Introduction to Music Business

Gain a clear understanding of how the music industry functions and how to blend creative strategy with practical knowledge of how music is produced, marketed, and monetized.
The course begins with an exploration of the music industry’s structure, music distribution channels, and the essential roles on an artist’s team. You'll assess your own fit within the industry by examining relevant career paths and identifying the key players who help artists succeed, such as managers, agents, and publicists.
Next, you’ll dive into the foundational concepts of copyright, publishing, and the Music Modernization Act. You'll examine the flow of royalties, understand different types of publishing deals, and learn how to protect your creative work in an evolving legal landscape.
Finally, you’ll put strategy into action by learning the business of album releases: how to distribute music through digital platforms, grow a fanbase through touring and digital marketing, and leverage brand partnerships, philanthropy, and sync licensing to amplify your reach and earnings.
What you will learn:
✔ Identify the core components of the music industry and how revenue flows from consumer to creator
✔ Explain the differences between various music publishing and administration deals and their implications
✔ Develop a basic digital marketing and touring plan to support a music release
✔ Identify potential brand partnerships and sync licensing opportunities to amplify an album launch


Tuition
$299
Ages
Teens: Grades 6-12
Adult Learners: 18+
![]() | Receive expert guidance Learn from world-class faculty who provide personalized feedback |
![]() | Learn at your own pace Explore engaging video content and meaningful instruction |
![]() | Meet your instructor and classmates Join an optional weekly class to connect with other artists in real-time |
![]() | Practice and create Strengthen your craft over four weeks as you develop creative projects |
![]() | Find collaborators Collaborate on your projects—or just for fun—in direct messages and group chats |
- Computer or mobile device with Internet. Internet speed must be at least 1.5Mbps download and 800Kbps upload. For students using a mobile device, download the Canvas mobile app and select “Interlochen Online” as your school.
No, course sections are designed for their respective age groups, either for adults (students 18 and older) or young people (students under 18).
Yes, there are eight sessions of courses per year. View the academic calendar for more session dates.


Instructor of Music Business
Questions? Speak with an Advisor.
Email: online@interlochen.org
Phone: 231.276.5990
You can also schedule an appointment.
Access Free Resources from Interlochen Online
Learn on a schedule that works for you
Expert instruction and personalized feedback
Connection with peers from around the world
Coursework that supports your creative expression