestone, composer, producer, and founder Valgeir Sigurðsson joins us for a fireside chat at the conference. Bedroom Community hardly needs an introduction: from its inception, the label emerged as a pioneering force at the intersection of classical music and 21st-century technology. Ever since, it has continued to challenge and delight listeners with unexpected releases bound by a singular artistic vision. In conversation, Valgeir will explore how that vision has grown, weathered, and evolved over two decades - from their roots in Breiðholt to major stages at the Barbican, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and beyond - and what lies on the horizon.

‍

‍

IA conference announces 8 additional speakers

In addition to Bandsplain and Bedroom Community, ten more industry professionals have confirmed their participation this autumn:

‍

‍

"Showcase Festivals: Why Do We Do This to Ourselves?"

‍

‍

Caitlin-Finn Ballard is a live booking agent at ROAM’s London office, where she has worked for the past six years. Her background spans sound engineering, music journalism, performing in bands, and various frontline roles across the music industry.

Harley Cassidy is a live music promoter at AEG in London and runs the club night Plastic Factory, supporting artists in the early stages of their careers. Previously, she worked in A&R across various labels, including Columbia Records, and as a head booker for grassroots music venues.

Yuka Sato is Director of Programmes and Partnerships at CUEW, an international music showcase and conference connecting emerging Japanese artists with the global music industry. She leads international partnerships and conference programming, working across Asia and Europe to create opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and collaboration.

‍

‍

 "Anybody in There? Human Curation in the age of the algorithm"

Paul Bridgewater is Content Director and Editor-in-Chief of UK online music magazine The Line of Best Fit. The publication has spotlighted new and emerging music from around the world since 2006 and celebrates its 20th birthday this year.

Josie Anne Gaitens is a cultural organiser specialising in meaningful and creative development in the music industry, joining East of Moon in 2024, where her work spans writing, teaching, production, and design. She is also a board member of Vökufélagið, an association working to build a vibrant and inclusive folk arts community in Iceland.

‍

"From Local to Global: Against the Odds" 

Edmond Lenarth is Head of Booking & Programming at Electric Castle in Romania, with over 10 years of experience in the music industry. He oversees artist booking and festival programming, with a focus on discovering emerging international talent and bringing fresh acts to the Romanian and Central Eastern European music scene.

"Live and Kicking: What’s Next for the Live Sector"

Jess Kinn is a senior agent and partner at global live booking agency ROAM. Recognised for her artist-focused approach, she represents a diverse roster including Olly Alexander (Years & Years), Africa Express, Pale Waves, Moonchild Sanelly, Say She She, Esmeralda Road, and The Aces.

‍

‍

"Flights, Freight & Festivals: It’s Not Easy Being Green" 

‍

‍

Alexandra Kjeld is an Environmental Engineer and environmentalconsultant at EFLAConsultingEngineers, specialising in Life Cycle Assessment and carbon footprinting. With a BA in Musicology, she also has over 20 years of experience across live music, publishing, community development, and event and festival organising, currently with VAKA Folk Arts Festival.

‍