Music

Tag: Music

Weill Music Institute: Carnegie Hall

In 2003, Carnegie Hall established the Weill Music Institute, all about creating education and social impact programs. They align directly with Carnegie’s mission of making music as accessible as possible. These programs are all free, or at least are low cost, and include workshops, ensembles opportunities, fellowships, and community programs all for increasing access to music through human connection.

Basic Information

Located in New York, NY, but they work with people all over the NYC area as well as the world
15+ programs targeted towards musicians (of all skill levels), educators, youth, and more
All 50 states (and Puerto Rico!) house teachers and organizations that offer WMI programming

Example Programs

National Youth Orchestra of the United States is a summer program for young orchestral musicians ages 16-19 nationwide
National Youth Orchestra Jazz is summer program for young jazz musicians ages 16-19 nationwide
Link Up allows schoolchildren from grades 3-5 to learn about the orchestral experience by pairing them up with a professional orchestra
Big Note, Little Note is a free early childhood music program for families in NYC with children ages 3-18 months
NeON Arts is a free program partnered with the NYC Department of Probation that offers a variety of artistic outlets for youth on probation, hosted at community-based probation offices
Ensemble Connect is a fellowship (partnered with Julliard!) for emerging, professional musicians offered for two years, every two years

How A Lawrentian Can Get Involved

Volunteer: WMI has programs all over the world and can always use more hands! Pus, it would look fantastic on a resume…
Intern: Lawrence has a long standing partnership with Weill. Every year, Carnegie Hall holds an internship spot for a Lawrentian. Keep an eye out early Winter term for the Lawrence Funded Internship opportunities!
Make some music: For our musicians, primarily for first and second years, you can audition for their summer programs, both orchestral and jazz. As long as you’re 19 or younger.
Apply for a fellowship: Ensemble Connect is a fantastic opportunity for those interested in straying from the traditional path of graduate school, but still want to perform and learn. The deadline for the 2027-2029 summers is coming up in early December. Get to it!

Lauren Chance is a current sophomore at Lawrence University double majoring in Business and Entrepreneurship and Music, also minoring in Spanish. As a Career Peer Educator (NES, VPA), an Admissions Student Ambassador, and an EPIC Orientation Leader and Peer Mentor, she has a passion for helping others. Lauren aspires to work in arts administration focusing on marketing or event management. Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn.

How AI Can Help You Land Your First Job in the Arts

So you’ve just graduated (or you’re about to) from Lawrence, and you’re ready to take on the world as an artist, performer, filmmaker, musician, or designer. You’ve got the talent. You’ve got the passion. But the job search? That part might feel… a little overwhelming.

Here’s some good news: you don’t have to do it all alone.

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools can be a major asset for creative grads trying to break into the arts. Whether you’re looking to perform, get cast in a show, land a gallery internship, or work behind the scenes, AI can help you find opportunities, craft stronger applications, and walk into interviews with more confidence.

1. Find Arts-Focused Employers (Without Doom-Scrolling Job Boards)

Not every arts job is going to show up on Handshake, Indeed or LinkedIn. Some of the best opportunities—especially for visual artists, performers, or behind-the-scenes creatives—live on smaller platforms, organization websites, or word of mouth.

But with AI tools like ChatGPT, you can start your search in a smarter way. Try asking things like:

“What contemporary dance companies in New York are open to emerging choreographers?”
“Which small film studios in Atlanta offer assistant editor roles?”
“What art nonprofits hire recent grads for community programs?”

These tools can surface ideas, organizations, and leads you might not have found otherwise. Once you’ve got a list, use AI again to research each place—its mission, recent projects, and what kind of work it’s doing. You’ll walk into the application process already sounding like you get them.

2. Write Custom Resumes and Cover Letters (Without Losing Your Mind)

One of the fastest ways to get ignored? Sending the same generic resume and cover letter to every opportunity.

AI can help you avoid that trap. You can feed it your background and the job description, and it’ll help you draft tailored documents that actually speak to the role. Think:

Artist statements that describe your work clearly and powerfully
Cover letters that highlight your relevant experience (like being the stage manager for Cabaret or editing your senior capstone film)
Resumes that include the right keywords for applicant tracking systems

Pro tip: Always review and edit what AI gives you. Use it as a first draft, not the final product. You want your personality and creativity to shine through.

3. Prep for Interviews Like a Pro

Nervous about interviews? Totally normal. Luckily, AI can help you practice.

