To introduce students to the range of activities undertaken within the music industries
To explain the historical and contemporary organisation and functions of record companies
To outline and discuss issues raised by the relationship between the music industries and the creative industries

(LO1) Students will attain knowledge of the changing contexts of the music industries.

(LO2) Students will attain knowledge of the different structures and functions of record companies.

(LO3) Students will demonstrate knowledge of how record companies fit into the music business as a whole.

(LO4) Students will identify and discuss processes through which music is commodified and mediated.

(S1) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills - written

(S2) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Influencing skills – argumentation

(S3) Critical thinking and problem solving - Critical analysis

(S4) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Media analysis

(S5) Critical thinking and problem solving - Evaluation

(S6) Critical thinking and problem solving - Synthesis

This introductory module will provide an overview for understanding the function, role and significance of the music industries within a creative industries environment. It is a module appropriate for students with no previous experience of music industries studies. Successful completion of the module will provide a foundation for further music, music industries studies, communication and media studies.

Content will be available to students through lectures and seminars, and supported by access on VITAL. Library resources will be available through the module reading list, and VITAL where appropriate.

Recommended and supplementary reading will be available through VITAL as appropriate. When preparing assessments, students are expected to supplement these materials with their own independent scholarly research.

Students are expected to attend and engage in weekly lectures and seminars. Recommended readings will be indicated ahead of each lecture. Seminars will be a variety of readings and tasks, all of which will be indicated ahead of each seminar, with relevant materials uploaded to VITAL as appropriate.

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture (Online, Synchronous)
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: Lectures introduce key issues and themes. Case study material introduces key areas of the music industries. Over 12 weeks.

Teaching Method 2 - Seminar (In-person, Synchronous)
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 3 - Seminar (Online, Asynchronous)
Attendance Recorded: No

Self-directed Learning: Supporting lecture ideas, seminar tasks and assessment preparation.