MMF Aotearoa Confirms Return of Artist Management Series

The Music Managers Forum Aotearoa (MMF) has today announced the return of Back to Basics.

Back to Basics is a free seminar series designed for those in the early stages of artist management — including self-managed artists — who are building the foundations of their music careers.

"Back to Basics explores the essentials of artist development, release planning, and the business of music, with practical insights and first-hand experiences from artists and managers working across Aotearoa," a press statement reads.

Guest speakers for this year's Back to Basics include Wellington musician MĀ; Minnie Roberds of Christchurch indie pop band There's a Tuesday; Coast Arcade's Bella Bavin; and Auckland-based manager Audrey Siataga, who has worked with Christoph El Truento, Ladi6, and Mokomokai.

MMF Chair and Mentor Cushla Ashton, who also manages soul star Louis Baker, will lead the sessions.

The press statement adds that this year's series is dedicated to the memory of Lorraine Barry, a long-time MMF advocate who passed away earlier this year. Barry, who led Back to Basics for many years before her passing, was deeply committed to helping emerging Kiwi artists and managers gain the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the music industry.

Back to Basics is supported by NZ On Air, Recorded Music New Zealand, APRA, and the New Zealand Music Commission.

Check out the confirmed sessions below. More sessions are set to be announced soon for Dunedin, Bay of Plenty, and Hawke's Bay in early 2026.

More information about Back to Basics can be found here.

Back to Basics 2025

Tuesday, October 28th (6pm-7:30pm) The Cinema, Block 10 Tokomaru, Massey University, Wellington Guest speaker - MĀ

Thursday, October 30th (6pm-7:30pm) The Chamber @ The Piano, Centre for Music & the Arts, Christchurch Guest speaker - Minnie Roberds (There's a Tuesday)

Wednesday, November 5th (6pm-7:30pm) Big Fan, Auckland Guest speakers - Bella Bavin (Coast Arcade), Audrey Siataga