SF's Noise Pop Festival This Week

San Francisco's 16th annual Noise Pop Festival happens this week and it includes lots of shows, films, art, merch, and an educational series. One of the things that I've enjoyed over the years are the educational panels at Noise Pop. They are typically a time to hang out with and get tips from musicians and others in the music business. In 2002 there was an epic set of panels about indie music featuring many of my music journalist heroes like Ann Powers. This year's Expo-Educational Session is March 1st and there will be panels and opportunities to chat with artists, college and commercial DJs, club bookers, and label folks.