Music biz conference MIDEM cancelled, virtual event coming

In news that will surprise nobody, MIDEM 2020 has been cancelled.

The four-day event was scheduled to run June 1-4 in Cannes, France, but organisers were left with no choice but to scrap this year’s edition due to continued concerns linked with the coronavirus.

MIDEM director Alexandre Deniot said its working behind the scenes to support the industry.

“The situation related to the coronavirus is changing daily, as are government announcements and restrictions,” he said. “These impact the way that we all lead our lives and conduct business.

“Given the uncertainty surrounding the virus and companies’ concerns for the safety of their people, it is not possible to hold Midem in June in Cannes.

“The Midem team is working hard to support the industry during this challenging time, especially artists and companies that have been hardest hit and when global music unity is more important than ever.”

One of the ways that MIDEM plans to keep its delegates informed is through a new Midem Digital Edition, with live-streamed keynote sessions, talks and presentations and opportunities for online conversations.

In a statement on the MIDEM website, organisers asked punters to “stay tuned” for further details about its upcoming Digital Edition.