Professional Music ‘BPM Industry Night’ event connects students with top industry professionals
Top music industry professionals met with students at the BPM Industry Night hosted by the Professional Music program on February 29. Executives from Loft Entertainment, Anthem Entertainment, Canadian Music Week, SOCAN, Women In Music Canada, and Billboard Canada connected with students pursuing careers in the field. The interdisciplinary program offered by The Creative School prepares students for a rewarding career as a professional in the music industry.
Industry professionals participated in a panel discussion about working in music
The event opened with a performance of original music from second-year student Liam Hao, followed by a panel discussion surrounding topics such as personal branding as a creative, diversifying skill sets, and breaking into the creative industries. Students gained valuable insight into the music industry through conversation and storytelling while networking among industry leaders. A performance of original music by second-year student Lostsoffical concluded the evening.
“Performing at the event was so meaningful to me, not only because it was my first time performing in our program, but also because I got to learn and get advice from the industry pros, with encouragement from everyone that night,” said Hao.
Second-year student Liam Hao performed an original piece to kick off the event
This experience is important because it creates a space for industry leaders to be introduced and welcomed into the Professional Music community and for the students to learn and network with these leaders and their respected organizations.
Bridging the classroom with the industry
Professional Music is a one-of-a-kind program in Canada that inspires talent, enhances creativity and equips emerging artists and non-artists with the skills and experience needed to excel in the modern music industry. Located in the heart of Canada’s music sector, the Professional Music program is a place for students to gain experience in music fundamentals, business essentials, and studio and live production to refine their passion.
“We want to ensure students in the program have access to networks and knowledge to develop and initiate their careers in the industry,” expressed program director Charlie Wall-Andrews. “Whether as an artist, industry professional, or both.”
Professional Music students gaining insight into the music industry through the Industry Leader panel
Professional Music students chat with panellists during the networking portion of the night
Students had the opportunity to network with a robust range of industry professionals and build connections that will be invaluable to their careers upon graduation. Wall-Andrews explains that the opportunity is mutually beneficial to students and industry professionals alike.
Amy Kisser was one of the students who attended the event. For Kisser, the occasion offered opportunities to connect with key players in the field.
“Industry Insights was valuable because it allowed me to not only listen to some large industry players give their insights and knowledge on current industry topics, but it allowed me to speak one-on-one with these players and to connect with them,” said Kisser. “These kinds of hands-on opportunities are exactly why I chose Professional Music over any other program in the country.”
To keep up with Professional Music events and future opportunities, follow their Instagram (external link) .
The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University
The Creative School is a dynamic faculty that is making a difference in new, unexplored ways. Made up of Canada’s top professional schools and transdisciplinary hubs in media, communication, design and cultural industries, The Creative School offers students an unparalleled global experience in the heart of downtown Toronto.