Music Business Mastery – 6-Week Workshop

Gain essential knowledge of the music industry, including branding, royalties, contracts, and marketing strategies. This workshop equips aspiring artists and creatives with the tools to navigate the business side of music, build a sustainable career, and take control of their artistic journey.

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Description

Description:
This 6-week workshop introduces participants to the essential aspects of the music industry, including branding, royalties, contracts, and marketing strategies. Aimed at young people aged 13-25, the workshop combines practical knowledge with real-world application, leading to an Arts Award Discover or Explore qualification. By the end of the course, participants will have gained a deeper understanding of the business side of music and developed a solid foundation for pursuing careers as independent artists or industry professionals.


Week 1: Introduction to the Music Industry

  • Overview of the music industry structure, including roles of artists, managers, producers, and labels.
  • Introduction to key terms such as royalties, publishing, and distribution.
  • Outcome: Create a simple map of the music industry and identify career pathways. Participants will reflect on what they’ve learned about the industry in their Arts Award portfolio.

Week 2: Branding and Image

  • Learn the importance of building a personal brand as an artist, including visual identity, social media, and audience engagement.
  • Develop strategies for creating an online presence that resonates with fans.
  • Outcome: Create a brand concept for an artist, including logo design and social media strategy. Participants will document their creative process and reflect on their branding choices in their Arts Award portfolio.

Week 3: Music Marketing & Promotion

  • Introduction to music marketing, including strategies for promoting music through social media, streaming platforms, and traditional media.
  • Learn how to reach a target audience and engage listeners effectively.
  • Outcome: Develop a marketing plan for a music release or event. Participants will reflect on the marketing strategies they used in their Arts Award portfolio.

Week 4: Royalties and Revenue Streams

  • Learn about different ways artists earn money, including royalties, performance fees, and merchandise sales.
  • Introduction to platforms for tracking royalties and understanding publishing rights.
  • Outcome: Create a simple income model for an artist, outlining revenue streams. Participants will document their learning and thoughts in their Arts Award portfolio.

Week 5: Contracts and Legal Considerations

  • Introduction to contracts in the music industry, including recording contracts, publishing deals, and management agreements.
  • Learn about the legal rights and obligations of artists and the importance of protecting intellectual property.
  • Outcome: Write a basic contract or agreement for an artist, covering key terms and conditions. Participants will reflect on their legal knowledge in the Arts Award portfolio.

Week 6: Final Project & Presentation

  • Participants will combine the skills and knowledge gained throughout the workshop to create a business plan for a fictional or real artist.
  • One-on-one feedback from mentors to refine the project and ensure a professional outcome.
  • Outcome: Present the final business plan and strategy for an artist, demonstrating an understanding of branding, marketing, royalties, and legal considerations. This will be submitted for Arts Award moderation and reflected upon in the Arts Award portfolio.

Outcome:
By the end of this 6-week workshop, participants will have gained essential knowledge of the music industry, including branding, marketing, royalties, and legal aspects. They will also earn an Arts Award Discover or Explore qualification, recognising their understanding of the business side of music. The Arts Award portfolio will showcase their progress, including a final business plan and reflection, which will be submitted for Arts Award moderation.