The Business Side of Music (MHI2322.02)

Kyoko Kitamura

The business side of music, from contracts to audio distribution platforms, is an important component of an artist’s life which cannot be ignored. Kyoko Kitamura – musician, former journalist, former executive director of the arts organization Tri-Centric Foundation – will share real life examples and analyses, starting with the pandemic and the force majeure clause, its impact on the scene today, musician contracts, new performance and distribution platforms, technology, PR methods, among other relevant issues. Kitamura will also touch on parts of the history of Western music business, such as music copyright and the development of PROs (Performing Rights Organizations), while leading discussions on if and how the industry is keeping up with the speed of change accelerated by the pandemic.


Learning Outcomes:
Learning outcomes:
• Examine the behind-the-scenes work of producing music, and how that affects the artist in today’s world.
• Position music-making within an ecosystem of various interrelated businesses, clarifying its strength and weaknesses in the current economic climate.
• Learn to question and think critically by studying real-life examples of cases which may not have satisfactory answers.



Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Course Level: 2000-level
Credits: 1
Th 10:00AM - 11:50AM (2nd seven weeks)
Maximum Enrollment: 15
Course Frequency: One time only

Categories: All courses , Fully In-Person , History
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