99% of Europe\u2019s music companies are small, micro and medium businesses and self-releasing artists. Known as the independents, they are world leaders in terms of innovation and discovering new music and artists, as they produce more than 80% of all new releases (IMPALA).<\/p>
It\u2019s the time and place where Greek & Greek Cypriot record label professionals meet, get connected and set the basis for an Independent Trade Association.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
99% of Europe\u2019s music companies are small, micro and medium businesses and self-releasing artists. Known as the independents, they are world leaders in terms of innovation and discovering new music and artists, as they produce more than 80% of all new releases (IMPALA). It\u2019s the time and place where Greek & Greek Cypriot record label […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"tags":[],"event-cat":[492],"nationality":[],"music-genre":[],"destination":[],"topic":[],"language":[79],"class_list":["post-23758","event","type-event","status-publish","hentry","event-cat-roundtables","language-english-el"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"","ams_acf":[{"key":"performers","label":"Performers","value":[{"ID":17972,"post_author":"1898","post_date":"2023-05-10 18:33:51","post_date_gmt":"2023-05-10 15:33:51","post_content":"\n
Andreas Periklis Metaxas holds a BA in Political Science from the National University of Athens and an MA in Media Studies from the Erasmus University of Rotterdam.
He is currently a Senior Marketing Manager at Stay Independent, one of the leading record companies in Greece with over 300 signed artists and 8 music labels.
Additionally, he is the Co-Founder of Legal Pizza, an Athens-based media\/entertainment company focused on talk shows and podcasts dedicated to youth culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
W\u0394R, also known as Nikolas Haniotis, is a visionary leader in the music industry. As the Head of Mental Sect Records and A&R Manager of INDIY music distribution, he is well-known for his impeccable taste, creative vision, and unwavering commitment to supporting emerging talent. With over a decade of experience in the industry, W\u0394R has established himself as a driving force behind some of the most innovative and boundary-pushing electronic music in the world. Drawing on his deep knowledge of music and business, he has been instrumental in identifying and cultivating rising stars, helping to shape the sound of the future. Whether he is working with established artists or nurturing new talent, W\u0394R is deeply committed to innovation and creativity. Known for his ability to bring out the best in the artists he works with, he is widely respected for his integrity, vision, and passion for music. <\/p>\n\n\n\n As a leader, W\u0394R is dedicated to fostering a culture of collaboration and experimentation, inviting artists to push the boundaries of what is possible and creating a supportive environment where they can do their best work. His commitment to excellence and innovation is what sets him apart from his peers and makes him a true visionary in the world of music. As he continues to guide the music industry forward, W\u0394R is a force to be reckoned with, a true trailblazer who is shaping the sound of the future. With his unique perspective and unwavering dedication, he is poised to make a lasting impact on the music industry for years to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Chris Hocking is a seasoned music industry professional. With a diverse background encompassing creator roles, artist management, record label A&R, and digital rights management, Chris is dedicated to shaping a better music industry. <\/p>\n\n\n\n He is the founder of indiy.com a marketplace for music services, the founder of The Factory Music Group and the International Project Manager for MESO Events working on Music Tech Europe Academy and Athens Music Week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n After graduating from Berklee College of Music with a degree in Music Production and Engineering and in Contemporary Writing and Production, Trachonitis established his own recording facility, studio eleven63 in Nicosia, Cyprus.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n From his studio, he works with the cream of the Cypriot scene and with acclaimed international clients, producing, recording and mixing records, songs, jingles, film scores, and designing sound for animations.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n In addition to his studio work, he has extensive experience in live music through his role as production manager of Fengaros Festival and Louvana Records as well as being the coordinator of various European projects such as Eurotoire Circuit.<\/p>\n\n Linkedin: \u00a0https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/trachonitis<\/a><\/p>\n\n Websites: Kees van Weijen has been working in the Entertainment Industry in the Netherlands, Belgium and Great Britain since 1974. Co-founder of The Factory Music Group, I focus on scalable processes, quality control, data analytics and growth strategies.