Do I Have to Go to School to Be a Music Producer?

More than a love of music is required to be a successful producer.

The entertainment world has no shortage of stories about recording artists and music producers who have achieved fame and fortune despite their lack of formal schooling. Talent notwithstanding, reliance on luck, connections and being in the right place at the right time aren't always guarantees of success. Going to school may not open all the right doors, but lack of an education could keep some of them firmly shut.

Work Habits

Even if you're a self-taught musician, the discipline to practice, learn new techniques and hone your craft within an academic environment can give you a greater appreciation of the talents and styles of those whose songs and compositions you may one day produce. Your ability to interpret instructor assignments, meet deadlines under pressure and accept criticism has application to the working conditions you'll encounter as a music producer. Classes in accounting, business administration, communications, marketing, psychology and contract law are also beneficial in understanding the demands of music promotion, management and client relations.

Technology

Like any other career path, the music industry continues to redefine itself in keeping with advances in digital technology, global economies, consumer trends and new and improved products including musical instruments themselves. A university campus can provide access to knowledge, resources and training on state-of-the-art sound, recording and editing equipment that might otherwise be cost-prohibitive for the average person to purchase.

Networking

Attending school with kindred spirits who share your passion for music does more than encourage and support your dreams of being a producer. It also provides you with a network of peers with whom you could potentially have longstanding business relationships. Having worked with you on class projects or participated in campus gigs provides them with a built-in familiarity with your personality, work ethic and skills. This could help you land a job some day.

Credibility

Many entry-level positions at recording studios do not require a college degree. If you plan to move up the career ladder, however, be aware that some of your associates, performing artists and even investors may embrace the attitude that a formal degree is synonymous with the degree of seriousness you have toward your profession. The time and expense of your having attended college may elevate you in their minds. Conversely, a degree at any level won't impress someone who thinks you have an arrogant attitude, a bad reputation and a tin ear.

References

• "The S.M.A.R.T. Guide to Becoming a Successful Producer/Engineer"; Bill A. Gibson; 2006
• "100 Careers in the Music Business"; Tanja Crouch; 2008
• "Career Opportunities in the Music Industry" Shelly Field; 2009

Resources

• "This Business of Music: The Definitive Guide to the Music Industry"; M. William Krasilovsky, et al; 2003
• "All You Need to Know About the Music Business"; Donald S. Passman; 2009