The University of Louisiana at Lafayette's newly established music business degree offers graduates an education designed to prepare them for the boardroom or the concert stage ­­- or both.

"We have very strong programs already in performance, jazz music, media theory and comp and piano pedagogy, but there are people who want to work in the business side of music," said Dr. Garth Alper, director of the UL Lafayette School of Music and Performing Arts.

The new degree is tailored for careers in a range of music-related fields including concert promotions, music and video production, contract negotiations and retail, Alper said.

The curriculum also serves aspiring musicians who realize their stab at becoming the next Pavarotti might not pan out as planned.

"It doesn't preclude them from becoming great artists, but many students want a solid back up plan," Alper said.

The syllabus contains courses covering topics like management booking, touring and legal issues alongside standard business classes like economics and financial accounting.

Music business majors also are required to take many of the same courses traditional music majors take like music history, ensemble lessons or playing an instrument.

"Students don't have to go quite as deeply into the performance side, but they are going to have some good music skills when they leave," Alper said.
The dual focus also widens career choices for music majors beyond becoming teachers or band directors, two traditional and popular jobs.

Read more: http://www.katc.com/news/ul-lafayette-launches-music-business-degree-program/