By continuing to use this site, you agree to the use of cookies in accordance with our privacy policy.

Music Industry

Combine your status as an accomplished musician with knowledge about the theoretical, practical, creative, and legal workings of the music industry.

Music Industry students working in the Belfer Audio Lab.

The rigorous curriculum will allow you to perform while you are expanding your music business acumen. Your expertise will grow and prepare you to analyze current trends in the music industry and find solutions to industry problems. Throughout your degree program, you will have the opportunity to attend conferences and take part in a music internship.


About VPA

Home to the visual and performing arts at Syracuse, VPA supports the creative process and professional development. The College is divided into seven areas: the School of Art; the Department of Communication and Rhetorical Studies; the School of Design; the Department of Drama; the Rose, Jules R. and Stanford S. Setnor School of Music; the Department of Film and Media Arts; and the Department of Creative Arts Therapy.

Courses

  • Music Industry and the Media
  • Live Sound and Concert Recording
  • Music Industry Law and Ethics
  • Social Media for the Music Business
  • Basic Conducting
  • European and American Music Since 1914

View official major requirements

Practical Experience

If you distinguish yourself in the bachelor of music program with high grades and GMAT scores, you can apply to Whitman School of Management’s MBA track in your sophomore year. You’ll be able to earn your undergraduate and graduate degrees in just five years.

You’ll have exposure to a wide variety of guest professionals in performance, industry, conducting, composing, and education. Visiting and guest artists are featured in concerts, lectures, and presentations.

The Setnor School of Music is located in Crouse College, one of the oldest buildings on campus and featured on the National Register of Historic Places. Also located there is the 700-seat Rose and Jules R. Setnor Auditorium, featuring a 3,823-pipe Holtkamp Organ. Some 200 recitals are held here each year. Classrooms and rehearsal spaces are located in Crouse College and Shaffer Art Building, and a recording studio is located in the Belfer Audio Archives.

Study Abroad

Today’s musicians must prepare for careers on a global level. The Setnor School has designed study abroad programs in London and Los Angeles that not only broaden your perspective and enhance your resume, but also maximize your international experience and coordinate with your graduation timeline. Syracuse Abroad also offers more than 100 programs in 60 countries.

There is also the opportunity to spend a semester in Los Angeles, considered the entertainment capital of the world. You’ll take classes at Syracuse’s LA center and complete an internship with a music or entertainment company.

Music professions majors enjoy Gilbert Week—a weeklong immersion program in New York City during spring break of sophomore year. You’ll gain insight into music careers, meet with alumni and arts professionals, and visit some leading arts organizations and institutions.

Life After Syracuse University

As a College of Visual and Performing Arts graduate with a major in music industry, you can explore such careers as:

  • Arts organization manager
  • Music producer
  • Music publisher
  • Musical instrument manufacturing
  • Music software development
  • Musician contracting