weekend summary

The Bonnaroo-U 2024 weekend was packed with invaluable learning experiences and exciting festival moments. Students began their journey with a C3 Presents introduction from industry leaders Tim “Tuba” Smith and Ted Heinig, who shared their paths in the music industry and gave behind-the-scenes insights into organizing some of the largest music festivals in the world. Panels included a heartfelt session with the Well Dunn Foundation, where students learned about the organization’s mission to provide internship opportunities in the music industry, and an in-depth discussion with the team behind the rising band Michigander.

As the weekend progressed, students gained firsthand experience in festival logistics, artist relations, and media strategies. Highlights included the "Women in the Industry" panel featuring artists Abby Holliday, Anaïs Mitchell, and Larkin Poe, and a captivating talk from the legendary Gary Clark Jr., who shared his journey and creative process. The weekend wrapped up with a final session from C3’s Brad Parker and Shelby Goodsell, offering a comprehensive look at the complexities of festival management and the key lessons learned from Bonnaroo 2024.

By the end of the weekend, students walked away with real-world knowledge, industry connections, and a deeper appreciation for the work that goes into producing a world-class festival.