How to become a music promotions manager
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- volunteering
- applying directly
University
Though not essential, you could do a course at university that would give you some of the skills and knowledge needed for this role. Relevant courses include:
- music business
- music industries and management
- business management
- marketing
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You may find it useful to do a course to get an insight into the promotions industry. Courses include:
- Level 2 Certificate in Music Business Marketing and Promotion
- Level 2 Certificate in Digital Promotion for Business
- Level 3 Diploma in Live Events and Promotion
Entry requirements
You may need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
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Apprenticeship
You could start by doing an events assistant advanced apprenticeship or a digital marketer advanced apprenticeship. With experience you may be able to get into junior or assistant music promotions manager jobs.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
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Volunteering
Practical experience is highly valued. To get this you could:
- find work placements with record companies or music public relations agencies
- organise and promote local gigs or festivals
- write gig reviews for local or student press, websites and social media
- volunteer with student or community radio
These activities will also allow you to build up a network of contacts, which will help when you look for paid work.
Direct Application
When applying for jobs or setting up on your own, you'll have an advantage if you can bring experience from related areas like sales and marketing, public relations or event organising.
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Career tips
A knowledge of basic accounts and contract law could be useful.
Further information
You can get more advice about working as a music promoter and promoting yourself through Musicians' Union.
You can also find information on working in the creative industries from Discover Creative Careers.