Here we have answers to frequently asked questions about the SXSW Music and Media Conference. To reveal an answer, simply click on a question that you may have.

1. What is the SXSW Music and Media Conference?

The SXSW Music and Media Conference showcases hundreds of musical acts from around the globe on over eighty stages in downtown Austin. By day, conference registrants do business in the SXSW Trade Show at the Austin Convention Center and partake in a full agenda of informative, provocative panel discussions featuring hundreds of speakers of international stature.

2. How can I find out more about the different types of programming offered at the SXSW Music and Media Conference?

Visit the Talks section of the website to see brief descriptions of the different types of sessions offered at the SXSW Music and Media Conference.To see video excerpts from past panel sessions and artist showcases visit the SXSW YouTube Channel.

3. What are the dates for the 2012 SXSW Music and Media Conference?

The 2012 SXSW Music and Media Conference will take place Tuesday, March 13 through Sunday, March 18. Check back with the website throughout the year for information about other important dates. You can also subscribe to the SXSW Music monthly e-mail newsletter to keep up to date on all the latest news and important deadlines.

4. When can I register to attend the 2012 SXSW Music and Media Conference?

Online registration for the 2012 SXSW Music and Media Conference will begin on Monday, August 1, 2011. Registering early is the best way to ensure the widest choice of accommodations in Austin during the event.

5. Where does the SXSW Music and Media Conference occur?

Daytime panel programming, the SXSW Trade Show and the Day Stage showcases take place at the Austin Convention Center located at 500 E. Cesar Chavez. SXSW Music Festival showcases occur at over 80 venues throughout downtown Austin.

6. Who attends this event?

SXSW Music appeals to people from every aspect of the music industry. Labels, agents, managers, manufacturers, publishers, writers, bloggers, media giants and fans all meet for five days in Austin to celebrate music and make deals. Thousands of people from all over the world make business and personal connections that will last a lifetime.

7. What kinds of topics are covered at the event?

Panel topics cover everything from touring to releasing your own music to practically every aspect of the music business. The goal is to educate, inform and help bring together the people who will form the future of the music business. Check the 2012 Talks Page soon for a list of specific titles featured at the event. Discovering new ideas that lead us to a better future is the underlying theme of all of this programming. For a sampling of past speakers, click here.

8. How long has this event been going on?

The The SXSW Music and Media Conference debuted in Austin in March 1987. You can read about SXSW's history here.

9. How is SXSW Music different than other music conferences and festivals?

The large number of interviews, discussions, presentations and special events that make up the conference in addition to the sheer volume of musical performances alone sets SXSW worlds apart from other conferences and festivals. In 2011, 2,098 bands performed on 92 stages over the course of six nights. In addition, SXSW attracts participants from all around the world, making it truly one of the biggest global music market places in the world. Deals get done while parties are had and showcases bring together some of the most dynamic musical talent the world has to offer from big name acts to smaller newcomers while business representatives from all over the globe trade ideas on the Trade Show floor.

10. I think my company might want to host a party. How do I do this?

Contact our partner, High Beam Events. They can help you find the perfect venue and scenario from start to finish.

11. What is SXSWeek?

Running Friday, March 9 through Sunday, March 18, 2012, SXSWeek is the nine-day stretch that encompasses the SXSW Interactive Festival, SXSW Film Conference and Festival and SXSW Music and Media Conference.

12. As a SXSW Music registrant, am I able to attend SXSW Film and SXSW Interactive events?

The SXSW Music Conference & Festival badge covers admission to all events affiliated with SXSW Music. If you want to attend SXSW Interactive, SXSW Film and SXSW Music, then you should purchase a Platinum Badge. If you have already purchased a SXSW Music Badge and you wish to upgrade to Gold or Platinum, contact the registration department for pricing details.

13. Who should I contact about my great idea for a panel at SXSW Music?

Proposals for the 2012 event were accepted via the PanelPicker Interface June 2011 through July 2011. Stay updated on all SXSW Music news, including important deadlines, by subscribing to the monthly SXSW e-mail newsletter. Questions about conference programming? Contact us.

14. How can I market my product or service at SXSW Music and Media Conference?

Getting your product or service in front of the cutting-edge crowd of industry professionals that attend SXSW Music is a great way to build buzz. We offer all sorts of opportunities for this -- from a booth at the Trade Show to advertising in the Program Book to hosting a party or reception. For information on all the available marketing opportunities, please contact Luann Williams.

15. What are SXSW's accommodations for the disabled?

You can find information on all of SXSW's accommodations for the disabled here.

16. Help, I am still confused about SXSW Music. Can you give me more info?

E-mail us with all your questions and we will provide quick answers.

17. Wow, I've got a great idea on how to make SXSW Music better. What do I do?

E-mail us with all your ideas and brainstorms. We're all ears!