MIDEM 2009: French Connections.

Despite global economic woes, Midem maintains its value as the one constant for the international music industry. Now in its 43rd year, the Cannes-based convention continues to innovate and stimulate...

By Christopher Barrett

For many in the music business, Midem is an essential constant in an ever-changing industry - somewhere to listen and learn, debate, network and negotiate deals.

In 1967, when Midem first opened its doors to the international music community, around 900 industry representatives from 11 countries attended the event; this year, the music business' 43rd annual invasion of Cannes is expected to see close to 10,000 professionals descend upon the Palais des Festivals.

Few delegates that attended that first Midem would recognise the music business today. Now, with revenues from the sale of physical music product on a seemingly endless downward spiral, the need to create value and establish new revenue streams in the digital market is becoming ever more vital.

In its 10th year the digital conference Midemnet will, as usual, kick off Midem proper with two days of panels, workshops and keynote speeches. Among the leading industry executives scheduled to step up to the mike this year for keynote addresses are Google VP of content partnerships David Eun, MySpace Music president Courtney Holt and Nokia EVP, entertainment communities Dr Tero Ojanpera who will discuss Comes With Music.

Key elements of Midem itself, which is taking place a week earlier than usual from January 18-21, will include the indie summit, the live music summit and international managers summit, the latter of which is set to involve key industry figures including Radiohead co-manager Brian Message and MusicLore Ltd CEO and Eric Clapton's business manager Michael Eaton.