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MUSIC EDUCATION

15 Reasons Why Most Upcoming Artists Fail And Others Succeed

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15 Reasons Why Most Upcoming Artists Fail And Others Succeed

Obviously, every upcoming artiste got their own game plans regarding their career. Most of them got one thing in mind; and that is being “Recognized” and getting a juicy record deal to boost their personality and be treated as “Stars”…

There is a saying that “Heavens Helps Those Who Helps Themselves” and you should know that recording 200 songs does not get you closer to a record deal; but the impact a song makes is what gets you deals. Some artistes gets a deal with just one debut single and that is because he/she really took time to build his career before approaching the world.

Below are 15 simple things artistes ignore or never thought of.

1.Work Ethic:  Many artists with a dream, talent and creativity still manage to fail due to poor work ethic. If you don't consistently make songs, you won't consistently get fans. If you limit your ways of promotion to Youtube only or Twitter only, you are missing out on success by not taking a chance and trying other ways to promote your music. Your work ethic in this business WILL make or break you.

2.Lack of Knowledge: If you don't know the rules of the game, chances are, you'll lose. Many indie artists don't even take the time out to research how the music business operates. Those who are always hungry for knowledge to expand in their field are the ones who usually excel the most. Take some time out to Google a few things about your genre, your instrument, and how the people doing what you aspire to do operate on a regular basis.

3.Ineffective Efforts: This can also tie into work ethic. Not only should you work hard, but you should work smart. Funneling money into bad marketing efforts, spamming people with your music who aren't even in your ideal target audience, and performing to the same crowd of people or at the same venue over and over in hopes of expansion are just a few examples of ineffective efforts.

4.Building Relationships: Networking is sometimes the push that indie artists need to make it over the ‘no results' hump. You would be surprised by how quickly your career will start moving by regularly connecting with those at your level in your music market, and making efforts to connect to those who are even a few steps ahead that can help you with your exposure.

5. Strong Foundation: Many artists don't build a solid foundation so their success is limited and fleeting. It also means that when opportunities arise (e.g. a YouTube video goes viral), they are not in a position to take advantage of them. Successful artists prepare for and put themselves in the way of opportunity.

6. Team:  A lot of artists tend to make the mistake of trying to boost their career all alone. Sure, you may be a hustler who can make major things happen when you put your mind to it. But, there is strength in numbers! Growing a team of people who are dedicated to promoting and helping your brand is also a great way to excel fast in this industry. Not to mention, new listeners tend to want to hear the opinion of someone else about your music, not your own opinion of your music. Having a team to vouch for you is a great way to draw in even more potential fans.

7. Talent: Let's face it, if you don't have any talent at all, it's very unlikely that you will make it far. This is a consumer-based market that relies on an artist's likability. If no one likes you or your sound, no one will give you money. Now I know you are probably thinking, “What about the talentless crap I hear on the radio all the time?”. Firstly, in a scenario where the artist is garbage but still on the radio, they still have a talented team (writers, producers, engineers). Also, people fail to realize that established artists that you might think sound like garbage still have great work ethics . How do you think they got where they are? A great work ethic is a very under-rated talent!

 

8. Uniqueness: Many artists are trying to be the next ‘____' instead of creating a sound and look all their own. Even though they may be incredibly talented, nothing about them distinguishes them from the artists they hear on the radio or the multitude of similar artists vying for attention. Successful artists know that the best way to stand out from the crowd is to be unique in as many ways as possible, and they work hard at it. They also know how to build a brand around their uniqueness.

9. Perseverance: Many artists quit too soon. Maybe they have had some success and so they stop doing the things that got them there. Many just get tired of wasting time, money and effort, when all the while they have started creating the kind of buzz that can lead to much bigger and better things. Successful artists refuse to give in. They are determined to figure the puzzle out. They measure the results of their efforts so they see and work to capitalize on even the smallest amounts of progress.

