Music Management & Production
According to Berkleemusic.com, music management and production is a career field based on supporting musical artists in a variety of ways. This involves promoting live musical events, marketing artists to specific demographics, legal issues with music publishing and record labels, tour logistics, and live and recorded sound. While some obtain a degree specifically in music production and management, others involved in the field simply have business and music experience.
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Education
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While originally the field of music management and production was filled with businessmen and record label workers, according to education-portal.com, many colleges now offer college programs for it. Some degree programs are part of the music departments of colleges, while others are part of the business school. These programs focus on preparing students for real-world music business situations, usually through a combination of coursework and internship.
Recorded Music
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In regards to recorded music, those involved in this field have a variety of roles. Music management and production may involve merely advising artists on decisions made in the recording studios, as well as assisting in the writing and arranging processes of composition. Producers may also have a literal hand in the recording and engineering of an album. Once an album is done, managers and producers aim to expose the greatest amount of potential customers to the music through marketing strategies and advertising.
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Live Music
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For live music events, managers and producers have a hand in logistical concerns, such as scheduling of bands, moving musical gear, accommodations for artists, and equipping the venue with requisite supplies and equipment. Other things within a manager or producer's concern is live sound engineering, making sure the mix of the instruments and PA system creates a pleasant experience for the audience. Such events also must be publicized and promoted by managers and producers in order to capitalize on potential profits.
Artist Management
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Managers and producers often work with specific artists, regardless of whether it is in a recording studio or live venue. This type of work involves creating buzz for an artist or band, as well as determining the demographic that would best consume a type of music and which magazines, newspapers, e-zines and websites would be appropriate to advertise or get reviews in.
Misconceptions
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Music management and production often involves teams of workers focusing on specific tasks. Many unfamiliar with the field of music management and production do not know that artists and bands hire entire firms of workers to handle all their needs, instead of a single band manager or publicist.
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References
- Photo Credit Live music image by Warren Millar from Fotolia.com