A&R: Making Music from Acquisition to Release

MUSC X 446.2

Learn the functions of the A&R professional, including the collective effort needed from all departments—artist and label—in the creation of recorded music in all formats, from inception to acquisition and release.

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What you can learn.

Delve into the collective effort needed from all departments to be a successful A&R professional
Learn about the role of producers, managers, and booking agents in the A&R world
Discover how to promote and attract interest from labels without losing your artistic integrity
Hear from guest speakers from all facets of the music industry and their experiences with A&R

About this course:

A definitive analysis of the functions of the A&R professional, this course stresses the collective effort needed from all departments--artist and label--in the creation of recorded music in all formats--from creation to acquisition and release. Topics include new artist acquisition; record deals; the role of the producer; working with personal managers and booking agents; the role of social media from the artist and executive perspectives; A&R and sync strategies; independent touring; the current local music scene; specific A&R approaches for urban music, EDM, singer/songwriter, alternative, and indie music; how to attract interest from major and independent labels without compromising artistic integrity; paths to A&R career positions; and analysis of how recently signed artists got their first contracts. Guest speakers include recording artists, producers, managers, record company executives, and A&R personnel.

Summer 2021 Schedule

Available Format(s):

Remote Instruction

Remote instruction courses are taught online in real-time with regularly scheduled class meetings held via Zoom. Course materials can be accessed any time through an online learning platform.

Available