Contact:
LACM Admissions
[email protected]
(626) 568 8850
Talk with an Admissions Counselor
Department Head
Erin Workman
[email protected]
The Master of Arts degree in Music Business is a practice-oriented degree designed to focus on the development of professional competence for students who intend to pursue a career in music as artists and educators.
The degree, including its curricular structure, requirements for admission, continuation and graduation, are guided by the mission statement and purposes objectives of the Los Angeles of Music graduate degree program.
Mission Statement
The Los Angeles College of Music master’s program provides a rich environment where students develop a competitive career path through artistic endeavor, rigorous training, scholarship and unparalleled exposure to the music industry to become influential creative artists, educators, and entrepreneurs.
Purposes/Objectives
Directed by the guiding principle to develop students as successful artistic entrepreneurs, the purposes and objectives, structure and content of the Master of Music and Master of Arts programs focus on in-depth knowledge and competence in a major field of specialization and a breadth of competence through practice and scholarship.
The institution maintains a rigorous admissions policy that aligns with the objectives and goals of the Master of Music programs. The Graduate Studies Committee evaluates applicants for academic accomplishment, musicianship, talent, artistry, and level of commitment.
- All Master of Music and Master of Arts applicants are required to hold a Bachelor of Music (BM) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Music from an accredited institution. Bachelor’s degrees in other fields of study are accepted if applicants have the musical training and musicianship necessary to pursue a graduate-level education. Degrees from international institutions are considered with a US equivalency evaluation report from a certified credential evaluator.
- A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 from the applicant’s baccalaureate degree is recommended for admission.
- Applicants must submit an essay on their goals in pursuing a career in music and what they expect to gain and contribute to the master’s program.
- Applicants must pass an entrance audition and demonstrate advanced proficiency in their major field of specialization.
- Applicants may be asked to take placement exams that demonstrate competency at the baccalaureate level in Musicianship, Music History, Music Technology and Music Business.
Written Submission Requirements:
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Personal Essay (300–500 words):
Describe the origins of your interest in the music industry and any relevant background or experiences. Be sure to include specific details about your involvement in music—whether on the creative or business side. If applicable, include experiences from both areas. -
Industry Essay (500–800 words):
Respond to one of the following prompts. Your response should be research-based and include proper citations.-
The music industry is constantly evolving. Provide your assessment of the current state of the industry, identify emerging trends that may shape its future, and discuss the key challenges likely to arise in the next 3–5 years. Your response should be research-based and include proper citations
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As an artist manager, what do you believe are the most essential factors for ensuring the success of an independent songwriter and/or artist in today’s industry? Your response should be research-based and include proper citations
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Performance Submission:
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Submit a video performance demonstrating proficiency on your primary instrument. Guitar or piano is preferred, though alternate instruments, including voice, are also acceptable.
Strategy in a Complex Ecosystem (2 credits)
Study of the role and responsibilities of A&R within multiple business models including major label, independent label, publishing, licensing, production companies, and more. This class consists of a weekly two hour lecture.
Revenue Streams and Budgeting Strategy (2 credits)
Students will explore multiple ancillary streams of revenue, study varied models of business strategy, and will gain an understanding of budgeting for small and large scale projects. This class consists of a weekly two-hour lecture.
Advanced Music Business Law & Contract Negotiation (2 credits)
A deeper dive into varied types of contracts, agreements, proposals, etc. that must be understood by the music industry professional. This course will also instruct in a practical manner on the art of negotiation. This class consists of a weekly two-hour lecture.
Live Event & Tour Production (2 credits)
Conceptual study of all business and creative management aspects involved in the production of live events and tours. This class consists of a weekly two-hour lecture
Music Industry Data Strategy (2 credit)
Understanding how to analyze data regarding sales, industry trends, marketing strategies, and more. Students will learn how to craft and implement a broad scope data strategy. This class consists of a weekly two-hour lecture.
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