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n Giorgos is a passionate advocate for independent music, committed to dismantling any system that confines art to a mere commodity. With over a decade of experience in the music industry, he's navigated various roles to comprehend the industry's intricacies from mixed angles. Born and raised in Thessaloniki, Greece, Giorgos's musical journey began early, nurtured by a household steeped in appreciation for music. His classical training and exploration as an artist laid the foundation for his career. As a teenager, he embarked on numerous music projects, one of which propelled him and his bandmates to seek international opportunities in the United Kingdom. These experiences ignited his entrepreneurial spirit and shaped his perspective, leading him to transition from artist to industry supporter. Since then, he has worked with a diverse portfolio of artists across the globe and companies in the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands. <\/p>\n\n\n\n From artist management and service companies to immersive roles in record labels, and music publishers, Giorgos honed his skills and crystallized his vision. In his quest to amplify independent voices, Giorgos founded \"Violet Crown,\" a sanctuary for what he terms \"unconventional pop\" and a haven for industry \"misfits.\" As he continues to carve his path in the industry, Giorgos strives to cultivate a more inclusive and vibrant music ecosystem. His vision extends beyond commercial success, aiming to foster cultural impact, provide a platform for artists of all backgrounds to flourish, and reshape the music landscape for creators worldwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Musician (vocals, bass), DJing, Organizing of music events and festivals, Owner of record store, Club owner, Producer, Owner of record distribution company, Co-owner of a recording studio, Managment and promotion, Record company owner<\/p>\n","post_title":"George Roilidis (GR)","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"george-roilidis-gr","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-05-14 16:31:13","post_modified_gmt":"2024-05-14 13:31:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.athensmusicweek.gr\/?post_type=speaker&p=24002","menu_order":0,"post_type":"speaker","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":22920,"post_author":"1","post_date":"2024-05-08 19:40:39","post_date_gmt":"2024-05-08 16:40:39","post_content":"\n Ariel\u00a0de\u00a0Balkan\u00a0is a music producer, singer and songwriter based in Athens, Greece. By navigating into the Greek music ecosystem she noticed the lack of female representation. She is currently building a female artist empowerment music hub in Athens called UnderTheShe Records. Her goal is to create a safer space for female and non-binary artists, where they can make music, learn about the music industry, exchange ideas and support each other within the UnderTheShe community.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Ariel de Balkan (GR)","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"ariel-de-balkan-gr","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-05-02 15:24:28","post_modified_gmt":"2025-05-02 12:24:28","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.athensmusicweek.gr\/?post_type=speaker&p=22920","menu_order":0,"post_type":"speaker","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":22716,"post_author":"1566","post_date":"2024-05-08 13:22:01","post_date_gmt":"2024-05-08 10:22:01","post_content":"\n Mando Chastouki is a digital and music rights expert with a decade of experience working with artists, songwriters, and music companies across Europe and the US. Originating from Greece and now firmly based in London for the past seven years, her expertise spans digital platforms, user-generated content, and emerging technologies, particularly in the realm of music rights. Mando's journey includes roles as Music Business and Copyright consultant for Music Ally, and more recently, as Business Development Manager for the global music-tech company Orfium. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Driven by her passion for music and advocacy for independent artists and businesses, Mando has also worked extensively in artist and record label management and is currently managing the Greek rock band Nightstalker. With extensive knowledge of the rock and metal scene, the digital landscape and rights management, Mando founded Lyst Music Publishing in 2024 - a boutique publishing company focusing on heavy and alternative sound which aims for better rights administration worldwide and seeking to give these genres and artists the attention they deserve.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Links<\/strong>:
Linkedin: https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/andreasperiklis\/<\/a>
