The Music Consultant.

It is not unusual to meet individuals who describe themselves as music consultants but what does their work involve? As a vague description of an occupation, it can be difficult to determine what they do, however, it is likely that they have expertise in one or more areas of the music industry. What are the typical roles and responsibilities of a music consultant?

Anyone who describes themselves as a music consultant probably has extensive experience in the industry with a set of skills that are in demand. They will have a wide network of contacts and are able to effectively communicate to all types of individuals. In addition, they may have creative insight into trends as well as understanding licensing, business and legal matters. Music consultants could be self-employed or work full time for a variety of organisations that may include artists, record labels, event organisers, advertising agencies or media producers for example. 

Artist Management and Development. 
There are plenty of artist management companies in existence but when they take on a new client it may be prudent to employ a consultant to bring insight and specialist knowledge about unknown genres for example. The consult can guide the artist on their career development and creative direction to maximise impact and longevity. With an extensive network the consultant will be able to connect the artist to producers, record labels and event organisers too. 

Recording and Production. 
A consultant should have a wide network of producers and engineers, and a good understanding of which ones can extract the best work from any particular artist. The consultant’s role is also to manage the financial aspects of any recording and production project because costs can quickly escalate without any quality material resulting. After the initial recording the consultant should oversee the mixing and mastering process to ensure that the final result is high quality and at an acceptable industry standard. 

Event Management and Tours. 
Music consultants can sometimes be sought after by festival organisers, venues and touring artists if they have extensive experience in event management. These roles are usually on a specified time contract that last from planning and promotion through to implementation. Their responsibilities may involve planning, artist curation and operational logistics depending on the type of event. The key for event management is a full understanding of the business and financial aspects along with meticulous budget management. 

Marketing and Promotion. 
Although many organisations may prefer to employ marketing and advertising agencies or specialists to conduct their promotional activities sometimes there is a deeper requirement for specific industry insight. Although a music consultant will generally have wide industry experience only a handful will understand the intricacies of running marketing and advertising campaigns. It is more likely they will be asked to work in collaboration with a more traditional marketing specialist to add music industry knowledge into the mix. 

Licensing and legal. 
Business acumen is an essential skill of the music consultant along with a broad understanding of copyright registration and enforcement and licensing agreements. Consultants working with media and film companies can offer advice on selection of music and the possible licensing implications following up with negotiating favourable terms. 

Although the music consultant may appear as a vague title is can cover a multitude of skills and responsibilities and is probably appropriate where an individual has wide experience that can be applied to multiple situations. 

For festival organisers planning their events using a software management platform like Festival Pro gives them all the functionality they need manage every aspect of their event logistics. The guys who are responsible for this software have been in the front line of event management for many years and the features are built from that experience and are performance artists themselves. The Festival Pro platform is easy to use and has comprehensive features with specific modules for managing artists, contractors, venues/stages, vendors, volunteers, sponsors, guestlists, ticketing, cashless payments and contactless ordering.

Image by OmarMedinaFilms via Pixabay

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