Want to prep for a studio assistant role? An audition interview? A grant pitch? You can ask AI to simulate common questions and even give you tips on how to answer them. It’s like having a rehearsal partner—just one that never gets tired of your monologue.

You can also use AI to break down tough questions, practice storytelling, or figure out how to explain a complicated project in simple terms.

4. Don’t Let AI Kill Your Voice

A quick word of caution: don’t rely on AI to do the thinking for you.

Copying and pasting straight from AI tools without editing can make your application feel robotic or off-base. Worse, you might include information that’s outdated or flat-out wrong. And in the arts—where originality, authenticity, and personal connection really matter—that’s a big no.

Use AI as a creative assistant, not a replacement. You bring the spark; AI just helps you shape it.

Final Thoughts: Use the Tools, Own the Journey

Landing your first job in the arts might not look like a straight line. It may be part-time gigs, freelance work, or short-term projects before you find your groove. But using AI can help you approach the process with strategy, clarity, and a lot less stress.

The creative industries reward people who know how to tell their stories—and with AI by your side, you can do just that, from your resume to your next audition or gallery pitch.

What Are Music Booking Conferences?

Music conferences are events where people from the music industry gather to share knowledge, network, and discover new opportunities. They usually feature panels, workshops, and performances, and are a great way for industry professionals to connect and learn from each other.

Positive Experiences and Interactions

One of the best parts of attending a music conference is the chance to meet and learn from experienced professionals. You get to hear inspiring stories, gain valuable insights, and make connections that can help advance your career. For example, at SXSW, you might find yourself chatting with a well-known producer or discovering a new artist that you really connect with.

Different Professions at Music Conferences

Music conferences attract a wide range of professionals, including:

Artists and Musicians: They can showcase their work, get feedback, and network with other artists and industry professionals.
Producers and Songwriters: They can learn about new techniques, collaborate with others, and find new opportunities for their work.
Music Executives and Managers: They can scout new talent, negotiate deals, and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
Music Educators and Students: They can gain new teaching methods, learn about the latest research, and network with peers.

Closing Thoughts

To learn more about the different types of Music Booking Conferences, be sure to check out BAM! Complete Guide to Conferences – United States by Robert Baird. Baird lists an assortment of conferences that take place all over the country!

Music conferences are a fantastic way to learn, grow, and connect with others in the industry. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a seasoned professional, there’s always something new to discover and someone new to meet. So why not give it a try and see where it takes you?

How to Pursue Music Freelance

Rocking the Freelance Music Scene: A Guide to Pursuing Your Passion

If you’ve got a passion for music and want to turn it into a career, you’re in the right place. Freelancing in the music industry can be incredibly rewarding, offering both creative freedom and a variety of work opportunities. Here’s how you can kickstart your career and the types of gigs you can pursue.

Step 1: Build Your Brand

As a freelancer, you are your own brand. Building a strong personal brand can set you apart from the competition and attract clients. Here’s how you can do it:

Create a Professional Website:
- What to Include: Your biography, samples of your work, testimonials, a blog, and contact information.
- Why It’s Important: A professional website acts as your portfolio and makes it easy for potential clients to find and hire you.
Leverage Social Media:
- Platforms to Use: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube.
- What to Post: Regular updates about your projects, behind-the-scenes content, music covers, and live performances.
- Why It’s Important: Social media is a powerful tool to reach a wider audience, engage with fans, and showcase your personality and talent.
Network and Collaborate:
- How to Network: Attend music events, join online music communities, and collaborate with other artists.
- Why It’s Important: Networking can open doors to new opportunities and help you build a solid reputation in the industry.

Step 2: Embrace the Entrepreneurial Spirit

As a music freelancer, you’re not just an artist—you’re also an entrepreneur. Here’s how to get into the entrepreneurial mindset:

Understand the Business Side:
- What to Learn: Basics of contracts, taxes, budgeting, and invoicing.
- Why It’s Important: Managing your finances and legal matters efficiently will help you sustain and grow your career. To learn more about the financial and legal side of Music Freelance be sure to check out Tax Tips for Artists and Musicians.
Set Clear Goals:
- What to Do: Outline short-term and long-term goals for your career.
- Why It’s Important: Having clear objectives keeps you focused and motivated.
Market Yourself:
- Strategies: Use email marketing, join music directories, and participate in industry forums.
- Why It’s Important: Effective marketing helps you reach potential clients and gigs.
Offer Multiple Services:
- What to Offer: Diversify your offerings, such as songwriting, producing, teaching, and performing.
- Why It’s Important: Multiple income streams increase your financial stability.

