Introduction to Music Business


Two people in a recording studio

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

Next Session

July 14 - Aug. 10, 2025

Teen and adult sections

VIEW ALL DATES

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.

Interlochen Online's Learning Experience

World-class. Inspiring. Flexible.

Brad Turcotte

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