What to expect from a career in the Music Business
The music industry is known to be highly competitive and hard to break into, even for those who want to work on the business side. Music business programs at Ontario colleges can provide you with the professional and practical skills and knowledge that will give you an advantage in this competitive industry.
If you want to be a step above the competition in the music business, here’s what you need to know.
Music Business Courses
Music business programs at Ontario colleges focus on business administration and management to provide students with a complete overview of the industry and its demands. Courses in music business programs cover common the various business roles, including (but not limited to):
- Promotions
- Tour management
- Entertainment marketing
- Artist management
- Web design and e-business
Business courses provide students with skills in accounting, management and computer essentials. Students will sharpen their organizational skills, while also learning how to work well under pressure and adapt to changing situations.
Programs often include field placements and other workshop opportunities, where students will gain firsthand experience in event planning and other aspects of the music industry.
Note: If you want to enhance your current music theory skills and learn how to produce and record music, programs are available that focus on music production, engineering and business.
Music Business Program Requirements
Music business programs typically require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including a grade 12 English credit. Additional senior level credits may also be required, so check program details carefully.
Music Business Jobs and Salaries
Ontario college music business programs lead to diverse opportunities in the music and entertainment industry, including managing tours, booking performers, promoting artists and events, creating promotional materials, negotiating contracts and more. Jobs are often found at record labels, talent agencies, marketing and promotions firms and sound studios.
Specific positions may include (but aren’t limited to):
- Tour Manager
- Publicist
- Music Publisher
- Artist Manager
- Recruiter
Salaries in the music business industry vary – independent music managers may not make very much until their artist “makes it” or they find multiple clients. Once a person is established, however, salaries should reflect level of expertise. The average starting salary for music business program graduates is around $30,000 per year.
Ontario Colleges Offering Music Business Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of music business programs at Ontario colleges.
More Information
Current Filters: