A minor in music business is a program available to any undergraduate in the school. This minor is a great option for those interested in music business, but whose primary course of study is in another area. Though many music business minors have a major that is, in some way, music-related, you do not need to already be part of the Frost School to complete the minor.
What Can I Do with a Minor in Music Business?
Business knowledge can be helpful in every career, and many of the business skills you’ll learn in music business classes can apply to any area of life. That being said, music business classes are most helpful to those who want to pursue some kind of music-related career. You may be an independently-employed musician, an entertainment lawyer, an educator, or something else entirely. A music business minor can aid your journey in any of these professions, and more.
How Many Classes Does a Minor in Music Business Require?
When you begin the minor, you will start with an overview of music business. This is a foundational course that all students are required to take, and it will present you with the fundamentals of the field. You will also be required to complete a music copyright course. This class gives you essential skills related to business and legal aspects of music. After you complete these first two courses, two course requirements will remain. These classes may include music business agreements, recorded music operations, and advanced topics in music business.
Who Teaches Classes for the Minor in Music Business?
The music business faculty teach classes for the music business minor. Music business faculty at the Frost School of Music at the University of Miami include Serona Elton, John D. Redmond, Reynaldo Sanchez, and Gary Alan Wood. Contacting the department directly may be a good idea if you are interested in a minor in music business and want to see if the program is right for you. Most departments have a range of resources available to prospective students; a representative may even be willing to let you sit in on a class or meet with them individually.
If I Pursue a Minor in Music Business, Will I Still Graduate On Time?
It is unlikely that a music business minor will not allow you to graduate on-time. That being said, it’s important to start your class planning early on in your degree so that you can prevent any confusion about course scheduling. Not every class is offered every semester, but meeting with your advisor can minimize lost opportunities. The worst thing that can happen is that you don’t have time to take a class you’re really interested in! Planning out your classes several semesters ahead of time will help ease any anxieties you have about fitting your minor in with your major. During college, it’s important to get as much as you can out of the experience. If you can fit in another concentration that will help you reach your goals, you should!
What Majors Does a Minor in Music Business Complement?
Music business minors come from a range of departments in the university. Many music business minors come from departments like music engineering, music performance, music therapy, music education, and musicology. In addition, the department enjoys participation from a wide swath of majors from across the university. The requirements for the minor are structured to complement these majors.
Will a Minor in Music Business Give Me an Edge in the Job Market?
Today’s job market is more competitive than ever. A greater number of people than ever before are pursuing higher education. This means that when you apply for a job, there may be several other equally qualified candidates. So, how do employers make hiring decisions? Extra credentials like extracurriculars or taking a minor can give you an edge as potential employers peruse resumes to figure out who is the best candidate for the job. The more experience you have, the more likely an employer is to take you seriously. Talking to recent grads, faculty, and other mentors can give you an idea of what kind of impact going the extra mile can have on your career.
What Kinds of Professionals Have Minors in Music Business?
A minor in music business supports many different kinds of careers. The foundational knowledge you build in your minor program can supplement your major’s focus. Some of the professionals who have minors in music business may include the following:
- A lawyer who specializes in entertainment law
- A professional oboist who runs a music repair shop
- A vocal performer who runs a small, independent music school
- A music teacher who performs gigs every week
- A guitarist who manages a recording studio
- A musical theater professional who works in a licensing capacity for a large firm
No matter the career you end up pursuing, a minor in music business can give you technical knowledge (copyright law, licensing, etc.) as well as transferable skills (collaboration, creative problem solving, etc.).
Can Music Business Minors Participate in Student Life Extracurriculars?
Music business minors are not only allowed, but encouraged to participate in student life extracurriculars. With a wide variety of extracurriculars available, each student can find an area of focus they’re passionate about. Whether you’re interested in student enterprises like Cane Records or Cat 5 Music, student organizations like Grammy U or The Miami Hurricane, or internships and conferences, there is truly something for everyone. Music business minors are encouraged to consult with program faculty and other music business students to find the extracurricular with the right flavor for them.
Where Can I Find More Information about a Minor in Music Business?
Choosing a school can be a complicated process, but it is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make. The Frost School of Music at the University of Miami offers a range of signature music programs, including a minor and major in music business, that help launch you towards a path of success. No matter your music business interest, The Frost School of Music has a program to accommodate your goals.