Step 3: Stay Organized

As a freelancer, you’ll need to manage your schedule, finances, and contracts. Use tools like Google Calendar, Trello, and accounting software to keep everything in check. Staying organized will help you focus on your music and avoid the chaos that can come with freelancing.

Step 4: Keep Learning and Growing

The music industry is always evolving, so stay updated with the latest trends and technologies. Take online courses, attend workshops, booking conferences and never stop learning. The more versatile you are, the more opportunities you’ll have.

Types of Freelance Gigs

Session Musician:
- What it involves: Playing instruments or singing for other artists’ recordings.
- Who it’s for: Instrumentalists and vocalists with solid technical skills and the ability to adapt to different musical styles.
- Example: A guitarist laying down tracks for a pop artist’s new album or a drummer recording for a jazz trio.
Live Performer:
- What it involves: Performing live at venues, events, or tours.
- Who it’s for: Musicians who love the spotlight and have strong stage presence.
- Example: Playing at local bars, weddings, corporate events, or going on tour with a band.
Music Producer:
- What it involves: Overseeing and managing the recording and production of music tracks.
- Who it’s for: Tech-savvy individuals with a knack for sound engineering and creativity.
- Example: Producing tracks for aspiring artists, remixing songs, or creating beats for hip-hop artists.
Composer/Songwriter:
- What it involves: Writing original music or lyrics for artists, TV shows, commercials, or movies.
- Who it’s for: Those with a talent for crafting melodies and lyrics.
- Example: Writing a jingle for an advertisement or composing a score for an indie film.
Music Teacher:
- What it involves: Giving private lessons or teaching at music schools.
- Who it’s for: Musicians who enjoy teaching and sharing their knowledge.
- Example: Offering guitar lessons to beginners or teaching music theory at a local school.
DJ:
- What it involves: Playing and mixing music at clubs, parties, or events.
- Who it’s for: Those who love curating playlists and have a talent for mixing tracks.
- Example: Spinning tunes at a nightclub or being the go-to DJ for weddings and private parties.
Music Licensing:
- What it involves: Licensing your music for use in TV shows, films, commercials, and video games.
- Who it’s for: Composers and producers with a library of original tracks.
- Example: Getting your song featured in a movie trailer or a commercial.

Final Thoughts

Pursuing a career in music freelancing is like riding a wave of creativity and business savvy. It’s challenging, but with passion, dedication, and a bit of hustle, you can turn your musical dreams into reality. So, tune those guitars, warm up those vocal cords, and get ready to rock the world!

Generated with the help of Copilot.

Non-Performing Careers in Music

Perhaps your original career plan was to be a professional singer or musician, but somewhere along the way, that plan changed. Deciding not to perform doesn’t mean you still can’t work in music. Transitioning from a performing career can be challenging, but it also offers a world of opportunities where your skills and passion for music can thrive. While some might require additional education, here are ten other options to consider.

Music Education

Teaching: Consider obtaining teaching credentials to become a music teacher in schools or private institutions. Your performance background will be invaluable in inspiring and educating students.
Workshops and Clinics: Lead workshops, masterclasses, or clinics for aspiring musicians. This can be particularly fulfilling and allow you to share your expertise.

Music Therapy

Certification: Pursue certification as a music therapist. This field combines music with therapeutic practices to help individuals with various emotional, mental, or physical challenges.
Specializations: Work in settings such as hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, or private practice.

Music Production and Technology

Sound Engineering: Learn about sound engineering and audio production. Your musical ear can be an asset in recording studios, live sound for events, or post-production for media.
Music Production: Work as a music producer, helping other artists to develop their sound and record their music.

Arts Administration

Management: Use your insider knowledge of the music industry to manage arts organizations, orchestras, or theaters. Roles in operations, marketing, or development can be very rewarding.
Event Planning: Organize concerts, festivals, or other music-related events. This can include everything from logistics to artist management.

Music Business and Entrepreneurship

Music Publishing: Work in music publishing, helping artists get their music distributed and monetized.
Artist Management: Become an artist manager, using your experience to guide other musicians in their careers.
Entrepreneurship: Start your own music-related business, such as a music school, a recording studio, or a music promotion company.

Writing and Journalism

Music Criticism: Write for music magazines, blogs, or newspapers as a critic or columnist, sharing your insights and reviews of performances, albums, and trends.
Content Creation: Develop content for online platforms, creating videos, podcasts, or blogs that focus on music education, reviews, or industry news.

