Billboard magazine names BW a top music business school

Baldwin Wallace University is featured in Billboard magazine's national list of the "2020 Top Music Business Schools," citing BW's innovative courses, industry connections and successful alumni.

Putting BW on the map

This is the first time BW has been recognized among Billboard's top tier universities, many located in music powerhouse metropolitan areas such as New York City, Los Angeles and Nashville.

According to Billboard, the "2020 Top Music Business Schools" list includes their "most expansive and geographically diverse" set of schools to date.

Both private and public institutions are featured on this list. Interestingly, Billboard notes, nearly 40% of recently profiled high-achieving music executives are graduates of a liberal arts program.

Industry expertise

BW is recognized for providing unique and meaningful educational opportunities for students, including the music festival and production course taught by Emily Hornack, co-founder and managing director of the Brite Winter Music & Arts Festival.

Additionally, students benefit from guest lectures by successful alumni, such as Hallie Yavitch '94, the former VP of booking for Quicken Loans Arena who was recently named VP of booking for Staples Center and Microsoft Theater in downtown Los Angeles.

Burgeoning BW programs

The BW Arts Management & Entrepreneurship program is thriving, with more than 70 students enrolled with the hopes of being future arts managers and graduates who are already engaged in successful careers in New York, Los Angeles, Cleveland and beyond.

This spring, the Conservatory of Music expanded its interdisciplinary offerings by adding a music industry major, creating another avenue for students to explore the business of music-making.

Both majors synthesize the expertise of faculty within the Conservatory of Music and School of Business, creating a robust learning experience for students.

"These two degree programs now offer complimentary instruction for the next generation of industry professionals," says Dr. Sean Murphy, music industry area coordinator and assistant professor of arts management & entrepreneurship.

Learning from local legends

BW hosts local music industry professionals as guest lecturers throughout the year. Students have the opportunity to gain area expertise while making meaningful industry connections early in their degree program.

This fall, Mike Shea, founder and CEO of Alternative Press, will be teaching a course on music industry trends and practices.

"Mike is a leader and innovator in the field and, lucky for us, a Clevelander who is super excited to be involved with us!" says professor Bryan Bowser, chair of the interdisciplinary studies department and program director for arts management & entrepreneurship.

Looking to the future

The continued success of the two programs ensures that BW remains a vital partner in the strong music industry based in the "Rock and Roll Capital of the World."

For Bowser, this accolade is all about paving the way for a bright future. "We hope these two degree programs at BW can help continue to grow Cleveland as a destination city for the music industry."