Do the Hustle: 4 Ways Schools Prepare Entrepreneurs

The profile of the 21^st century musician is on everyone’s mind as evidenced by the re-tooling of music school tag lines across the country. In a time when learning outcomes and job placement are in the spotlight, music schools have given entrepreneurship a front row seat. Musicians have always been hustlers, so the idea of entrepreneurship isn’t new to our industry. The question is, how are music schools and conservatories making it a part of the experience.

Don’t get me wrong. Music students should have the ability to spend 6 hours a day practicing the sonata they have always dreamed of performing. However, institutions need to help their students understand that having a meaningful life in music involves a potpourri of skills.

So, what is the right curricular toolbox to facilitate creative entrepreneurship? The key is finding a program that emphasizes innovation and entrepreneurship at every turn.

The Musician’s Curricular Keys to Success

Musicianship - The essential skills of musical and artistic excellence should continue to form the heart of the curriculum. But, how has this been taken further so that you, the student, can discover and hone your artistic identity?

1. Partners – Does the institution partner with professional organizations? How are current students engaging in these partnerships? There is no better way to round out the entrepreneurial education of a musician than by letting them experience a professional environment.
2. Community Engagement – 21^st century musicians have a responsibility to be advocates for the art. It is important that students understand how much of an impact they can make. Does the institution offer teaching artist opportunities? Are there partnerships with community youth organizations, El Sistema nucleos, and/or local public and private school music teachers?
3. Interdepartmental Courses & Project Based Learning – How will you work with students in other departments? Are there courses that push the boundaries of traditional performance? What hands-on learning opportunities are offered?

When looking for a curriculum that addresses the changing musical landscape, these are some of the essential things that prospective students should look for.

Spotlight: Longy School of Music of Bard College

A prime example of this type of creative curriculum can be found at Longy School of Music of Bard College. Longy has long been at the forefront of curricular innovation and entrepreneurship is woven throughout all of their programs.

From the Teaching Artist Program to the Portfolio Project, a class in which all students are required to build the practical assets they need as performers, Longy students are thinking outside the box about their careers and preparing themselves for the digital age of music and beyond.