10. Image: Many artists look like amateurs. Their promo materials, if they have them are not attractive. Many either don't have a website, or the one they have looks like it was developed by a 3 year old. Often they don't have business cards. Many don't dress appropriately, especially for business meetings. Successful artists know that everything about them and everything that represents them has to make them look like they are in the major leagues. They never settle for ‘good enough.' They hire experienced graphic designers to create their online and print marketing. They dress like businesspeople when it is appropriate. They know that their biggest competitors are doing the same!

11. Finances: Many artists are under-funded and so they can't purchase the tools they need or hire the help they need. Sometimes this is a result of lack of funds to begin with. Sometimes it is because the available funds are not spent wisely. Successful artists know that they need to constantly invest and reinvest in their act. They establish a budget and stick with it. They raise capital if it is necessary, whether it comes from investors, crowdsourcing, a loan or some sort of enterprising venture. If they are not good at managing their money, they hire someone who is. They do not let money, or the lack of it stop them.

12. Professionalism: Many artists act unprofessionally, or just don't have a pleasing personality. They don't treat others with respect. They are not on time for gigs, rehearsals, photo shoots, interviews or anything else. They are oblivious to other people's feelings, egos, needs or desires. Successful artists always act in a professional manner. They are personable, so people want to be around them and help them succeed. They know that this is what it takes to earn the respect of their team, their fans and the industry.

13. Freshness: Many artists get stuck in ruts and never climb out of them, becoming stale and predictable. This can become evident in their music, their stage show, the look and feel of their marketing, they way they dress and everything else they do. Successful artists are always adding new dimensions to themselves. They keep everyone curious about just what they are going to come up with next. They not only watch the trends, they either jump ahead of them or set their own. They find ways to become pioneers. They avoid stagnation by constantly reinventing themselves, all the while remaining true to their fans and their brand.

14. Fan Management: Many artists have no idea who their fans are. They can't tell you with any sense of accuracy their biggest fan demographics like age, gender, income level, where they live, what their occupations or hobbies are etc. Successful artists know their fans and everything about them because they interact with them. Many conduct surveys and contests to extract demographic information that they use to select the merch they sell. They use that info to know what to write songs about. They track where the people who visit their website are coming from so they know where to book gigs.

15. Communication: Many artists are bad communicators. They don't have an email list or newsletter. They don't keep their website or social networks up to date. They don't blog. No one knows if the artist is still performing or recording, or even alive. Out of sight, out of mind. Successful artists know that constant communication with their fans is key to keeping them for a long time. By keeping their fans both informed and engaged, they dramatically increase the dollar value of every one (how much each fan will spend on music, merch and gigs in a specific amount of time).

There are countless more reasons why some artists fail and some succeed. Timing, unforeseen circumstances such as illness, lack of family support, etc. can all dramatically affect an artist's career. But when all the playing fields are leveled, the bottom line is that those artists who succeed and remain successful are the ones who are constantly improving, adapting and creating and taking care of business.

Thanks for reading. You can pls leave your comments below of you find this useful and pls don't hesitate to share.

Samuel Amadotor, known professionally as D.Klass GH is Multiple Award Winning Ghanaian Blogger, Music Promoter, Publicist, Pharmacy Technician by Profession and the Founder of Dklassgh.Com. He has an interest in promoting Up and coming artists and has a keen interest in showcasing the talents in Volta Region. His blogging covers international artists and has affiliates around Africa to boost his reach to the targeted audience. Get In Touch if you need my service | Email: [email protected]| Call/whatsapp: 0241 444 116 Or connect with me across social media handles, @Dklassgh

MUSIC EDUCATION

Music Royalties and Key Things you should Know

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Music Royalties

Music industry, where creativity meets commerce, the concept of takes center stage. are the financial lifeline that sustains artists, songwriters, and other stakeholders in the creation and dissemination of musical works.

Music royalties are payments made to the creators and rights holders of musical works for the use or exploitation of their compositions and recordings. These payments serve as a form of compensation for the intellectual property rights associated with music.

Types of Music Royalties

Mechanical Royalties: Paid to the songwriter and music publisher for the reproduction and distribution of recorded music. This includes sales of physical copies, digital downloads, and interactive streaming.

