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

Next Session

Jan. 12 - Feb. 8, 2026

Teen and adult sections

VIEW ALL DATES

Tuition

$299

Rates increases Jan. 1

Ages

Teens: Grades 6-12

Adult Learners: 18+

Expert guidance
Receive direct, personalized feedback from a professional artist.
Learn on your own schedule
Explore meaningful instruction in about five hours a week, over four weeks.
Collaborate
Work with your instructor and peers through messaging or optional real-time weekly classes.
Real growth
Develop artistic skills and projects that are important to you in 30 days.
  • Computer or mobile device with Internet and camera. 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.

How does it work? Start a free course demo.

Expert Faculty
Receive direct, personalized feedback from a professional artist.

Real Growth
Develop artistic skills that are important to you in 30 days.

Collaborate
Connect with peers and instructors on your projects—or just for fun.