High school students to learn the business of music
Tulane University and The Trombone Shorty Foundation are expanding their innovative partnership to teach talented New Orleans high school students much-needed music business savvy.
Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews mentors young musicians at Trombone Shorty Academy in Dixon Hall on the Tulane University uptown campus on April 17, 2013. (Photo by Erika Goldring)
“Growing up as a musician, at times I had to learn business lessons the hard way,” says Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews. “The Fredman Music Business Institute will make it easier on the next generation.”
The music business institute is made possible by the generosity of Andrew and Kerin Fredman, long-time Tulane supporters.
“We've been excited about Tulane's efforts to support the local community and its culture,” says Andrew Fredman, a 1984 Tulane graduate. “Providing students with strong mentorship and business acumen ensures a pathway to success. It's our hope that they will pursue their dreams and then follow in Troy's footsteps by giving back.”
Music business classes start in January 2014 and will cover a wide range of business topics, including recording, production, marketing and event organization. The final class project will allow students to be involved in production of the second-annual “Shorty Fest,” a benefit concert for the Trombone Shorty Foundation.
The business academy is the next logical step in the partnership between the New Orleans Center for the Gulf South, the Music Rising at Tulane initiative and the Trombone Shorty Foundation. The foundation launched the Trombone Shorty Academy in January to teach young performers to carry on the unique musical tradition and heritage of New Orleans and the Gulf South. Tulane artist-in-residence Donald Harrison Jr. is now serving as music director.
Combined with the existing music performance classes, the business academy is a “wonderful opportunity for our students to become well-rounded in all aspects of the industry,” says Bill Taylor, Trombone Shorty Foundation executive director.
Interviews for the Fredman Music Business Institute will take place in mid-December. Interested students should email The Trombone Shorty Foundation.
Mary Sparacello is a communications specialist in the Office of Development Communications.
