A degree in music business combines business and musical abilities, making it the perfect option for students who love their craft but want to gain insight into how the industry functions. Plus, with this degree, you have access to different aspects of the industry such as management, finance and distribution.
This degree program stands apart from other business degrees by focusing on the music industry and its intricate details. It includes courses on business theory such as accounting, economics and marketing, along with courses that explore aspects of music like songwriting, aural comprehension, keyboard techniques and musical history.
The course is tailored to prepare you for the demands of working in a highly competitive, creative and dynamic environment. It provides an introduction to music industry management as well as teaching you essential skills like marketing, event planning and music technology.
With a music business degree, you can pursue various professions such as artist management, music supervisor, tour manager or event promoter. While it may be challenging to know where to begin when searching for employment in this industry, there are various routes you can take.
As an artist manager, your job is to bring together and promote an artist or group of artists by offering opportunities and connecting them with industry professionals. This includes helping them get on stage, setting up technical equipment, planning their tour schedule, developing connections with concert venues and event promoters, as well as finding the most profitable way for them to make money.
You could work in the marketing or promotion department of a record label, as a music supervisor or lawyer. In this position, you’ll manage music copyright and licensing as well as identify and secure new revenue streams for your client’s projects.
It’s an ideal option for those with limited musical talent, as there are no auditions required and you don’t need to be an instrumentalist or singer to pursue this career path. Additionally, those interested in pursuing a non-performing career but still wish to remain part of the music industry can find success here too.
Some music business programs offer internships, providing you with the chance to experience the work first-hand and hone your skills before beginning your job search. Furthermore, internships are an excellent opportunity to network and develop your professional profile.
In addition to an internship, you’ll take classes in business and music that focus on the industry. Topics covered may include accounting, sales, financial management, marketing strategies and legal considerations.
Some music business schools host student societies and events to connect students to industry professionals and gain invaluable experience. BIMM, for instance, runs a platform called ‘BIMM connect’ which enables them to contact alumni and faculty members directly and discuss music industry opportunities.
