Klara Zupancic is a Slovenian music editor at a public radio called Val 202. She is 30 years old and has a very interesting career that she developed thanks to her passion for music. She started as a concet promoter in her hometown, Kočevje, and then moved to the bigger Ljubljana to pursue her dream job.
Hi Klara! Could you tell us what is your occupation and how long have you been doing it?
Hello there! I'm Klara, and music has been a central part of my life for as long as I can remember. I've been immersed in this field since I was about 18 years old. Actually, my journey began as a concert promoter in my hometown of Kočevje and, from there, I ventured into organizing shows in Ljubljana. In 2015 I became part of the Punk Rock Holiday festival team, and shortly after, I transitioned into my current role as a music editor at the the Slovenian Public Radio Val 202. I absolutely adore my work, it involves curating playlists, writing reviews, and hosting radio shows that cover a wide range of musical topics, including the music industry itself. While I still occasionally organize shows and contribute to events like Punk Rock Holiday, my primary occupation now revolves around radio broadcasting.
What does a day in your job life look like?
I make it a point to rise early each day to dive into new music. Mornings are when I feel the most creatively charged, so I tackle the toughest tasks first. Typically, I spend my workdays in the office where I'm fortunate to collaborate with my fantastic colleagues, sharing ideas and swapping music recommendations. On average, I curate about one playlist per day and host two radio shows per week. My typical workday spans around 8 hours, unless we have a special in-house concert to produce which occurs once a month.
Were you already a fan of music before working in the music industry or did you start to like music because of your job?
I landed this job because my passion for music knows no bounds! Music has been ingrained in my life for as long as I can recall. As a child, my favorite song was Twist and Shout and I practically wore out the record by playing it repeatedly. Growing up in a household of musicians (my parents and my brother) I naturally gravitated towards music. I even attended a music school where I learned to play the violin and flute. While my early interests revolved around playing instruments, my focus shifted to the sheer joy of listening. Music has been, and continues to be, an ever-present force, shaping and enriching my life every single day.
When did you realize that you could actually work with music?
As I mentioned earlier, my passion for music ignited long before I fully understood myself but transitioning that passion into a career was a challenge. In the initial years, I volunteered extensively, harboring doubts about the feasibility of making a livelihood from music. While I managed to earn some income through various projects during my student years, it wasn't enough to sustain myself after graduation. Fortunately, the tide eventually turned and I secured a full-time position at the radio. This was a pivotal shift that solidified my path in the music industry.
What did you study at university and what pushed you to choose this career path?
That's quite an amusing anecdote. Initially, I genuinely believed that music would remain merely a hobby. Despite pursuing a master's degree in the history of art and literature, seemingly unrelated to music, there were surprising parallels and inspirations to be found. The study of art has a way of sparking creativity in diverse forms. However, my passion for the music community and the intriguing dynamics of the industry ultimately led me to pursue a career in music business. Admittedly, while the work culture can be incredibly rewarding, I hae to say that, occasionally, it has toxic aspects.
Can you describe the Slovenian music industry?
In strict terms, the Slovenian music industry may not be as robust as those in larger countries. Our size poses challenges in establishing a big commercial music market. However, there are indeed a few talented individuals who manage to sustain themselves solely through music. While our scene may be relatively modest, it exudes strength and resilience. Some bands have the capacity to fill our largest arena annually, while others consistently sell out smaller venues. Additionally, many artists are diligently crafting their art on their own terms, though achieving mainstream recognition might be elusive. I'm pleased to observe that our music scene is experiencing a renaissance, with younger bands seizing stages both at home and abroad. For instance, Joker Out, who represented Slovenia at Eurovision last year, are currently embarking on a highly successful European tour, showcasing the vibrancy and potential of Slovenian music on an international stage.
Can you tell us a particular project you worked on that you are proud of?
Last year, I completed a highly demanding four-part podcast series centered around hip-hop. I was truly proud of it. Yet, my satisfaction extends beyond that project. I consistently find joy in producing live music shows here on Radio Slovenia, as well as orchestrating large-scale concerts to commemorate various anniversaries. For two consecutive years, we've managed to sell out one of Slovenia's most picturesque venues, Križanke, showcasing the incredible talent of Slovenian artists. It's immensely gratifying to witness the enthusiasm and support for these events.
Have you ever noticed any treatment difference between women and men?
Yes, I believe most women have experienced similar challenges. Initially, I encountered disrespect from some men, with meetings often turning out to be hidden attempts at dating. Fortunately, within the punk rock community, I found a more supportive environment that encouraged me to persevere. While such incidents occur less frequently now, I confront them directly and refuse to tolerate mistreatment towards myself or other women. Sadly, gender disparities persist in the music industry and many talented women are deterred by toxic masculinity. However, I remain optimistic, progress is evident, and I'm hopeful for continued improvement.
Who are your favorite artists who left a mark on you?
Answering this question feels nearly impossible! However, if I had to choose, I'd say Pixies, Boygenius, LCD Soundsystem, and Descendents. Their music resonates with me on a deep emotional level, stirring feelings that can only be evoked through music. In particular, Pixies have left an indelible mark on my understanding of myself and the world around me.
Do you think that being from Slovenia influences or has influenced your career?
It certainly does. Slovenia is a small country where everyone seems to know each other which has its set of advantages and disadvantages. With just two million Slovenian speakers it can sometimes feel challenging to envision international career opportunities. However, I firmly believe that one's origins shouldn't limit their potential. Last year, I spent three months in New York delving into their music industry. While the experience was enriching due to its vibrant and diverse nature, I also appreciated Slovenia for its unique opportunities. Here, one can thrive in the music business with greater independence, free from the influence of larger, profit-driven entities.
What are your future projects?
I'm passionate about delving deeper into music rights and streaming services, aiming to demystify them for Slovenians. Alongside this, I'm committed to continuing my involvement in live music productions and music editing. In fact, this August, we're gearing up to produce another Punk Rock Holiday festival. Additionally, with numerous exciting concerts happening across Europe this summer, I'm determined to attend as many as possible to soak in that vibrant music scene.
Do you have any suggestions for all those wanting to do your same job and join the industry?
Explore a myriad of career paths to uncover your true passion. By engaging in differentjobs, attending music shows and lectures and networking with individuals in the field, you'll gain valuable insights and opportunities. Consider volunteering at prospective workplaces, albeit briefly, to gain firsthand experience. This multifaceted approach will help you discern your aspirations and pave the way for fulfilling endeavors in the years ahead.
Do you have a song by a singer from Slovenia that you’d like to suggest to our readers?
I have a couple Grow Old by AKA Neomi, Hey Julie by Astrid and Zaljubila by MRFY.
Follow Klara here