How to become
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.
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 college course to get an insight into the music promotions industry, for example:
- music business
- digital promotion for business
- events management
- T Level in Marketing
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
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Apprenticeship
You could start by doing an Event Assistant Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, or Multi-channel Marketer Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
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 label companies or public relations agencies, specialising in music
- 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 can 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.
With experience, you may be able to get into junior or assistant music promotions manager jobs.
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Career tips
This role can be wide ranging, working with a lot of different people. Good negotiating skills are key, alongside a basic knowledge of accounting, contract law and marketing.
Enthusiasm for music and different genres is essential.
Further information
You can get more advice about working as a music promoter and promoting yourself through the Musicians' Union.
You can also find information on different roles in the music industry from UK Music.