Introduction to Music Industry

Northeastern University

Semesters taught: Spring 2019, Spring 2018, Spring 2015

Course description

This course introduces students to a wide array of standard business practices, roles, and norms in the music industries, with a focus on U.S. markets. We address a variety of content areas and business sectors: artist relationships and management, entrepreneurship, intellectual property, international markets, the live music industry, music and other forms of media or entertainment (radio, TV, film, video games, advertising, etc.), and the recorded music industry. Students gain a broad understanding of the interrelationships between individuals and institutions within the music industries. We consider the roles of artists, composers, and producers; agents, attorneys, and managers; publishers, labels, and venues. Not only is this course a prerequisite for many music industry electives, but in its breadth it provides the foundational background necessary for success in your future coursework and professional experience in the music and entertainment industries.