Performance Royalties: Generated when a musical work is publicly performed. This includes plays on radio, television, live performances, and streaming services. Performance royalties are typically split between the songwriter and the performing rights organization (PRO).

Sync Licensing Royalties: Paid for the use of music in synchronization with visual media, such as films, TV shows, commercials, and video games. Both the songwriter and the owner of the master recording receive compensation.

Print Music Royalties: About the reproduction and distribution of sheet music, print music royalties are paid to the songwriter and music publisher.

Distribution Mechanisms of Music Royalties

SESAC: A PRO that operates on a more selective membership basis, representing a diverse range of songwriters and publishers.

PRS for Music (Performing Right Society): A UK-based PRO that collects and distributes performance royalties to songwriters, composers, and publishers.

Mechanical Royalties Collection: Mechanical royalties are often collected and distributed through mechanical rights organizations, record labels, and digital distribution platforms

Digital Service Providers (DSPs) Streaming services, digital download platforms, and online music stores play a crucial role in the distribution of mechanical royalties. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music negotiate licenses with rights holders and pay mechanical royalties based on usage.

Sync Licensing Platforms: Sync licensing royalties are often facilitated through specialized platforms that connect music creators with opportunities in film, TV, advertising, and other visual media. These platforms handle licensing agreements and royalty payments.

Challenges in Music Royalties

Fair Compensation in the Streaming Era The shift from physical sales to streaming has raised concerns about the adequacy of compensation for artists and songwriters. The per-stream payment model, while allowing for widespread access, can result in relatively low payouts per play.

Complexity of Royalty Calculations: The intricacies of royalty calculations, especially in the digital landscape, can be complex. Determining fair compensation for the various rights holders involves navigating through different licensing agreements, territories, and payment structures.

Transparency Issues: Lack of transparency in the distribution of royalties has been a persistent challenge. Many artists and songwriters find it difficult to track and understand how their royalties are calculated and distributed, particularly on streaming platforms.

Global Royalty Collection and Distribution: The international nature of the music industry introduces challenges in global royalty collection and distribution. Different PROs, laws, and licensing practices across countries contribute to a fragmented system that can hinder efficient compensation.

Unclaimed Royalties: A significant portion of royalties remains unclaimed or undistributed due to various reasons, including outdated data, incomplete metadata, and difficulties in identifying and locating rights holders.

Opportunities and Innovations in Music Royalties

Blockchain Technology: Blockchain has the potential to address transparency issues in royalty distribution. Smart contracts on a blockchain could automate royalty payments, ensuring a more transparent and efficient system.

Decentralized Music Platforms: Decentralized platforms powered by blockchain technology aim to empower artists by providing direct and transparent connections between creators and their fans. These platforms often incorporate cryptocurrencies to facilitate direct payments

Direct Artist-Brand Collaborations: Artists have the opportunity to collaborate directly with brands and companies, creating bespoke music for advertising and marketing campaigns. This direct collaboration can lead to additional revenue streams beyond traditional royalty channels.

The emergence of NFTs: Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have entered the music industry, offering a new way to tokenize and trade digital assets, including exclusive music releases, concert experiences, and ownership of unique compositions. NFTs can provide a direct-to-fan revenue stream.

The Evolving Landscape of Music Royalties

Streaming Platforms and Subscription Models: Streaming platforms continue to dominate the music consumption landscape. The subscription model, where users pay a monthly fee for unlimited access to music, has become a primary revenue driver for the industry.

User-Generated Content Platforms: Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram have become influential in music discovery and promotion. However, the complex nature of royalty payments on user-generated content platforms remains a challenge.

Podcasting and Audio Content: The rise of podcasts and audio content platforms presents new opportunities for music licensing and royalty generation. Musicians can explore licensing their music for use in podcasts, audiobooks, and other non-traditional audio formats.

Live Streaming and Virtual Concerts: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of live streaming and virtual concerts. While offering a substitute for in-person performances, these platforms also raise questions about equitable compensation for virtual events.

Global Collaboration and Cultural Fusion: The digital era enables global collaboration among artists from different cultural backgrounds. This cultural fusion not only enriches musical diversity but also presents opportunities for cross-border royalty generation and distribution.

