FR: ASK THE PRO at the Contact Lounge of SONART – the Swiss Music Association

While panels are great for listening, learning, and gaining insights, this spot is all about you and your questions. At the Contact Lounge by SONART, located right at the entrance to Schiffbau, various experts are available to share their knowledge with you. Get 15 minutes of 1:1 advice tailored to your needs.

Friday, 2–3 PM: SOCIAL SECURITY with Etrit Hasler (Consultation in D/F/E)
How do I become self-employed, and is it even worth it as a cultural worker? Can I choose freely, or is this determined by my clients? How can I build a retirement plan as a cultural creator?
What happens if I’m unable to work for a longer period due to illness or accident? Switzerland’s social insurance system isn’t designed for the working conditions in the cultural sector, which is why navigating it requires a lot of know-how and effort. While Etrit Hasler from Suisseculture Sociale can’t do the work for you, he can definitely answer your questions and guide you in the right direction.

Friday, 3–4 PM: LEGAL & CONTRACTS with David Burger (Consultation in D/E)
The legal world can be a jungle where musicians can often get lost. Are you about to sign a licensing deal with a label and want to double-check the details? Is a management team interested in working with you, but you’re unsure if their offer is standard for the industry? Should you sign that publishing contract or not? Does the concert contract look overly complicated? Get concise and clear answers to your most pressing questions about contract law here.

Friday, 4–5 PM: CULTURAL FUNDING with Milena Krstić (Consultation in D/E)
What are the key funding bodies? How do you create a dossier and budget for submission? Which funding opportunities (city, canton, national, foundations, etc.) suit your project? Where can you find examples of dossiers and budgets to guide you? We’re here to help you build a sustainable career as a musician.

Take advantage of this opportunity to get personalized advice and practical tips from experts in the field!