See also "WMC is back with Ultra but still needs a makeover" and "WMC and Ultra's complicated breakup."
We'll admit, we've let Winter Music Conference's organizers have it the last few years. But it's not because we are choosing sides. We really hope they wake up and realize they need to start attracting the next generation of EDM DJs, musicians, producers, and promoters.
And while WMC's 2012 edition once again realigned with Ultra Music Festival's dates, we hardly heard any buzz coming from the Beachplex. Here's hoping that the 2013 edition is different.
Earlier today, the WMC 2013 dates were announced. And the conference will be taking place March 15 to 24, which means that organizers have stuck with last year's ten-day format. It will also return to its 2011 location at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
Oh, and don't worry, Ultra is scheduled for March 22 to 24 too.
The press release makes WMC 2013 sound promising -- and seems to address some of our criticism.
"WMC will be expanding its music trade show and exhibit area to include a leading-edge cultural exchange and consumer expo centered on EDM trends, music, gear and fashion."
Of course, it will come down to execution. We are still holding out on panels and attendance figures. But Margo Possenti, WMC's managing director, says in the release, "Over 2,300 artists and DJs performed at 134 venues in Miami Beach and Miami last year - an increase of over 64% in artist participation from the previous year."
Naturally, when you compare 2012's figure to the one before (the year Ultra and WMC couldn't see eye to eye), you are going to see a boost in attendance.
We'd love to discuss all the issues and concerns we have with WMC's organizers, but year after year our emails either get no response or we are asked to submit our questions before any interviews can be given. (Uh, no.)
Anyway, that's neither here nor there. If you want to attend the conference, registration is open and badges are available for $235, which is a bargain considering attendees get access to some of the biggest WMC and proxy parties for free (or at a discount) throughout the week.
For more information or to purchase a badge, visit wintermusicconference.com.
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