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A new initiative at Carnegie Hall, called The B-Side, aims to address the stark underrepresentation of people of color in music management and executive roles. This program focuses on empowering young individuals from diverse backgrounds by providing them with essential knowledge and skills pertinent to the music industry.
Launched in spring 2023, The B-Side allows participants to immerse themselves in various aspects of the industry, including contract negotiations, studio production, and marketing strategies. During a week-long intensive program, 40 trainees explored significant music venues and received hands-on training from professionals such as entertainment lawyers and seasoned musicians. This experience is designed to cultivate the next generation of music executives who reflect the diversity of the artists dominating the charts today.
Statistics underscore the need for such initiatives. A 2021 USC Annenberg study highlighted that, despite nearly half of popular musicians coming from underrepresented groups, leadership positions in major music companies are overwhelmingly held by white executives. The program aims to bridge this gap by not only offering technical training but also addressing broader issues of power, gender, and identity within the industry.
The curriculum of The B-Side extends beyond traditional music education. It prepares participants to navigate the complexities of the music business while fostering a deeper understanding of the systemic challenges faced by underrepresented groups. The program includes stipends to support participants and encourages family involvement to raise awareness of career opportunities in the creative sector.
The initial success of The B-Side is evident in the achievements of its participants. Many have already begun to make strides in their music careers, with one student releasing a debut single shortly after completing the program. Another leveraged connections made during the program to secure a position with a record label.
As The B-Side expands, it continues to provide vital resources and support to young people of color, helping to create a more equitable and diverse future in the music industry. Through these efforts, Carnegie Hall is not only transforming individual lives but also fostering a more inclusive environment within the broader music landscape.
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