Music royalties form the heartbeat of the music industry, ensuring that the creators and rights holders are compensated for their artistic contributions. As the industry continues to evolve, driven by technological advancements, changes in consumer behavior, and new business models, the landscape of music royalties undergoes a transformative symphony.

While challenges persist, opportunities for innovation and disruption abound. From blockchain solutions to NFTs, decentralized platforms, and the continued growth of streaming, the music industry is navigating uncharted territories. The future of music royalties holds the promise of a more transparent, equitable, and artist-centric ecosystem where the melody of compensation harmonizes with the ever-changing rhythms of the digital age.

Source : Dklassgh.Com

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MUSIC EDUCATION

Scholarships for Music Majors in 2023: Financial Opportunities to Enhance Your Skills

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Scholarships for Music Education Majors

Music scholarships help to alleviate the financial obligations that individuals incur when pursuing higher education. The awards are given to talented and hardworking students studying performing arts, especially music and instrumentalists. Getting these offers is a huge privilege that many individuals wish to have. 

If you’re looking for ways or a place to nurture or improve your music skills, our list of top musical scholarships will help you get a high-quality education and achieve your career goals.

How to Get Scholarships for Music Education Majors

Check out some of the most effective approaches to help you secure a music scholarship in 2023.

  1. Strive to be the best

The top secret to increase your chances of securing a scholarship is giving your best. Everyone applying for financial aid is probably doing everything within their means to snatch the opportunity. Therefore, no matter how busy you are, it’s always a good idea to work harder. 

  1. Focus on your strengths

Every scholarship opportunity you apply for has many other interested candidates. Since you’re competing with other individuals with different skills and abilities, you should focus on your strengths to stand out from the rest. 

  1. Apply for many opportunities

The more scholarships you apply for, the higher your chances of being selected. Some offers have a strict eligibility criterion, while others have simple and straightforward guidelines and requirements. So, it would be best to apply for as many awards as possible.

Getting a college degree is quite demanding; however, seeking help from a reliable essay writing service can make it easier. As someone interested in learning skills to enhance your music career, cooperating with professional essay writers from CustomWritings can make your academic journey less stressful. The service has competent writers who can help you write your assignments on time and deliver quality papers 24/7.

Top Scholarships for Music Majors 2023

Check out our compilation of music majors scholarships with new opportunities in 2023.

1. Mario Lanza Institute Scholarship

Mario Lanza Institute offers one of the best scholarships for music majors. The offer varies between $1,000 to $2,500. To be eligible for this scholarship, you must be aged 21 to 28. In addition, you should have a music or vocal background.

In its 61 years of existence, Mario Lanza Institute has helped more than 200 aspiring singers from the United States and other foreign countries. If you’re seeking a place to help lay the foundation for your career in music, particularly vocal performance, this is your ideal opportunity. 

2. MusicFest Canada Scholarship

MusicFest Canada Scholarship has helped improve the Canadian music industry by providing financial support to high school students interested in pursuing jazz careers. The program aims to motivate the younger generation of composers and vocalists to enhance their creativity and ideas by rewarding efforts for exceptional compositions. In addition, it intends to improve the participants’ professional potential.  Besides helping students acquire tips and knowledge to enhance their music performance, this initiative offers publishing and mentorship opportunities for professional growth.

3. YoungArts

YoungArts is one of the most supportive music scholarships for youths. The program, supported by the National YoungArts Foundation, offers financial support amounting to $10,000. To be eligible for this scholarship, one must be a dedicated performing artist between 15 and 18 years. The initiative also helps individuals to get unique mentorship from some of the most accomplished artists in the music industry. So, if you’re looking for ways to navigate a career in theater arts, this is an ideal opportunity to get you started. 

4. Taylor Swift 1989 Scholarship

Taylor Swift 1989 is one of the popular music scholarships for non music majors. The program aims to make higher education more affordable and accessible to students as they prepare for their careers. The good thing about this scholarship is that it doesn’t have a strict eligibility criterion; all learners are eligible.

