12–13 December | George High School

George, Western Cape — Artists, musicians, podcasters, and creatives from across the Western Cape are invited to a dynamic FREE two-day workshop designed to equip them with the tools, insights, and industry intelligence needed to build stronger, sustainable creative careers.

Hosted at George High School on 12 and 13 December, this workshop promises unmatched access to some of South Africa’s most respected creative leaders — including six powerhouse speakers, with the two-day programme officially opened by the George Municipality Tourism Manager.

This energised, knowledge-rich event is not to be missed, with industry experts providing practical guidance on intellectual property, royalties, radio, podcasting, management, media, and more.

Among the standout presenters is Craig Parks, celebrated founder of the iconic Jazzathon Festival, who will offer an exclusive preview of Jazzathon 2026, along with deep insights into live shows, technical riders, and industry expectations.

The workshop also features a strong roster of additional speakers whose experience and influence stretch across broadcasting, policy development, music management, media, and performance.

WHY CREATIVES SHOULD ATTEND

• Gain Strategic Guidance From Industry Leaders
• Learn directly from professionals who have shaped the country’s creative landscape. From streaming to sync deals, royalties to public sector opportunities, speakers will help you navigate the business behind your craft.
• Unlock New Revenue Streams
• Understand how copyright, IP, collecting agencies, and new legislation can help you monetise your art more effectively.
• Connect With a Vibrant Creative Community
• Meet fellow musicians, media practitioners, producers, podcasters, and arts entrepreneurs — and tap into new collaborations.

FEATURED SPEAKERS

Mhlanganisi Masoga

Director for Local Economic Development at the Department of Small Business Development, formerly Director of Cultural and Creative Industries (the dtic).
A leading specialist in creative industry strategy and IP for SMMEs, Masoga has shaped key national policies including the National Creative Industries Masterplan. His session will unpack the power of IP and its role in securing long-term creative income.

Germaine Leonard 

UCT Graduate and Afro-Smooth Jazz guitarist admired for his Jonathan Butler–like style, Germaine combines decades of performance experience with a powerful keynote: “Why We Do What We Do.”

 Germaine is also the MC for the two day event 

Brendan (Spike) Ballantine

Podcasting specialist and audio production expert covering concept development, editing, mixing, and branded storytelling. His session demystifies podcasting and how creatives can use it to expand their reach.

Martin Myers

Founder of Music Exchange (MEX) and host of The Business of Entertainment on CapeTalk and former Sony/BMG record executive for 17 years in the Western Cape.Martin is a  veteran of 30+ years in the industry, Martin will break down collecting agencies, metadata, management, and the real business behind music careers.

Craig Parks

Founder of Jazzathon, Craig will share professional insights on live show preparation, tech riders, and what to expect on the road to Jazzathon 2026.

Eden FM & George Herald

Media professionals from both Eden FM and George Herald will give attendees an inside look at how local media works and how creatives can leverage radio and news platforms to build their profile.

EVENT DETAILS

Admission: FREE -TICKETS FROM Quicket   https://www.quicket.co.za/events/348799-ip-music-industry-workshop-for-artists/#/

Venue: George High School
Dates: 12 & 13 December — both days start at 09:00
Queries: Germaine Leonard — germaineleonardmusic@gmail.com

CALLING ALL CREATIVES

Seats are limited — secure your free attendance now and gain access to two days of invaluable insights, inspiration, and industry connections.

Join us as we unpack the business behind the music — and build a stronger creative economy together.