The Score Magazine - Archive July 2016 issue! | Page 37

both segments advantaged exhibitors tremendously in organized flow of visitors to their interest segments. Functionally and productively PALM 2016 established a new paradigm. Industry growth in India both in volumes and values as well as in size effectually presented the largest display this year of product, technology, brand and trade. PLAM 2016 invested considerably in delivering very high level of leadership talent on the conference, soundscape and live arena stages. We are creating new avenues for engaging the industry and contributing to the development of the pro audio and lighting industry in India,” say Anil Chopra, International Director, PALM Expo. Mr. Chetwani added “The show scored on many other fronts, like the crucially designed defined exhibit areas between the two halls, the entry fee that had a benefited effect on the visitor profile, our strict enforcement of ‘NO-Sound Contract’ signed with the exhibitors finally paid off in controlling the sound on the floor and many other initiatives. The show features and other allied events drew a lot of attraction and accolades from the trade professionals who walked the exhibition. Our motto of ‘Delivering Business’ remains strongly focused. We are happy that the industry has supported us well, and we see growing together to achieve higher laurels as we move together.” Over in Hall 2B & 2C, Yamaha Music India Pvt. Ltd. once again booked its own independent space spread across 1150sqm, to display their collection of products & solutions. A major draw for rental companies and event management companies was the Open Air Line Array demos, conducted in the open space on Ground IV, near the visitor parking area. 12 brands exhibited their line arrays, attracting thousands of visitors over the three days of the show. The HARMAN Live Arena, was back again for the seventh consecutive year with a line-up of some of the best bands and musicians like Shivamani and Louiz Banks, Niladri Kumar, Ranjit Barot, Mihir Joshi, Blackstratblues, Ananthaal - Clinton Cerejo, Rakesh Chaurasia and Friends (RAF) and Gypsy Sound Revolution, to name just a few. The acoustically treated Demo Qubes near Hall 4 gave Hi-Tech Audio Systems Pvt. Ltd. and Pope Professionals an opportunity to showcase their sound systems without any restrictions, as opposed to Hall 1 which was earmarked as a no-sound hall this year. Gateway to Business Intelligence On the show floors itself the expo offered an array of sideshow events. The highlight was the educational PALM Conference & Seminar Programme, held at the International Lounge in the Hall 1 Mezzanine. The PALM Conference & Seminar Programme showcased 30 top speakers / presenters, communicating knowledge on product solutions, technological developments and safety and security issues in the event industry. The sessions offered an ideal networking environment and provided for an interactive exchange of ideas and information. The three day program witnessed several full-house sessions. The PALM Soundscape which took place in Hall 4, had 50 entertainment events, pro-audio and music industry stalwarts share their experiences and expertise through interactive sessions and panel discussions curated by artist management agency - UnMute. On the first two days, the Soundscape was followed by the 6th consecutive DJ Championship spearheaded by DJ Championship Director DJ Reji. Companies like Sun Infonet and Modern Stage Services too conducted informational workshops on the expo floor. 3D mapping has evolved into a driving force for sales. Modern Stage Services presented an immersive 3D Projection & Mapping showcase in Hall 1 which involved 3D mapping on a 3D object in full 3D Stereoscopic. Honouring and Spotlighting Excellence and Achievements As in the past, this year’s PALM expo was also the venue for the renowned PALM Sound & Light awards and IRAA awards. The Global Audio Industry Leader of the Year award at the PALM Sound & Light awards went to Mr. Uli Behringer, CEO & Founder of MUSIC Group, in recognition of his visionary leadership in creating and strengthening the International MUSIC GROUP. The Indian Pro Audio Industry Development leader award was bestowed on Vardhaman MegaTech. These awards for professional excellence in stage sound and light were manifested in 21 categories. In its 10th consecutive year, the IRAA awards continued to applaud the best in the Indian music recording industry and winners across 21 categories were felicitated at the awards ceremony. The IRAA Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed on veteran Sound Engineer, Satish Gupta for making a significant contribution to the Indian music recording industry. “PALM 2017 will witness further ingenuity in defining industry segments and opportunity for growth. The joie de vivre of PALM motivates the global industry each year to be part of the magic aisles in the entertainment city of India,” said Mr. Anil Chopra. The next edition of PALM expo, Mumbai will be held from 01-03 June, 2017. The Score Magazine www.thescoremagazine.com 35