One of the highlights of the Irish music calendar, the event has been shifted in consultation with key figures in the music industry. "The reaction to the new slot has been universally positive," Music Show director Mark Hogan said. "Everyone is completely focussed right now on getting through the Christmas. In the new year there will be lots of interesting things in the instrument and equipment arena for musicians to try, and a feeling of freshness and vitality in the air.

"Coming more than a month after NAMM in LA, it's a great platform for the industry in Europe, and in Ireland especially, to get the word out about what's hot, and about both the hardware and the software that musicians will be using over the next 24 months.

"There is, across the board, agreement that it is a far better time for an event that can now set the agenda for 2012. We're really looking forward to it."

Plans for the panels and debates at the show are developing quickly, with a number of new themes emerging.

"The whole area of copyright is crucial at the moment," Hogan added, "and so that will be a key issue. But we are also looking at new revenue models and how they will operate – with Malcolm Dunbar of Pledge and Topspin founder Shamal Ranasinghe among those who will be speaking.

"There is another vital issue, which so many of the people we have been talking to have emphasised – and that is the potential that music has to contribute to positive change, across a whole spectrum of areas. This has probably become even more important in the context of the world recession, and so The Music Show will be focussing on 'Activism in Music', and the different ways in which music can engage with and empower people."

Meanwhile, the Red Bull Bedroom Jam has been added as a feature of the February show, giving young bands and musicians yet another unique and fun attraction to look forward to. For more on the Red Bull Bedroom Jam, watch this space!

The Music Show takes place at the RDS, Dublin on February 25 and 26. It is presented by Hot Press in association with RTÉ 2fm.