Brody Miller’s initial foray into higher education took an unexpected turn when their ambitions to become a lawyer led to disappointment.
The Coloradan started their college experience at George Washington University, but a lack of passion for legal studies soon became apparent.
Instead, Miller found more inspiration from the music world, particularly artists like Joan Jett.
“I wasn’t as passionate about anything else as I was about researching these artists and how they got to be where they are,” Miller reflected.
Their life took a pivotal turn when Miller stumbled upon a magazine article while in class.
“I just remember sitting in a class, and this Billboard article came up.
It was about the top music business schools in the country,” Miller recalled.
This discovery led them to consider a new direction by pursuing a music business degree at CU Denver’s College of Arts & Media.
Finding a Home in Music Business
After moving back to Colorado, Miller enrolled in CU Denver’s Music Business program, embracing a path that aligned more closely with their interests.
Today, they’re a successful manager working with notable artists such as Lucero, Dinosaur Jr., and Lou Hazel at the Denver-based firm 7S Management.
Miller’s experience exemplifies the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for a dynamic industry landscape.
CU Denver’s Music Business emphasis has earned respect for its comprehensive curriculum designed for students to thrive in the evolving music sector.
Managed by the Music & Entertainment Industry Studies (MEIS) Department, the program blends the study of Music Business with a Bachelor of Science in Music.
It covers vital areas like negotiating song placements, managing venues, and immersing students in entertainment law.
Storm Gloor, the Music Business Program Director, highlighted the program’s commitment to adaptation in a changing industry.
“We have been changing and shifting with the business and all in favor of our students being better prepared for the changing music industry,” Gloor said.
As revenue streams in the music industry have shifted from album sales to concerts and publishing, CU Denver continuously updates its courses to reflect these changes.
A Well-Rounded Education for Future Professionals
The curriculum’s well-rounded approach enables Music Business students to tailor their education to meet their aspirations, giving them the versatility to adapt to unexpected opportunities.
Gloor aptly described the program’s essence, saying, “We’re like the Justice League.
We cover all the bases.”
Graduates leave with a robust understanding of the industry, equipped with skills ranging from social media strategies to marketing tactics, combined with hands-on experience.
This unique blend distinguishes CU Denver graduates in a competitive job market.
Miller’s personal journey in the program underscores the importance of exploring one’s passions.
“Being able to explore what was inspiring to me was key.
It allowed me to authentically find my place in the music industry,” Miller explained.
While studying at CU Denver, which culminated in their graduation in 2014, Miller seized opportunities for practical experiences.
They benefitted from faculty support, earning credit for managing and coaching aspiring artist peers.
“I was an advisor for a couple of different singer-songwriter students one semester,” Miller noted.
Through weekly meetings, they set goals and timelines with the student artists, focusing on various projects such as CD releases and shows.
This hands-on opportunity exemplifies a core advantage of CU Denver’s Music Business program, which emphasizes active collaboration between students and artists.
Internship Opportunities that Change Lives
Miller’s exploration also led to a summer internship with Kill Rock Stars, an independent record label in Portland, Oregon, that is a crucial player in the Riot Grrrl movement.
This was particularly significant for Miller since the label was home to some of their favorite acts, such as Bikini Kill and Sleater-Kinney.
They felt that CU Denver supported their journey by allowing them to earn credit for this pivotal internship.
“I do really feel strongly that that was the steppingstone that set me on this path,” Miller asserted.
The skills and experiences gained during their education at CU Denver prepared them well for their role at Kill Rock Stars.
Miller specifically recalled the impact of Gloor’s marketing course, which provided them with practical skills they applied in the music industry.
From Kill Rock Stars, Miller transitioned to another noteworthy internship under the manager of the Denver band Devotchka.
This internship quickly evolved; Miller soon served as Devotchka’s day-to-day and tour manager.
Through these experiences, they eventually secured their current role at 7S Management.
Comprehensive Learning Beyond the Classroom
Recognizing that not all students can complete internships, CU Denver’s Music Business program offers other hands-on experiences.
The curriculum includes an internship and career planning class aimed at fostering essential soft skills necessary for success in the music industry.
Networking, personal branding, and effective communication are central themes of the program.
Additionally, various student organizations provide further opportunities for practical experience.
One notable initiative is a student-run internet radio station, which empowers attendees to learn business operations while reaching specific markets.
Gloor emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that employers increasingly seek individuals capable of working effectively in teams.
“Employers are looking more for people who can work effectively in a team and can collaborate well,” he remarked.
Such hands-on experiences, whether through student organizations or official internships, enrich students’ resumes and prepare them for industry demands.
CU Denver offers numerous avenues for music business students to build relevant skills and establish vital industry connections.
Through initiatives like Grammy U and the Music Industry Student Association (MISA), students forge relationships and gain practical experience that will serve them in their future careers.
In Conclusion
Ultimately, CU Denver stands out as a premier institution for aspiring music industry professionals.
The program equips students with the essential hard and soft skills needed for various roles within the field.
For Miller, a career in music management was unexpected but fulfilling.
“I did not go into CU Denver thinking I was going to be a manager.
But I came out of the program knowing that,” Miller concluded.
This story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the importance of aligning one’s passions with their career path.
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