This Month in Music
Welcome to a review of music for May - including playlists of released music, news in the industry, upcoming opportunities, and more!
Featured Episode: Amani Roberts - The Expert of Music Business (and making YOUR music your business)
If you're looking to learn more about how to take yourself seriously as a musician, create a brand and business around what you do, and want the steps to get to there, you will find your answers in this episode.
Amani Roberts is a coach for musicians, professor of music business, keynote speaker, global performer, renowned DJ, entrepreneur, and USA Today's best-selling author of "The Quiet Storm" and "DJs Mean Business". His experience in the hospitality and music industry have given him vast experience in how to make music writing a career, and he's passionate about helping others do the same.
Industry News
Spotify and Universal Music Group Announce Landmark Licensing Agreements for Fan-Made Covers and Remixes
Spotify is releasing a new paid add-on for premium users, allowing them to create remixes and covers of participating artists’ songs while still paying royalties to original artists and songwriters. Read more…
On a more positive note
Songwriter Ines Dunn, known for her work with Maisie Peters, argued that streaming, social media, and greater industry recognition have created more opportunities than ever for songwriters to build sustainable careers, despite ongoing challenges around compensation and visibility. Read more…
Daniel Harding named LA Philharmonic music director
Harding said he plans to build on the orchestra’s reputation for innovation and contemporary music while expanding its international profile. Read more…
Music Releases
Listen to the latest and greatest compositions that came out last month, including orchestral works, experimental music, film scores, and more.
Check out the custom playlists on your preferred platform:
Upcoming Opportunities:
US Naval Academy Band: Call for Scores
Deadline: August 31st
USNA is looking for new or recently composed works to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States, written for the Wind Ensemble, Brass Ensemble, or Brass Quintet.
Green Mountain Chamber Music Festival: Call for Scores
Deadline: June 15th
Apply for an opportunity to have your music performed around New York City.
New Music Engine: Opportunities
Multiple Deadlines
Search new competitions, call for scores, and more.
More Competitions
You can find more opportunities for composition competitions linked below.
*When entering competitions, make sure to research their veracity, reviews from past entrees, and get to know if it’s a legitimate organization.
This Month in History
Richard Wagner premieres Tristan und Isolde - June 10, 1865
Its opening contains what became known as the “Tristan chord.” Rather than resolving in a way you’d expect, the harmony creates a feeling of longing and tension. Wagner uses this musical uncertainty throughout the opera, mirroring the story’s themes of desire and obsession.
The goal with this newsletter is to bring you new opportunities, keep you in the loop of the music world, and help you feel inspired. If you have any feedback, questions, or other, feel free to respond!
Until next time,
Nadia