Degree Overview:

Students will develop an awareness of different revenue streams, analyze areas such as record labels, publishing, independent artists, digital distribution, and the flow of money within the industry. They will learn about copyright, industry deals, and agreements, and gain the skills to negotiate effectively. Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared to pursue a range of careers in the music industry, such as A&R manager, artist manager, record label manager, venue promoter, branding manager, event programmer, music distributor, music publisher, booking agent, tour manager, and more.

Outline:

Structure:

The Music Business Certificate is delivered over three terms. Each term consists of one module, each focused on a specific aspect of the music industry:

Term 1: Music Industry:

Introduction to the Music Industry: Introduces students to the fundamental components of the music industry and their interconnectedness.
Music Copyrights: Explores the importance and value of copyright in the music industry.
Major and Independent Record Labels: Examines the different types of record labels and their operations.
Music Publishers: Covers the role of music publishers in the industry.
Music Distribution and Consumption: Analyzes the different methods of distributing and consuming music.
Music Streaming: Explores the impact of music streaming services on the industry.
The Independent Artist Route: Provides guidance on navigating the music industry as an independent artist.
Artist Management: Examines the role of artist managers and the skills required for success.
The Live Sector: Covers the live music industry and its components.
Contracts & Agreements: Explains the different types of contracts and agreements used in the industry.
Negotiation Skills: Develops students' negotiation skills.
Synchronization: Covers the process of using music in film, television, and other media.

Term 2: Marketing & Branding:

Building and Maintaining a Brand: Focuses on developing and maintaining a strong brand identity for artists, businesses, or individuals.
Design and Content Tools: Introduces students to the tools and strategies for creating effective design and content.
Digital Marketing: Covers digital marketing strategies for the music industry.
Release Marketing: Explains how to market music releases effectively.
Marketing Strategies and Plans: Teaches students how to create and implement successful marketing plans.
Publicity and Radio: Covers techniques for securing publicity and radio play.
Marketing on a Budget: Provides strategies for effective marketing on a limited budget.

Term 3: Music Entrepreneur:

Critical Evaluation and Communication: Develops students' critical thinking and communication skills.
Carrying out Research: Provides guidance on conducting industry research.
Business Models & Opportunities: Explores different business models and opportunities in the music industry.
Business Planning: Teaches students how to create comprehensive business plans.
Professional Development: Focuses on developing professional skills and strategies.
Career Planning: Helps students create a career plan.
Artist Development: Provides guidance on developing and promoting artists.
Release Planning: Covers the planning process for music releases.
Pitch Decks: Trains students on how to create compelling pitch decks.

Course Schedule:

Weekly Timetable: One class per week.
Available Start Dates: Multiple start dates throughout the year.

Teaching:

Expert Lecturers: The program features a faculty of experienced music industry professionals, including lecturers who have worked with major labels, artists, and organizations.
Small Class Sizes: Point Blank prides itself on small class sizes to ensure individual attention and personalized instruction.
Live Event Organization: The program culminates in students organizing a live event at a London venue, providing practical experience and real-world application of their learnings.
Student Ecosystem: The program benefits from a dynamic student ecosystem within the Shoreditch music scene, connecting students with other budding artists, managers, producers, and singers.

Careers:

Career Opportunities: Graduates of the program are prepared for a wide range of careers in the music industry.
Alumni Success Stories: The program boasts a successful alumni network, with graduates holding positions at major labels, managing artists, and pursuing successful careers in various music industry roles.

Other:

Membership: All students receive membership to the Music Managers Forum (MMF), the largest representative body of music management in the world.
Equipment: The school provides all necessary equipment for class activities.
Discounts: Point Blank students are eligible for discounts on software and equipment from industry partners such as Apple Education, Ableton, Native Instruments, Pioneer DJ, and others.
Studio Access: Students have access to the school's studios 7 days a week for practice and project work.
1-2-1 Sessions: Students can schedule regular one-on-one sessions with lecturers for additional support and guidance.
Full-time Work: The school offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate students with full-time jobs.

Program start date	Application deadline
2024-07-08	-
2024-09-30	-
2025-01-13	-
2025-04-14	-
2025-07-14	-