Performance-Related Roles

Session Musician: Work as a session musician for recordings or live performances. This can be a more flexible and varied path compared to solo performing.
Accompanist: Accompany other performers, whether singers, dancers, or other musicians, in various settings such as schools, churches, or theaters.

Corporate Roles in the Music Industry

Marketing and PR: Use your understanding of the music scene to work in marketing, public relations, or social media for music labels, venues, or artist agencies.
Talent Scouting: Work as a talent scout or A&R (Artists and Repertoire) representative, discovering and nurturing new talent.

Community and Non-Profit Work

Community Programs: Lead or coordinate community music programs, which can range from youth orchestras to outreach programs in underserved areas.
Non-Profit Organizations: Work with non-profit organizations that promote music education, cultural initiatives, or support for musicians.

Further Education and Specialization

Advanced Degrees: Consider pursuing further education in fields like musicology, ethnomusicology, or arts administration, which can open up additional career paths in academia or specialized areas.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to reflect on your interests, strengths, and the aspects of music that you are most passionate about. Networking with professionals in these fields and possibly seeking internships or volunteer opportunities can provide practical insights and open doors. Remember, the skills and experiences you’ve gained in performance—such as discipline, creativity, and collaboration—are highly transferable and valued in many other roles within the music industry and beyond.

Pursuing a Career in Music Therapy

Hey there, future Music Therapists! Are you one of those people who believes in the healing power of music? Maybe you’ve experienced it yourself—how a certain song can lift your spirits, calm your nerves, or bring back cherished memories. Well, guess what? You can turn that passion into a rewarding career. Here’s a down-to-earth guide on how to become a music therapist and what to study in college to get there.

What is Music Therapy?

Music therapy is an established health profession in which music is used to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. Certified music therapists use the power of music to help clients improve their health and well-being. Music therapists design music sessions for individuals and groups based on client needs using music improvisation, receptive music listening, song writing, lyric discussion, music and imagery, music performance, and learning through music; participate in interdisciplinary treatment planning, ongoing evaluation, and follow up.

Why Choose Music Therapy?

Music therapy can be incredibly rewarding. You’ll have the chance to make a significant difference in people’s lives, helping them heal and grow through the universal language of music. Whether working with children with special needs, adults recovering from trauma, or seniors with Alzheimer’s, your work will have a profound impact.

So, if you’re passionate about music and want to help others, consider a career in music therapy. It’s a beautiful blend of art and science, offering both emotional fulfillment and professional satisfaction.

Things to Consider When Becoming a Music Therapist

Common College Majors:

While there is no one-size-fits-all path, here are some common and helpful majors:

Psychology: Understanding the human mind is crucial. Pair this with music courses.
Music Performance/Education: Focus on honing your musical skills while taking electives in psychology and health sciences.
Neuroscience or Biology: These majors provide a strong understanding of the biological aspects of therapy.

Complete an Internship:

As part of your degree, you’ll need to complete an internship under the supervision of a board-certified music therapist. This hands-on experience is invaluable.

Consider Advanced Education:

Some music therapists go on to pursue a master’s or even a doctoral degree to specialize further and open up more career opportunities. Here are some graduate school programs you can consider:

Master of Arts in Music Therapy and Counseling: Programs like the one at Drexel University integrate advanced music therapy coursework with general counseling courses and hands-on clinical experience. This prepares graduates for various career paths in music therapy and counseling
Master of Education in Special Education with a focus on Music Therapy: Some universities offer specialized education degrees that include coursework in music therapy, such as Arizona State University and Grand Canyon University.
Master of Science in Music Therapy: Programs like the one at Sam Houston State University offer a master’s degree in music therapy for students with and without a bachelor’s degree in music therapy. These programs often include practicum or clinical supervision requirements.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Music Therapy: For those interested in advanced study and research, programs like the one at the Herron School of Art + Design offer a Ph.D. in music therapy, which can be completed online or on-campus.
Online Master’s Programs: Many universities now offer online master’s programs in music therapy, which can be a flexible option for students who need to balance work or other commitments.
When choosing a graduate program, make sure it is approved by the American Music Therapy Association (AMTA) to ensure it meets the necessary standards for certification and licensure.

Get Certified:

In the United States, you’ll need to pass the certification exam offered by the Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) to become a board-certified music therapist (MT-BC).

Online Sources: