On April 30th, Musicians Institute (MI) recently hosted a powerhouse panel discussion featuring three representatives from the legendary Warner Records. Ashley May, Alex Bellissimo, and Ben Farber brought their expertise to MI’s Concert Hall to chat with students about the ever-evolving landscape of streaming, revenue models, marketing strategies, and everything in between.

MI’s own Music Business program instructor, Ritch Esra, perfectly captured the essence of the evening with this insightful quote: “Today, the most valuable commodity in marketing music is not the size of your label or its power… Today the most valuable commodity of all…is the ability to get someone’s attention.”

The Warner Records team delved deep into the world of streaming, dissecting the latest trends and revenue models that are shaping the industry. Students gained valuable insights into how artists can leverage these platforms to build their fanbase and achieve sustainable success. The conversation also explored cutting-edge marketing techniques, equipping aspiring music professionals with the tools they need to navigate the dynamic world of music promotion.

This informative session wasn’t just about theory – it was about real-world experience. The Warner Records representatives shared insightful case studies and practical strategies, giving students a glimpse into the inner workings of a major label. The reps discussed their personal experience growing the careers of some of the biggest names in music right now, like Zach Bryan and Benson Boone.

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A big shoutout goes to MI’s Artist & Career Services team for consistently bringing the music industry directly to students. Events like this are invaluable, providing aspiring music professionals with a direct line of communication with industry veterans. By fostering connections and fostering knowledge exchange, MI is truly preparing students to hit the ground running upon graduation.

Were you lucky enough to attend this event? Share your key takeaways in the comments below! And for those who missed out, stay tuned for more exciting industry events at MI!


Musicians Institute is the leader in contemporary music education offering certificates to Masters degrees in programs spanning instrument performance, electronic production, music business, and everything in between.

For more information on all programs offered, please visit here: www.mi.edu/programs/

For more information on MI Online programs, please visit here: www.mi.edu/programs/mi-online/