Music Business Foundations Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
Overview: This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the music business, designed for beginners and aspiring professionals. Over approximately 11 hours of content, learners will explore the evolution of the music industry, key legal frameworks, and the roles that shape the business. Through a combination of video lectures, practical assignments, and peer reviews, students will gain foundational knowledge essential for navigating the modern music landscape. The course concludes with a final project that applies key concepts to real-world scenarios.
Module 1: The Music Industry
Estimated time: 3 hours
- History of the music industry from 1900 to present
- Impact of technological advancements on music consumption
- Evolution of music production and distribution
- Key shifts in the industry due to digital innovation
Module 2: Recording Agreements
Estimated time: 3 hours
- Types of recording contracts
- Understanding royalties and advances
- Traditional vs. 360-degree deals
- How recording agreements affect artists and producers
Module 3: Copyright Basics
Estimated time: 2 hours
- Foundations of copyright law in music
- The bundle of rights in a copyright
- History and development of music copyright
- How to register and protect creative works
Module 4: Managers, Agents, and Attorneys
Estimated time: 2 hours
- Roles of personal managers, agents, and attorneys
- Functions of business managers and legal advisors
- Importance of written agreements in professional relationships
- Negotiating contracts for industry roles
Module 5: Industry Roles and Agreements
Estimated time: 1 hour
- Key figures in the music business ecosystem
- Duties and obligations outlined in agreements
- Collaborative structures between artists and professionals
Module 6: Final Project
Estimated time: 2 hours
- Analyze a sample recording contract
- Identify copyright protections for an original composition
- Develop a professional team structure for an artist
Prerequisites
- No prior knowledge of the music business required
- Basic understanding of music creation or performance helpful
- Access to internet for course materials and peer reviews
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Understand the historical and technological evolution of the music industry
- Analyze recording agreements and identify key contractual elements
- Apply copyright law fundamentals to protect original music
- Recognize the roles and responsibilities of industry professionals
- Construct a foundational business strategy for an artist or project