Interdisciplinary Studies, the Music Business

Students will explore music industry careers including, artists, songwriters, managers, and labels. They will also analyze lesser known careers in the industry and have the opportunity to research career paths in the industry.  (18 hours)

This unit focuses on how artists and others in the music industry earn and divide income. Students will look at how both traditional and modern opportunities such as album sales, streaming services, and touring produce income. They will also explore copyright law along with intellectual property rights in Canada and around the world.  (20 hours)

 Students investigate the business side of the music industry and are introduced the idea that artists and labels run their own business. They will learn about the basics of business structure, unique music industry expenses, and the importance of communication in the music industry.  (20 hours)

 This unit is designed to introduce students to the basic music theory knowledge needed to work in the music industry. Students will explore how rhythm, melody, and harmony are used to create popular songs and genres. Although they will learn theory, students do not need formal music training to complete this unit.  (22 hours)

 In this final unit, students will learn about marketing in the music industry and how it has evolved to utilize new technologies over the years. Students will explore marketing and branding, radio promotion, publicity, social media, and music streaming. At the end of the course students will create their own marketing plan.  (20 hours)

 Together the final project and final exam make up 30% of the final grade with the final project worth 15% and the final exam also worth 15%.  (10 hours)