Music Connection Recaps AIMP’s Global Music Publishing Summit
Inside AIMP 2026: Glen Ballard and U.S. Copyright Office Leaders Debate A.I., Ownership, and the Future of Music Publishing
Glen Ballard and Tom DeSavia
The future of music publishing is rarely discussed quietly, but at the 2026 AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit in New York City, it was especially loud—in the most intellectual, policy-heavy, and occasionally philosophical sense of the word.
Hosted by the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP), the June 9 gathering at Fordham University’s McNally Amphitheatre brought together a cross-section of the global publishing ecosystem: songwriters, attorneys, rights organizations, tech companies, sync executives, and creative leaders all circling the same set of urgent questions—what happens to music rights, ownership, and creativity in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and rapidly shifting technology?
AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit to Feature Special Fireside Chat with U.S. Copyright Office Leadership
Shira Perlmutter & Emily L. Chapuis to Join Special Conversation on Copyright, Technology & the Future of Music Publishing
June 9, 2026 | Fordham University at Lincoln Center | New York City
Photo caption (L-R): Shira Perlmutter & Emily L. Chapuis, U.S. Copyright Office
The Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP) has announced a special fireside chat featuring Shira Perlmutter, Register of Copyrights and Director of the U.S. Copyright Office, alongside Emily L. Chapuis, General Counsel and Associate Register of Copyrights, as part of the 2026 AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit taking place Tuesday, June 9 at the McNally Amphitheatre at Fordham University at Lincoln Center in New York City.
Moderated by Art Levy, VP Business & Legal Affairs at Songtradr and Secretary of the AIMP New York Chapter, the conversation comes at a pivotal moment for the music publishing and copyright industries, as rapid technological change continues to reshape the way rights are managed, protected, and monetized.
The session will offer attendees a rare opportunity to hear directly from leadership at the U.S. Copyright Office about the evolving legal and policy landscape surrounding music, technology, and copyright in the digital age.
Widely recognized as one of the leading voices in global copyright policy, Perlmutter has served as Register of Copyrights since 2020, advising Congress and executive branch agencies on copyright law while overseeing the administration of key provisions of the U.S. Copyright Act. Prior to her appointment, she held senior intellectual property and policy roles at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, IFPI, Time Warner, WIPO, and the U.S. Copyright Office itself.
Chapuis, who was appointed General Counsel and Associate Register of Copyrights in late 2025, oversees a wide range of regulatory, litigation, and policy matters for the Office. She has also played a leading role in the Office’s artificial intelligence initiative, including development of the Office’s multipart report on Copyright and Artificial Intelligence, while overseeing major litigation matters and the Copyright Claims Board.
Together, Perlmutter and Chapuis will offer insight into the Copyright Office’s ongoing work at a time of major change across the music, technology, and copyright sectors, while reflecting on the broader questions shaping the future of rights management.
The fireside chat adds to an already expansive day of programming at the 2026 AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit, which will also feature a keynote conversation with legendary songwriter and producer Glen Ballard, alongside panels exploring AI innovation, sync licensing, global publishing markets, legislation, and the evolving independent publishing ecosystem.
“We are so honored to have Shira Perlmutter and Emily Chapuis join us at the Summit. The questions facing independent publishers around copyright, technology, and creator rights have never been more urgent. These are important conversations our community needs to be a part of, and having leadership from the U.S. Copyright Office in the room with us is incredibly meaningful. We can’t wait to see where the discussion goes.”
— Melanie Santa Rosa, President of the AIMP New York Chapter
Event Details
What: 2026 AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit
Featured Session: A Fireside Chat with Shira Perlmutter & Emily L. Chapuis, U.S. Copyright Office
Moderator: Art Levy, VP Business & Legal Affairs, Songtradr; Secretary, AIMP New York Chapter
When: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 @ 11:00 AM
Where: McNally Amphitheatre at Fordham University at Lincoln Center
* Tickets include access to the June 8 kickoff mixer, breakfast, lunch, refreshments, a full day of programming and networking opportunities, and a one-year AIMP membership for new attendees.
Glen Ballard Announced as Headlining Keynote Speaker for the AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit
NEW YORK
Noted songwriter and producer Glen Ballard has been announced as the headlining keynote speaker for the AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit. Set for June 9 at the McNally Amphitheatre at Fordham University at Lincoln Center in New York City, the keynote will feature Ballard in an intimate, wide-ranging discussion with Concord’s Tom DeSavia, reflecting on a career that has shaped popular music for decades.
During the conversation, Ballard will share the stories behind his biggest hits while offering insights into the craft of songwriting and the evolving role of publishers in today’s music industry.
The keynote is a centerpiece of the AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit, which features a full day of panels and discussions addressing the most pressing issues in the publishing sector.
The 2026 programming includes sessions focused on the evolving legislative landscape, the state of independent publishing globally, and the growing influence of emerging international markets such as Latin America, MENA, Africa, and South Asia. Further details regarding additional speakers and programming will be released in the coming weeks.
To kick off the event, the AIMP New York Chapter’s Young Professionals Committee will host a mixer on Monday, June 8. This gathering offers the independent music publishing community a valuable opportunity to network with peers and colleagues ahead of the main summit.
“Every year the Summit brings together the people who are most invested in the future of music publishing. This year we have an extraordinary lineup, from an intimate conversation with Glen Ballard to panels on global power centers and the evolving policy landscape. I can’t think of a better place to be on June 9.”
Melanie Santa Rosa, AIMP NY Chapter President
Event Details
Date: June 9 Location: McNally Amphitheatre at Fordham University at Lincoln Center, New York City
📍 High Bar NYC 346 W 40th Street, New York, NY 10018 ⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Hosted by the AIMP NY Chapter’s YPC in partnership with Music Publishers Canada’s NXTGEN Sponsored by YouTube
Kick off Summit Week right. Reconnect with colleagues, meet new faces, and set the tone for an inspiring day ahead.
June 9, 2026
AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit
📍 McNally Amphitheatre at Fordham University, Lincoln Center 140 W 62nd St, New York, NY 10023 ⏰ 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
A full day of bold conversations on the issues, innovations, and opportunities shaping the future of music publishing. Built for the people who care most about where this industry is headed.
Meet Our Confirmed Speakers
The voices driving the conversation on policy, rights, global deal-making, independent innovation, and the future of music publishing.
Songwriter Keynote
We are honored to welcome legendary songwriter and producer Glen Ballard for our 2026 Songwriter Keynote, in conversation with Tom DeSavia of Concord. Glen’s extraordinary body of work spans decades and genres, and his perspective on songwriting, creativity, and the music business is not to be missed.
Songwriter Keynote: An Intimate Conversation with Glen Ballard
Moderated by Tom DeSavia, Concord Music Publishing Glen Ballard
Confirmed Panels
State of the Industry: Music Publishing, Legislation & What’s Coming Next Moderated by Michael Simon, HFA Chris Barkley, NMPA · Linda Bloss-Baum, SONA · Graham Davies, DIMA · Morna Willens, RIAA
Inside the Indie World Moderated by Amber Charania, YouTube Danny Abowd, The Royalty Network · Delphine Dalquie-Dickson, 22D Music Group · Heather Johnson, Sub Pop Records · Jennifer Newman-Sharpe, Exceleration Music
Global Power Centers: Publishing Beyond Borders Moderated by Adam Parness, Adam Parness Music Consulting Thando Makhunga, Downtown Music Publishing Africa · Spek, PopArabia · Jashima Wadehra, Ode Consulting
Full Agenda Coming Soon…
Register Now — Early Bird Pricing Extended Through May 9
Early bird pricing has been extended through May 9. Prices increase May 10.
Bonus for Non-Members: Register for the Summit and receive one year of AIMP National membership included with your ticket.