5. Alys Robinson Stephens Scholarship

The scholarship, worth $1,000, is offered by the University of Alabama at Birmingham. It was mainly established to help high school students planning to enroll in the institution. To be eligible for the prestigious Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts award program, one must be a high school graduate with exceptional academic results.

6. Arkansas State University Band Scholarships

Arkansas State University offers one of the best band scholarships for music students; the program is considered the most sought-after opportunity in Mid-South. All eligible students, whether music or non-music majors, receive financial aid worth $5,000 annually.

Students interested in the offer must complete and submit the A-State Music Audition & Scholarship application form to schedule a day for their audition. In addition, the university offers instrumental scholarship opportunities for learners who play in Basketball Pep Bands. 

7. The Violin Society of America (VSA) Scholarship program

The VSA offers violin scholarships for qualifying students in the United States of America, Mexico, and Canada. The program targets learners who’ve mastered the art of bow making and violin. To be eligible, you must have completed at least one academic year in the learning program and have financial need. Furthermore, you must have shown interest in music compositions, orchestra, serious effort, future promise, and talent.

8. The Miranda Scholarship

The Miranda Scholarship is a Rhode Island College program that supports undergraduate students pursuing performing arts. The offer ranges between $3000 and $ 5,000. The award mainly targets college juniors and seniors passionate about theater, dance, and music composition.

9. CollegeXpress No-Essay Scholarship for Piano

If you’re looking for a learning experience to nurture your skills in performing arts, CollegeXpress is your ideal solution. The CampusReel program, ranked among the best and easily accessible piano scholarships, offers students financial assistance in pursuit of their music careers. Learners who register with CampusReel automatically enroll in the $1000 scholarship, which doesn’t require them to show their writing skills. 

10. College of Wooster Music Scholarships

College of Wooster is among the popular learning institutions offering singing scholarships in 2023. The offer is awarded to first-year students enrolling in the university based on their music performance skills. Interested candidates are expected to attend the auditions and an introductory session hosted before the auditions.

Discover your potential with scholarship opportunities

Pursuing a college degree can be costly for most individuals. Unlike psychology, law, nursing, and business students, music majors incur additional expenses like purchasing instruments, repairs, and regular maintenance. Luckily, the best high school seniors with exceptional academic results can get financial support from university scholarships and other aids offered by institutions of higher learning. This report has outlined top scholarships for music education that can help scholars achieve their goals and tips to increase the chances of securing one. Hopefully, it will help you jumpstart your career.   

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MUSIC EDUCATION

Bachelor Programs In Music 2023

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Bachelor Programs In Music

There has been a recent uptick in the number of applicants to bachelor’s degree music programs. Universities are better than ever before at supplying the highly qualified musicians and educators the world desperately needs.


However, prospective students may find it difficult to narrow down their options to just one degree. This article provides a high-level summary of some of the best Bachelor in music programs for 2023, including what they have to offer and what they demand.

We’ll also discuss how potential students can choose the best program for their needs and career aspirations. Considering cost, curriculum, faculty quality, extracurriculars, and job placement opportunities, students can make informed decisions that will set them up for success throughout their college experience and beyond.


To increase your chances of getting a scholarship, consider contacting an essay writing service like https://essayshark.com/. Expert writers will write your excellent admission essay and solid personal statement to significantly increase your chances of successful admission.

University of Pécs (BA In Classical Music Performance)


Aspiring classical music performers often yearn to explore the world of sound and create
beautiful melodies that can touch hearts. The Bachelor’s Degree in Classical Music Performance (Piano) is a rigorous, comprehensive program designed to equip aspiring musicians with the necessary practice techniques, academic requirements, and career paths to achieve their goals.

With this degree, students learn about the history of classical music and its performance practices and develop an understanding of cultural nuances between various musical styles. Through solo piano performances and ensemble work, they will gain valuable experience performing for audiences.

In addition to becoming proficient in sight-reading and improvisation techniques, students also have access to specialized instruction in rhythm studies, harmony theory, and more. As part of their journey towards mastery of the instrument, graduates are prepared to take up leadership roles within orchestras or choirs, expand their knowledge base by taking on further study at the master’s level, or pursue other related avenues such as teaching or conducting.


