Innovative courses, industry partnerships and Music Row presence earn national recognition
Belmont's Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business has again earned recognition among Billboard magazine's "2024 Top Music Business Schools," joining an elite group of 45 institutions shaping the future of the music industry. This continued acknowledgment underscores Belmont's enduring commitment to excellence and reaffirms its position as a powerhouse in music business education.
"This recognition from Billboard reflects our unwavering commitment to equipping students for the ever-evolving music industry and its interconnected role within the entertainment ecosystem," said Dean Brittany Schaffer. "Belmont alumni have made substantial contributions to our industry and culture across all sectors of entertainment. We remain dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders, instilling in them the same passion and spirit of innovation that has defined our program for over 50 years."
Billboard spotlighted several key elements of Belmont's program, including its one-of-a-kind AACSB Bachelor of Business Administration degree and the innovative Belmont USA program, which offers students immersive semester-long experiences in major music markets, including Los Angeles, New York and Atlanta. The profile emphasized a new cutting-edge course, "Intro to the Creator Economy," taught by CAA executives Andrew Graham, head of digital corporate advisory and partnerships, and Chris Wittine, which prepares students for the future of digital content monetization.
Billboard's profile noted Belmont's historic expansion of "Belmont on Music Row," announced during the "Belmont at the Opry" celebration in April. This initiative further strengthens Belmont's presence in the heart of Nashville's music industry, providing students with unparalleled access to industry professionals and real-world learning experiences. Additionally, at the "24/7 | Mental Health and Entertainment" conference, Belmont announced its intent to launch the Center for Mental Health and Entertainment, addressing a critical need in the industry and demonstrating the University's commitment to the holistic well-being of future entertainment professionals.
"Our goal is not only to educate students about the current landscape of the music business but also to empower them to shape the future of the industry and to equip them with the skills to thrive and succeed. With our expansion on Music Row, we are reinforcing our presence in and commitment to Nashville's thriving music industry and collaborative community. This recognition from Billboard affirms our dedication to continually evolving our program to meet the needs of tomorrow's music industry leaders."
Another notable offering that has come to define the University’s music business legacy and commitment to experiential learning is the Belmont Showcase Series. Students plan and execute five arena-sized showcases, two writers' nights and an outdoor festival, gaining hands-on experience in every aspect of live entertainment production. Students receive real-world professional experience in collaboration with production partners Bandit Lites, Clair Global, Media Visions and Orange Thread, who ensure world-class production standards, while industry judges from CAA, WME, ASCAP, BMI and major record labels, publishers and managers evaluate performances throughout the year.
The Curb College continues to innovate through courses taught by active industry professionals. New classes reflect the program's commitment to both future industry trends and student well-being, including "Prehab: Prep for the Artist Life," taught by Porter's Call founder Al Andrews; "Entertainment Wellness & Development," taught by Cristi Williams; "AI in the Entertainment Industry," taught by recording artist Jason McKinney; and "Intro to Music Rights & Policy," taught by EVP and general counsel of Digital Media Association Colin Rushing. These courses complement Billboard-highlighted offerings like "Intro to the Creator Economy," ensuring students receive comprehensive instruction from leaders actively shaping the industry.
As Belmont's Curb College looks toward the future, it remains committed to its founding vision: creating a pathway for well-rounded, innovative professionals who will continue to drive the music industry forward. With the College's expansion on Music Row and the forthcoming Center for Mental Health and Entertainment, Belmont continues to lead the way in comprehensive, forward-thinking music business education.
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Learn more about Belmont University's renowned music business program.