3 Things I Learned in Music Business School

What are students in music business degree programs really learning in the classroom? Here, music business student Ann Brophy shares what she is picking up in the classroom and how it is shaping her future career goals. Do you agree with her lessons?

1. How to Write a Press Release

For bands, especially new ones, getting the word out about their first album or up-coming show is crucial. Press releases are directed to the news media to announce things like new releases and shows that are going to be coming to a particular city; they are a form of promotion. Press releases should not be any longer than a page in length in order to ensure that whomever receives the press release will actually read it. If a new band is putting out their first album, a press release should include background info, who is in the band, their inspirations, name of the album, and a way to contact their manager for more information or booking purposes. When writing a press release for an up-coming show you must include background info of the artist, some of their work, venue, time, date, and contact information for any additional questions. Press releases are a good way to get the word out for shows and albums because everyone is in some way connected to the media.More »

2. Promotion is Everything

Whether it’s a band, a show, or even a record label, promotion is key to success. Promoting is hard work and not for the lazy especially for an up-coming show. Once a band has a show booked, they cannot expect people just to show up; the show must be promoted to draw a crowd. There are many ways to promote: sending out press releases, hanging posters, passing out flyers, and selling merchandise, just to name a few. Just like press releases, the main goal of promoting is getting the word out and this takes dedication and hard work. One must be willing to spend time promoting because one day of handing out flyers is not going to get the job done.More »

3. Internships are Essential

The music industry is infamous for breaking hearts. It is hard to get a job in the music world. Internships are a way to get your foot in the door. Once you secure your internship, it is your time to shine. Show the company you are working for what you know, what you can do, that you are a hard worker, and even offer suggestions. An internship is how you are going to get a job in the music industry. Have success in your internship and you are guaranteed to have an advantage when applying for a job over the other people who either did not have an internship or did not do a good job. If you impress the company you work for they will talk about to others in the industry. Through your internship you will meet so many people whom are important in the industry and are usually willing to offer you help in the future. Meeting people brings me to the next point…More »

4. The Importance of Connections

The music industry is all about whom you know. Networking and maintaining connections is important for success in the industry and helps with getting jobs and internships. When you meet people who work in the industry or used to, be sure to remember their name and even exchange emails, because it is almost guaranteed that they know someone who is friends with someone else that works at the record company where you are trying to get a job. When you have an internship make sure to talk to anyone and everyone you can to make connections. You must be friendly and assertive. Do not be afraid to ask questions about the business and make sure you express your interest in the industry.

It is also a good idea to show off what you know, but do not be conceited. If people see you are working hard to make connections and meet people they will be glad to help you in your journey into the music industry because the industry needs people who are dedicated and will not waste anyone’s time.More »