Jim Norris, publisher of Canadian Musician magazine, told those who attended an open house yesterday at Metalworks Institute of Sound and Music Production that they must think globally if they want to be successful in the business.
The Mavis Rd. studio/school hosts open house sessions every month for people considering a future in the business.
"The focus lately is on declining CD sales, and that's true," said Norris, also an instructor at Metalworks. "We need new artists to create some excitement, sure, but still, the music and entertainment industry is not going away."
He cited the $300 million the broadcasting industry made last year. The gaming industry is bigger than music, and as boomers retire, the entertainment industry will be even bigger.
Globally, careers are booming, Norris said, pointing to Cirque de Soleil (with six shows daily in Las Vegas), cruise ships, Disney and the film industry as examples.
"If you're willing to go to India, it's the second-largest film industry in the world next to Hollywood," he said. "There are 450 million people over there speaking English. The point is, you have to think globally."
That sounds good to Ryan Chopik, 17, who attended the open house with his dad, Jerry. Ryan, who wants to be a musician, is starting a two-year stint at Metalworks next January.
"This (open house) was kind of a tease because I don't start until January, and it was interesting to hear (Norris) speak," Ryan said.
It also reaffirmed his decision to attend Metalworks.
"You can't put a price tag on the contacts that it provides," he said.
Ryan, who plays guitar, bass, drums, organ and sax, said he realizes he also needs to know the business side of the industry.
That's the goal of the open house sessions, said Metalworks promotions director Julie Hoffmann.
"We want people to be able to tour the facility and see all that we offer. We are expanding and growing at an exponential rate," she said.
This fall, 200 students will begin studying at the school. Hoffmann said plans to expand Metalworks and increase enrollment are in the works.
jslack@mississauga.net
