International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. Join us as we reflect on and celebrating diversity in the music industry.

Exciting and thought-provoking events will include; live performances from RBC students alongside guest musicians, visual and sound installations, yoga and mindfulness classes, networking, female-led practical workshops, and panel discussions. All are welcome!

“An equal world is an enabled world” #BalanceForBetter

Schedule

10.00-11.00 Registration and light breakfast (RBC lower Foyer)

Come and meet the team, plan your day, and chat to the other delegates with a “build your own breakfast” involving a selection of fruit, nut yogurt, and granola.

10.00-12.00 Movement and mindfulness drop-in sessions with Alison Butler (Organ Studio)

Throughout the morning Alison Butler will be offering free guided meditation and movement. Alison Butler will start the sessions everyone 30 minutes but you are welcome to come and go as you need.

You do not need to have any prior experience of yoga or mediation to join in - Everything will be provided and you do not need to bring a change of clothing.

10.00-14.00 “Body Image” *(The Lab)

This is an installation specifically created for IWD 2020 led by Masters composer Emily Abdy.

Please explore the space throughout the morning and lunch time.

11.00-13.00 Practical Workshops (Workshop 5 / Eastside Jazz Club)

There are 4 workshops taking place. Limited availability, please sign up on the day:

11.00-12.00

1.Jazz Masterclass

2.Women in Music Technology

12.00-13.00

1.Whose Voice? How to become an activist Anna Bull

2.Media Training for Musicians Diane Kemp

13.00-14.00 Lunch

Food is not provided but will be available to buy in the RBC café

14.00-15.15 Guest Panel * (Eastside Jazz Club)

We have an invited guest panel who will be discussing equality, diversity and inclusion within the music industry.

Deborah Annette ISM (Dignity in Study & Work)

Eleanor Wilson NMC Recordings

Robin Sheffield Royal Philharmonic Society

Angela Slater Illuminate Women’s Music

15.15-15.30 Break

15.30-17.00 Pop-Up Performances * (LAB)

1.Chloe Knibbs The Girl Behind the Glass *

2.Georgina Denham Live electronics

3.Fumiko Miyachi Portrait Album

17.00-17.30 – Meet the Composers (LAB)

Meet the composers involved in the “pop-up performances” an informal Q&A

17.30-18.30 – Drinks Reception and guest performance from “In Her Shoes” (Foyer)

“In Her Shoes” create opportunities and spaces for women and girls to come together, share creative experiences and have fun. We believe in women’s empowerment and personal development https://inhershoes.org.uk/

18.30-20.30 – Open Mic Night (Eastside Jazz Club)

Hear some of Birmingham’s top female performers as part of International Women’s Day. Musicians include Royal Birmingham Conservatoire alumni such as the “formidable” (BBC Radio 3) Rosie Tee with her unique alt-pop jazz influenced songs, and experimental songwriter, pyscho-performer & sound artist Anna Palmer, best known for her bewitching tones as vocalist & multi-instrumentalist in Birmingham’s beloved weirdo-pop band Dorcha. There will also be an improvised set from cultural artist Millicent Chapanda and Multi-instrumentalist composer Natalie Mason.

If you would like to part-take in the open mic night event please let the organisers know in advance via email. There may be spaces available on the day for additional music, readings comedy, but please let us know beforehand!

* Please be aware that some of the issues explored in this event may be sensitive for some people. Themes include, but are not limited to: mental health and sexual abuse/harassment. We have a trained counsellor on site (from the local charity RSVP) who will be there until 6pm to offer advice and support.