Your Ticket Includes:
– Access to the June 8 Kick-Off Mixer – Breakfast, lunch, and refreshments on June 9 – A full day of expert panels and industry insights
Sponsorship opportunities: Unlock additional visibility for your business and services by sponsoring the Summit. For details, contact Melanie Santa Rosa at melanie@aimp.org. Group rate inquiries: Contact nyadmin@aimp.org.
Hotel Discounts — Book Before May 9
We have secured group rates at two hotels near Fordham University’s Lincoln Center campus. Rates are available June 7-12, 2026. We strongly recommend booking before the May 9 deadline.
Please note: New York City is a 2026 FIFA World Cup host city with matches beginning June 13. Hotel availability and pricing across the city will be significantly higher than usual during this period.
KOSIGN · NMPA · YouTube · The Frederic Loewe Foundation · Mint Digital Services · Music Publishers Canada · SOCAN
Fordham University Lincoln Center • New York City
Experience the 2026 AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit
We’re excited to bring together independent music publishers and music professionals for a kickoff mixer and a full day of programming, connection, and community in New York City.
What is the Global Music Publishing Summit?
The Global Music Publishing Summit is the AIMP New York Chapter’s marquee annual event. In 2025, it brought together more than 330 music publishing professionals for a full day of panels, insight, and networking. The Summit covers the issues shaping the business right now, from legislation and rights frameworks to independent publishing, sync, global markets, and AI, with speakers drawn from across the creative, legal, business, and global publishing landscape.
Who Attends?
The Summit draws a highly engaged cross-section of the music publishing world, including:
Music Publishers and Administrators
They manage rights and royalties, ensuring legal compliance and proper compensation for creators.
Creative and Licensing Executives
Responsible for synchronization and media placements, seeking new opportunities and partnerships.
Performance Rights Organizations
Oversee public performance royalties and advocate for artist rights.
Entertainment Attorneys and Tech Partners
Bring legal expertise and innovative music technology solutions to the industry.
The 2026 Summit
Monday, June 8, 2026 — Kickoff Mixer
High Bar NYC | 346 W 40th St | 6:00–8:00 PM
Hosted by the AIMP NY Chapter’s Young Professionals Committee
Reconnect with colleagues, meet new faces, and set the tone for an inspiring day ahead.
Tuesday, June 9, 2026 — AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit
McNally Amphitheatre at Fordham University Lincoln Center
140 W 62nd St, New York, NY 10023 | 9:00 AM–5:30 PM
A full day of programming, thought leadership, and networking.
Register of Copyrights Shira Perlmutter to Appear at GMPS 2026
One of the most consequential conversations of the Summit will bring the U.S. Copyright Office directly into the room. Register of Copyrights Shira Perlmutter joins Emily L. Chapuis, General Counsel and Associate Register of Copyrights, for a rare fireside discussion on AI, copyright modernization, termination rights, streaming fraud, and the future of music publishing.
Fireside Chat: A Fireside Chat With the U.S. Copyright Office Time: 11:00 AM Location: McNally Amphitheatre
Featured Keynote
Glen Ballard Headlines GMPS 2026
Legendary songwriter and producer Glen Ballard joins the Summit for an intimate keynote conversation moderated by Tom DeSavia. From iconic songs to the craft of songwriting and the business of publishing, this featured session offers a rare chance to hear directly from one of music’s most influential creative voices.
Keynote: Songwriter Keynote: An Intimate Conversation with Glen Ballard Time: 4:45 PM Location: McNally Amphitheatre
What to Expect:
• Fireside Chat with the U.S. Copyright Office
• State of the Industry: Music Publishing, Legislation & What’s Next
• Inside the Indie World
• State of Sync: Ask Us Anything
• Global Power Centers: Publishing Beyond Borders
• AI for Good
• Songwriter Keynote with Glen Ballard
Meet Our Speakers
The voices shaping policy, deals, rights, and innovation in global music publishing.