Instagram: https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/andreasperikles\/<\/a><\/p>\n","post_title":"Andreas Periklis Metaxas\u00a0(GR)","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"andreas-periklis-metaxas-gr","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-10 18:08:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-10 15:08:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.athensmusicweek.gr\/?post_type=speaker&p=17972","menu_order":0,"post_type":"speaker","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":22804,"post_author":"1566","post_date":"2024-05-08 16:09:59","post_date_gmt":"2024-05-08 13:09:59","post_content":"\n
Links<\/strong>:
Linkedin: https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/nikolas-w%CE%B4r-haniotis-921007231?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
<\/a>
Facebook: https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/nick.haniotis<\/a><\/p>\n","post_title":"Nikolas W\u0394R Haniotis (GR)","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"nikolas-w%ce%b4r-haniotis-gr","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-05-08 16:10:02","post_modified_gmt":"2024-05-08 13:10:02","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.athensmusicweek.gr\/?post_type=speaker&p=22804","menu_order":0,"post_type":"speaker","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":22089,"post_author":"1900","post_date":"2024-04-29 19:22:57","post_date_gmt":"2024-04-29 16:22:57","post_content":"\n
Links<\/strong>:
Linkedin: https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/chris-indiy\/<\/a><\/p>\n","post_title":"Chris Hocking (UK\/GR)","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"chris-hocking-gr","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-05 10:10:12","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-05 07:10:12","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.athensmusicweek.gr\/?post_type=speaker&p=22089","menu_order":0,"post_type":"speaker","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":16917,"post_author":"1555","post_date":"2023-04-24 08:33:10","post_date_gmt":"2023-04-24 05:33:10","post_content":"\n
He acquired experience in the worldwide music entertainment industry. Kees has built up a substantial international network. Enjoys working with people where the artists are number 1.
During the span of his career Kees has worked for Universal Music as Executive Vice President, MD of Mercury, MCA and Polydor, Rough Trade Distribution. With artists such as INXS, The Cure, Kiss, Elton John, Dire Straits, LIVE, Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, Metallica, No Doubt, U2, Lionel Ritchie, Caro Emerald,\u00a0 Tiesto, Jimmy Lidel, Armin van Buuren, The Editors and many others.
He is currently running HIT4US.com as MD and executive board member of IMPALA.
Dutch IFPI awarded him with the \u201cZilveren Fonograaf\u201c for outstanding contribution in the Dutch music industry. He is President of STOMP, Stichting Onafhankelijke Muziek Producenten in The Netherlands. For 8 years he was Chairman and President of IMPALA.\u00a0The latter awarded him in June 2022 with the Outstanding Contribution Award by Impala in\u00a0recognition for his outstanding contribution to the European Independent Music Sector.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Kees van Weijen (NL)","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"kees-van-weijen-be","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-05-08 13:10:13","post_modified_gmt":"2024-05-08 10:10:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.athensmusicweek.gr\/?post_type=speaker&p=16878","menu_order":0,"post_type":"speaker","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":23933,"post_author":"1566","post_date":"2024-05-14 11:50:23","post_date_gmt":"2024-05-14 08:50:23","post_content":"\n
Links<\/strong>:
Linkedin: https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/alex-cylwik-70a739190?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
<\/a>
Website: https:\/\/thefactorymusicgroup.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n","post_title":"Alex Cylwik (UK)","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"alex-cylwik-uk","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-05-14 12:07:17","post_modified_gmt":"2024-05-14 09:07:17","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.athensmusicweek.gr\/?post_type=speaker&p=23933","menu_order":0,"post_type":"speaker","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":21705,"post_author":"1566","post_date":"2024-04-27 13:10:44","post_date_gmt":"2024-04-27 10:10:44","post_content":"\n
Links<\/strong>:
Linkedin: https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/gsazotis\/<\/a>
Instagram: https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/gsazotis\/<\/a><\/p>\n","post_title":"Giorgos Sazotis (GR)","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"giorgos-sazotis-gr","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2024-04-27 13:10:46","post_modified_gmt":"2024-04-27 10:10:46","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.athensmusicweek.gr\/?post_type=speaker&p=21705","menu_order":0,"post_type":"speaker","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":24002,"post_author":"1555","post_date":"2024-05-14 15:43:22","post_date_gmt":"2024-05-14 12:43:22","post_content":"\n