NASHVILLE – More than doubling the registration total from its first year in 2011, the 2014 Touring Career Workshop (TCW), held in Nashville Nov. 24, was the busiest to date. In addition to a successful turnout for the event, led by LD/programmers Erik Parker and Chris Lisle (pictured here, L-R), TCW 2014 collected significant donations for their charitable partner, the Oasis Center, and presented the “Sammy Old Skool” Award, in memory of production professional Sam Harden.
More details from TCW (www.touringcareerworkshop.com):
Some of the industry’s most prominent touring professionals were in attendance such as keynote speaker Donnie Lewis, tour manager to Grammy award-winning rock legend Peter Frampton. He spoke to the importance of planning for longevity in the touring business. Following the main-stage speaker were breakout sessions including panels from industry veterans such as Pete Healey, production manager for the 2014 CMA Entertainer of the Year, Luke Bryan. Healey, who has been working with Bryan since 2006, focused on the importance of onsite safety, encouraging professionals young and old to always be aware of their surroundings. Other sessions included “Not Just a Man’s World,” led by panelists Jenny Neace, Chelsea Gill and Jennifer Moore.
During the evening, the first “Sammy Old Skool” Award, given in memory of production professional Sam Harden, was presented to his wife Ronei and daughter Savannah. The award recognizes those professionals who aim to give back by teaching and encouraging the newer generation of touring professionals. Sam Harden, who was a longtime member of the Bandit Lites family, served as a real mentor to the touring community and worked as a lighting director for a variety of acts including Toby Keith and Lord of the Dance.
The founders of Touring Career Workshop, Chris Lisle and Erik Parker, brought the night’s educational portion to a close with inspiring words about contributing to the fan experience and ways to continue bringing the touring community together. “We want people to leave thinking. Thinking about how to better their lives at home, their job and the impact that live events have on the fan experience,” according to Parker. The after-party, sponsored by Chris Lisle Lighting Design, LLC., hosted the evening’s attendees. Professionals and students from local universities and industry programs such as Middle Tennessee State University, Belmont University and the Blackbird Academy were represented as well as members of local industry organizations SOLID, YEP and WMBA.
This year’s event also marked TCW’s inaugural year for the mentorship program, which provides aspiring touring professionals the chance to connect with seasoned veterans in their specified area of interest. Applications for the program are currently being accepted with the sign-up date ending December 5, 2014. TCW is also encouraging roadies of all levels to sign up for the ALL ACCESS program, created to provide two no-cost life coaching support sessions, and gig board, a job board for employers and prospective employees.