Featured Speakers
Adam Parness
Adam Parness Music Consulting
Moderator
Ali Lieberman
Symphonic Distribution
Amanda Levine
Platinum Rye Entertainment
Amber Charania
YouTube
Moderator
Art Levy
Songtradr
Moderator
Benjamin Bailer
Bailer Music
Brooke Primont
Concord Music Publishing
Moderator
Chris Barkley
NMPA
Daniel Abowd
The Royalty Network
Delphine Dalquie-Dickson
22D Music Group
Edward Ginis
OpenPlay
Moderator
Elizabeth Moody
Granderson Des Rochers
Elizabeth Rodda
peermusic
Emily L. Chapuis
U.S. Copyright Office
Featured Speaker
Graham Davies
DIMA
Heather Johnson
Sub Pop
Jashima Wadehra
ODE Consulting
Jennifer Newman Sharpe
Exceleration Music
Kara Foley
PULSE Music Group
Larry Mills
Vobile
Linda Bloss-Baum
SONA
Melissa Somosky
Independent Music Consultant
Michael Simon
HFA
Moderator
Morna Willens
RIAA
Shira Perlmutter
U.S. Copyright Office
Featured Speaker
Spek
PopArabia
Thando Makhunga
Downtown Music Publishing Africa
Tom DeSavia
Concord
Moderator
Glen Ballard
Songwriter / Producer
Keynote
2026 Programming
This year’s Summit features a fireside chat with U.S. Copyright Office leadership, panels on the state of the industry, independent publishing, sync, global markets, and AI, and a songwriter keynote with legendary hitmaker Glen Ballard in conversation with Tom DeSavia of Concord.
• Access to the June 8 Kickoff Mixer
* Breakfast, lunch, and refreshments on June 9
* A full day of expert panels and industry insights
* One year of AIMP National membership for non-members
Thank You to Our Sponsors & Vendors
We’re grateful to the organizations whose support helps make the 2026 AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit possible.
National Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Bronze Sponsors
Vendors
New Spotlight Conversation Announced: “Rights & AI” with ICMP’s John Phelan
June 10th | Fordham College at Lincoln Center | NYC For information and ticketing, please visit the GMPS 2025 Event Page
Multi-platinum songwriter and producer Sam Hollander will deliver the Songwriter Keynote at the 2025 AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit, presented by the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP), on Tuesday, June 10th at Fordham College at Lincoln Center in New York City. With more than 22 U.S. Top 40 hits and collaborations spanning Panic! At The Disco, One Direction, Ringo Starr, Carole King, Def Leppard, and Weezer, Hollander brings a singular creative perspective to the role of the modern songwriter. His keynote will reflect on his prolific career and offer real-world insights on creative longevity, industry adaptation, and the evolving relationship between songwriters and publishers in a rapidly changing music economy.
In addition, AIMP has announced a new Spotlight Conversation: “Rights & AI: A Spotlight Conversation with John Phelan of ICMP.” Phelan, Director General of the International Confederation of Music Publishers (ICMP), will join AIMP National Chair Frank Handy for a wide-ranging discussion about the growing influence of AI on music rights. From creation and licensing to enforcement and regulation, the conversation will explore how publishers can navigate—and help shape—this next frontier. Following the interview, Phelan will present key takeaways from ICMP’s global work on AI and copyright.
The 2025 AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit will feature a full day of programming, including:
The Next Phase of Music Legislation — A must-watch panel on federal updates from leaders at the NMPA, RIAA, The Recording Academy, and NSAI, moderated by HFA’s Michael Simon.
IMPF Global Market View Report — Featuring IMPF representatives from Reservoir, ABKCO, and Music Publishers Canada, this session will explore trends in global publishing and the power of international partnerships.
SynchA&Ronicity — A behind-the-scenes look at how Sync and A&R departments collaborate for creative and commercial success.
The Indie Perspective — An open discussion among indie publishers from Third Side Music, Empire, Anthem, and Domino Publishing on adapting to the evolving business landscape.
The Music Industry’s Next Generation of Leaders — A spotlight on emerging executives driving change across publishing, licensing, and A&R.
The Summit will be preceded by a June 9th Kickoff Party hosted by AIMP NY’s Young Professionals Committee and sponsored by The Music Infrastructure Company and Tipalti. All tickets include admission to both events, as well as meals and a complimentary one-year AIMP membership for new attendees.
