University of St. Thomas

When asked what one word best describes the music business major at St. Thomas, a faculty member replied, “cutting-edge.”

A real student asks:

 

How is music business different from other business majors?

A music business faculty member responds: The music business program is a unique combination of courses in music and in business.  The concept behind the music business degree is to prepare students for jobs in the music industry by providing them with the fundamental understanding of music performance, theory and history, and trends in music along with the core business courses, which combined will allow students to successfully work with musicians and business people alike.

What jobs are possible with a Music Business major?

What are recent graduates doing now?

Steve Brosvik ’93, is CEO of Houston Symphony Orchestra. Brosvik was always actively involved in music as a pianist but had a passion for business.

What opportunities are there to bolster my resume while I'm in the program?

Internships. We have internships that span the country, with many in the twin cities. Because here more money is spent per capita on the arts than in any other city in the United States, there is a thriving arts business community near St. Thomas that provides many opportunities for internships. Listed below are just a few examples.

Josh Schwalbach ’07 and Erik Johnson ‘08, Minnesota Orchestra (Minneapolis), worked in artistic planning, specifically The Composer Institute, and marketing. Johnson also interned at In the Groove Music, working on jingle and advertising music.
Joe Kerber ’08, Tinderbox Music Promotions (Minneapolis), contacted college radio stations around the country promoting Tinderbox's clients.
Jon Redwine ’08, Capital Records (Los Angeles), worked in artistic administration, production and artist development.
Molly Sagerhorn ’07, Pachyderm Studios (Cannon Falls, MN), worked in database development, new label launch, promotion and distribution.
Leslee Aune ’06, Clear Channel (Minneapolis), worked on radio promotions for several stations.

Study abroad. A great percentage of our students studies abroad. They tend to go to a number of different places that UST offers. Global exposure certainly enhances every student’s perspective on the working world, and in music business, international experience helps students get a better understanding of music’s effect outside of the United States.

Faculty at work

Our faculty consists of international conductors and performers appearing as guest artists in countries across Europe, the United Kingdom, South America, China, Japan and Australia. Our faculty also has delivered papers nationally and internationally, sometimes appearing as headline speakers at major scholarly conferences. Faculty members who teach in our music business program are immersed in local professional organizations and have key ties to influential local and national art organizations and businesses.