MIRC 2011 provides successful platform for pro audio’s big names

Some of the industry’s biggest names turned out at MIRC 2011 to network and share their latest innovations.

With over 250 dealers in attendance, the likes of Monacor, Yamaha, Audio-Technica, Avid, TC Group International, Wharfedale, Tascam and Roland took to the floor, demonstrating their latest products.

The event was kicked off by a conference, which saw various industry experts and retailers take the stage to deliver industry advice, as well as participate in panels and fielding questions from the audience, with a particular focus on the pros and cons of third-party selling and the importance of utilising social networking as a marketing tool.

The conference was closed by a speech from CEO of UK Music, Feargal Sharkey, stating his belief that in times of recession, the music industry eventually thrives and that there is cause for optimism, in spite of the economic crisis.

“We have a jaw dropping musical heritage here and all of us here help contribute to the multi-billion-pound annual boost to the economy caused by music,” said Sharkey. “It’s been the first recession of the digital era –making it uncharted territory – but the music industry has always driven innovation and been at the very heart of it.

“You guys are the original social network and I don’t see a time where we’re not consuming and enjoying music. That gives us a future. If we continue to be passionate about what we do, we will succeed.”

The MI Retail Conference and Expo 2011 was sponsored by Yamaha, Audio-Technica, Barnes & Mullins, Music Sales, Avid distributed by CU, Allianz Music Insurance, Ashdown, Casio, CPC, FCN Music, Intermusic, Korg, Lamba, Mel Bay, Monacor, Numark, Pioneer, Rotosound, Sound King, Tanglewood, TC Group International, Tomandwill, Wharfedale and Tascam, with Roland once again sponsoring the after-show party.

The event’s headline sponsor was Musikmesse.