Event Details
What: 2025 AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit
When: June 9–10, 2025
Where: Fordham College at Lincoln Center , 140 W 62nd St, NYC
For more information on the Association of Independent Music Publishers (AIMP), please contact Jon Bleicher at Prospect PR [jon@prospectpr.com, 973.330.1711]
January 18, 2025
Be sure to mark June 10, 2025 on your calendars for this year’s AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit in New York City! Keep an eye on aimp.org for more details as they are announced.
AIMP Global Music Publishing Summit 2024 – Sold Out Success
24 June 2024
The 2024 Global Music Publishing Summit wrapped on June 11 at the 3 West Club in New York City, drawing in over 300 attendees, including songwriters, music publishers, rights organizations, record labels, DSPs, and more. It was sponsored by Copyright Delta, ICE, Music Publishers Canada, the NMPA, PRS for Music, RyteBox, and Switchchord, as well as AIMP National Annual Supporters including ASCAP, BMI, CMRRA, Exploration, The MLC, SESAC Music Group, SXWorks, and YouTube.
Officers and Directors from AIMP Chapters in NY, LA, ATL, and Nashville
Hi-res photos from every GMPS panel are available here. All photos should be credited to Gary Gershoff, except the AIMP Pre-GMPS Young Professionals Mixer photo, which should be credited to Ashley Morey. Video of the GMPS will soon be made available to AIMP members at aimp.org.
From left: Michael Lau, Ree Guyer, Frank Handy, Tony D. Alexander. Photo credit: Gary Gershoff
The event kicked off with a welcome from Michael Lau (AIMP National Chair and New York Chapter President; CEO, Laud Music/Imachew Music), Frank Handy (AIMP LA Chapter Vice President; Head of Operations & Administration, Position Music), Ree Guyer (AIMP Nashville Chapter President; President, Wrensong), and Tony D. Alexander (AIMP Atlanta Chapter President; President and Managing Director, Made in Memphis Entertainment), who each provided an update on the Association’s national and regional activities.
From left: Brooke Primont, Leah Streetman, Kate Urcioli, Jason Rezvan, Keith D’arcy, Anita Chinkes Ratner. Photo credit: Gary Gershoff
One of the day’s standout panels was “Publishers’ Perspective: Unveiling the Power of Covers in Synchronization.” Led by moderator Brooke Primont (AIMP NY Board Member; EVP, Publishing Sync, Concord Music Publishing), panelists Jason Rezvan (VP, Advertising, Spirit Music Group), Keith D’arcy (SVP, Sync & Creative Services, Warner Chappell), Leah Streetman (President and Head of Film & TV Music, Triton Creative), Anita Chinkes Ratner (EVP Creative Music Strategy, PARAMOUNT), and Kate Urcioli (Managing Director & Partner, Heavy Duty Projects) discussed the immediate emotional connection that comes with a cover song; the difference between re-records, remixes, and traditional covers; and how they work with companies and music supervisors to find or create the perfect cover version for their needs.
From left: Amber Charania, Clara Kim, Chris Barkley, Morna Willens. Photo credit: Gary Gershoff
On Tuesday afternoon, Chris Barkley (Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, NMPA), Clara Kim (Chief Legal and Business Affairs Officer, ASCAP), Morna Willens (Chief Policy Officer, RIAA), and moderator Amber Charania(AIMP NY Board Member; Senior Director of Legal and Business Affairs, Downtown Music Holdings) delivered the “Washington, D.C. Update.”Together, they discussed upcoming and proposed legislation affecting the music publishing community, including several proposals to establish a federal right of publicity in light of the rise of generative AI, the NMPA’s proposal to allow rights-holders to opt out of compulsory licensing, and more.
The night before the GMPS on June 10, the AIMP Young Professionals Committee hosted the free “AIMP Pre-GMPS Young Professionals Mixer” at The Rose in NYC. The event brought together the publishing industry for drinks, snacks, and networking.
