A Bachelor of Music in performing arts management prepares students for careers careers in the multi-faceted and extensive industry embracing administration of not-for-profit arts organizations (symphony orchestra, opera, chamber music, dance, theatre), commercial music management (recording industry, artist representation, music publishing and distribution, product merchandising, concert promotion), music licensing, music entrepreneurship, music festival management, and related areas of cultural management and policy. In collaboration with the College of Business and The Theatre School, this program provides students a broad understanding of the performing arts industry, insight into the theories and principles associated with arts management, and a proficiency in the practical application of necessary business skills.
There are two distinct Performing Arts Management degrees, suited for students with specific backgrounds and career objectives.
- Bachelor of Music (BM) in Performing Arts Management, Minor in Business Administration
- Bachelor of Science (BS) in Performing Arts Management, Minor in Business Administration
Bachelor of Music (BM) in Performing Arts Management, Minor in Business Administration
In addition to the fundamental music curriculum in musicianship, private lessons, and ensemble requirements, those in the BM Performing Arts Management program undertake a core sequence of courses focused on the Performing Arts Management industry, as well as courses in Music Business, Music Publishing, Music Festival Management, Legal Issues in Music, and others.
Additionally, in cooperation with the Driehaus School of Business, students receive a minor in business administration taking courses in Finance, Marketing, Management, Accounting, Statistics, and Economics, among others.
A significant element to the Performing Arts Management Program is an experiential component in the form of Internships at any of the numerous approved companies or organizations. Internships have been completed at such places as Lyric Opera, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Grant Park Music Festival, Ravinia Festival, Aware Records, Metro Club, Old Town School of Folk Music, ASCAP, Steppenwolf Theatre, and many other arts organizations, music labels, venues and radio stations.
Admission to the BM Performing Arts Management Program is contingent upon a successful audition to the School of Music, interview with the program faculty, and submission of a writing sample. This program is suited for students interested in developing their music ability at the highest level and gaining the insight and skills necessary for a career in the music industry. Visit our Application Process page for more information
here.