To introduce students to the range of activities undertaken within the music industries
To explain the history of the music industries and explore contemporary challenges in the sector
To introduce students to a range of careers in the music industries

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

(LO2) Students will attain knowledge of history of the music industries.

(LO3) Students will demonstrate understanding of contemporary challenges in the music sector.

(LO4) Students will attain and demonstrate knowledge of a range of careers in the music industries.

(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 and introduce students to a range of careers in the music sector. 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.

A mixture of theoretical and practical topics will be covered in the lectures and seminars. Subjects might include:
- The rise of major record labels
- History of recording formats and their impact on industry and listening
- Digital watershed and the emergence of streaming
- Contemporary challenges in the music sector
- Jobs / roles in the music industry
- The purpose of organisations such as Musicians’ Union and PRS
- Advice on building practical industry experience throughout undergradu ate degrees

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

Recommended and supplementary reading will be available through Canvas as appropriate. When preparing assessments, students are expected to supplement these materials with their own independent scholarly research and analysis of current music industry practice, for example, through consulting websites of industry bodies, looking at policy documents relating to the cultural sector, or examining the programming or marketing of a music organisation.
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 Canvas as appropriate.

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture (In-person, Synchronous)
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Notes: Lectures introduce key issues and themes. Over 12 weeks.

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

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