Explore the scholarship: scholarship link

Macromedia University Of Applied Sciences (Music Management)


The field of music management is taught in more depth at Macromedia University of AppliedSciences. Working with musicians, producers, and record labels from a creative and
business perspective is the main focus of this curriculum. Everything from promoting artists
to negotiating contracts to copyright law to event planning is in there.


Graduates armed with this information will be better able to strategize their projects for maximum success in the cutthroat music industry. Internships and externships with big media corporations and indie record labels are also available to Bachelor’s degree students.


Gaining practical experience is crucial to gaining expertise in a field since it enables one to
see how things really work on a daily basis. Graduates of Macromedia University are fully
equipped to succeed professionally in today’s dynamic music industry since they have
developed their talents both in and out of the classroom.

Explore the scholarship: scholarship link

Carroll University (Bachelor In Music)

At Macromedia University of Applied Sciences, there are courses designed to help learners gain an understanding and appreciation for the modern music industry. You can expect to learn about composition techniques, audio production, and other aspects of the business side of music.

For those looking for a more comprehensive education in music, Carroll University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Music that is perfect for students who want to pursue a double major or another field of study alongside their studies in music.

Their curriculum covers songwriting, studio recording, live performance, and delving into topics such as music theory, history, and culture. The university also has special scholarships available for students interested in studying music.

Whether you’re passionate about performing on stage or behind the scenes at a recording studio, Carroll University’s Bachelor of Arts in Music program will give you the tools to make your dreams of working in the music industry come true.

Explore the scholarship: scholarship link

Longy School Of Music Of Bard College (Undergraduate Diploma/Bachelor In Music)

Have you ever wanted to pursue an undergraduate music program? Longy School of Music of Bard College offers two distinct options: the Undergraduate Diploma (UD) and the Bachelor of Music (BM). Both programs are designed with aspiring musicians in mind; they provide ample opportunity for students to grow as performers and composers. So, what sets them apart?


The UD is a three-year intensive program that allows students to work alongside graduate students and professional musicians in ensembles, performance courses, and repertory courses.

This curriculum focuses on providing a comprehensive education in:
● Music Education: learning from experienced artists how to teach music to others
● Music Theory: developing essential musical skills such as notation reading and
composition techniques
● Music History: exploring different periods, genres, and styles that have shaped our
current understanding of music.


On the other hand, the BM degree can be earned through Emerson College’s joint program with Longy. In addition to meeting all requirements set by Longy’s Undergraduate Diploma program, this option also provides access to liberal arts credits at Emerson while benefiting from both institutions’ resources—such as alum networks and career services—setting up graduates for success after graduation.


Ultimately, it comes down to deciding which route best suits your academic needs.

Explore the scholarship: scholarship link


Fresenius University Of Applied Sciences (BA Music Management)


The Bachelor of Arts in Music Management curriculum at Fresenius University of Applied Sciences is extensive, encompassing both modern and classical music education and practice.

In order to make it in the highly competitive field of music production and promotion, you will learn how to apply what you know to the business and marketing methods of the industry. The financial aspects of the sector, such as budgeting and securing funding, will also be covered in detail.

With this degree, you can choose between different thematic focuses and elective modules
to tailor your studies according to your interests and career goals. Whether you decide to graduate after six semesters or take an extra semester with an internship and additional courses, you will surely get a well-rounded education that prepares you for success in the ever-changing landscape of the music business.

Explore the scholarship: scholarship link

Conclusion

There are several bachelor’s degree programs available in the music industry due to its size and growth. Choosing the best solution from the many possibilities accessible in the year 2023 might be challenging. To increase your chances of successful admission, consider hiring an online essay writer.


Do you seek a rigorous course in classical performance? Or do you want to learn more about the business side of music in general? It all boils down to figuring out which option is best for you.


A bachelor’s degree in music will provide you with transferable talents that will serve you well no matter what path you choose to follow. Why not investigate the prospects and see where a music degree may take you? It’s important to remember that doing what you love should never seem like work.

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