In this workshop, we will discuss the key information to have in any press release; whether you’re promoting a new album or tour, launching a new business, or opening an art exhibit, there are a handful of things every release should include.

Topics will include different styles of press releases, as well as how to reach out to media outlets, who to reach out to, and how to find their contact information.

Participants will be able to work on their own press release in small groups in a hands-on environment, and are encouraged to come prepared with questions and/or media release drafts to work through with the mentors in order to leave fully equipped and informed.

Instructor: Erin Lebar

Erin Lebar is a culture and music writer at the Winnipeg Free Press, where she spends her time interviewing musicians, reviewing shows, writing lifestyle stories and co-hosting a weekly pop-culture podcast, Bury the Lede. Erin has her Master’s degree in journalism from New York University with a focus on entertainment writing, so she can help with any media related questions or problems, such as how to figure out the best angle for potential news stories, how to get that down on paper in a press release worth reading, and how to get that press release into the hands of the right media outlets.

Guest Instructor: Olivia Michalczuk

Discovering the local music scene just months prior, Olivia started writing volunteer pieces for local music magazines in 2015, at age 21. Using those articles as sample pieces, she acquired a position at the Manitoban. Olivia worked two years as an arts and culture reporter and one as an arts and culture editor before cofounding Paper Cut Winnipeg with Jared Gauthier. Paper Cut partners with local publications to report on current events and also releases a weekly podcast featuring local creators – musicians, visual artists, graphic designers, photographers, etc. Olivia is passionate about the Winnipeg music scene and supporting local artists with their representation in media.