Music Business

Explore a career in Recording, Artist Management, Venue Management, & Promotions.

The music business industry focuses on the for-profit, popular music field – supporting live concerts/event and recorded materials. Subsections of this industry include studio recording, artist management, venue and concert production, and promotions and label management. A wide understanding and enjoyment of all music is important, but depth and passion for a particular genre can be helpful in targeting specific artists, labels, or venues.

Employment Opportunities

There are many different routes one can take to get involved in the music industry depending on personal interests, preferred work patterns, and geographical location. For example, opportunities exist in music publishing, live music production, stage and tech set-up, audio production and engineering, film and video game composition, streaming and radio, copyright and legal work, and many more. NYC, Los Angeles, Nashville, and London are the main cities for music-related careers and companies.

Networking is the number-one key to achieving success in the music industry. Getting involved on campus with music organizations, concert and event productions, and broadcasting can be a great starting point before venturing out onto the local and national music scene.

• Successful candidates have:
  • Understanding of the music industry from the artist, business, and venue perspectives
  • Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills for managing clients and contracts
  • Budget management skills
  • Ability to work well under pressure
  • Promotion and publicizing skills
  • Good communication and marketing skills in order to manage artists and engage with the public
  • Strong organizational, logistical, communication, and social media skills, as well as knowing computers and software
• Hiring cycle:
  • Internship Cycle – Networking driven, hiring in February through May for the summer semester
  • Job Cycle – Networking driven, hiring March through summer as well as variable openings throughout the year