20740109 - Music Economics and Finance in the Digital and AI Context

The course is designed for students interested in understanding music, entertainment, and digital culture, with a special focus on both classical and contemporary music. It is intended for students who want to understand not only the artistic dimension of music, but also monetary flows, the role of rights, the functioning of contracts, and the impact of streaming, platforms, and artificial intelligence on changing markets. The acquired skills enable students to: 1) start thinking in terms of economics regarding the topics covered in their study program; 2) understand the economic and financial context of music streaming, live concerts, social media, licensing, and agreements between artists, labels, and platforms; 3) understand the impact of AI on music.
teacher profile | teaching materials

Prerequisiti

To engage with the course effectively, students should have a basic knowledge of the contemporary music landscape, able to navigate popular, classical and opera. A genuine interest in the production, organisational and communication processes that drive the music industry is required, together with the ability to analyse and summarise different cases and materials. An aptitude for practical and project-based work is essential, since the course involves planning, budgeting and presenting assignments. Given the presence of international materials and terminology, a good command of English is desirable, as are basic digital skills for using online platforms and tools.

Core Documentation

A university course handout will be available free of charge for attending students

Attendance

Attendance is expected in person. Lessons take place regularly and last three hours each, organised into sessions that alternate theoretical analysis and practical work. Active participation is strongly recommended, as the course includes classroom exercises, opportunities to engage with industry professionals, and the guided development of a project. A university course handout is made available free of charge to attending students, complementing the materials presented during the lessons. Attendance is not formally compulsory for admission to the examination, but it supports the acquisition of the required practical skills and the proper completion of the course.

Type of evaluation

Assessment takes place through a traditional test, designed to verify knowledge of the processes that transform a creative idea into a professional project, of professional roles, production models and communication strategies in the music industry, as well as the role of digital platforms. The test assesses the critical and practical awareness the student has developed with respect to the music industry.