To many people, the business of music is limited to the sale of recorded music and the subscription fees paid to streaming platforms like Spotify & Pandora. In reality, the industry has evolved to incorporate much, much more: live performances and events, including Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour; license fees from including music in TV shows, movies and video games; brand partnerships, inclusion in social media platforms like Tik Tok; and unique digital experiences such as Travis Scott’s Fortnite concert, the Hottieverse (Megan Thee Stallion’s VR experience via AmazeVR) etc.. Each of these lines of business connect fans to the music they love – and each has its own unique set of business principles, technology platforms, and job functions.

The Summer Discovery Business of Music Academy gives high school students a foundational overview of how the music business has been transformed by decades of technological and business innovation. During the two-week academy, students will explore the business principles that drive the music industry, learn about the economics of touring, and study the business processes and technologies that are central to developing and distributing music, engaging with fans, promotion and marketing, and generating revenue. Students will have the opportunity to examine these topics firsthand through reading, case studies, industry speakers, and hands-on projects. They will also go on a site visit that will provide a behind the scenes perspective on an aspect of the industry.

Note: course description subject to change.