Bill Henderson, Dan Hill and Sue Medley are among a diverse group of music business professionals who will attend the fifth annual Vancouver Island Music Business Conference.
It happens Oct. 12 to 14 at various venues in the Comox Valley.
The event offers seminars and workshops covering all aspects of the music business, from singing and songwriting to management and music law.
The weekend is geared towards anyone involved in the music business — or anyone interested in learning about the inner workings of the music industry.
There will be a presence from SOCAN (Society of Composers, Authors and Music Publishers), FACTOR (Foundation to Assist Canadian Talent on Records), SAC (Songwriters' Association of Canada) and Music B.C.
A new twist this year is the Great Canadian Song Race, where 28 songwriters co-write seven songs in one day, with guidance from seven songwriter mentors.
"It seems like a fun way to tie it all together," said event organizer Susie McGregor, noting the Song Race is inspired by singing shows and the Dragon's Den. "There will be seven new songs written and the seven new songs will be produced by Juno and Grammy award-winning producers on Day 2 in all the studios in town."
Songs will be pitched on the third day to a panel of music industry professionals.
Henderson, lead singer/guitarist of Chilliwack, has attended past VIMBC conferences.
"He loves the Valley and he loves to teach and talk about the industry," McGregor said. "And of course he loves to play."
Chilliwack will perform at the Whistle Stop on the Saturday night, while participants in the Song Race will take the stage at Billy D's. Saturday also features a youth showcase at the Zocalo Café.
An all-star jam will be held Sunday at the Whistle Stop, while Applebee's will host a youth wrap party.
"We have a large element of youth," McGregor said. "Even with the Song Race there's a lot of young, great