5 Music Industry Mentorship Schemes You Need to Know About
In the fast-paced and ever-evolving music industry, mentorship is an invaluable asset that can completely transform the trajectory of your career. As one of the most sought-after industries to work in, it’s no surprise that it can feel like a minefield when trying to land your first professional role. After your twenty-third automated rejection email, it can almost feel like the end of the road. But that’s where you’re wrong. There are countless ways to enhance your CV to land you your dream role, but chances are, you’ve just not been introduced to them. Until now.
Research conducted by Women In Music and Berklee College of Music in 2019 discovered that women identified mentorship as a crucial factor for achieving success in the music industry. The study revealed that an overwhelming 92% of those who had access to mentors acknowledged its significant impact on their careers. However, the findings also highlighted a disparity. Only 61% of the respondents reported having experienced mentorship opportunities in their professional journeys.
Today, mentorship in the music industry is a growing trend. Nurturing new talent and inspiring growth for all involved, mentorship is a transformative relationship that encourages personal development, knowledge-sharing, improved confidence, and ultimately, shapes the next generation of musical pioneers and professionals.
To help you take your first steps into the industry, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite mentorship programmes accepting applications right now. And, if you’re an established practitioner who feels that they want to offer some time to helping an aspiring professional, you can sign up to become a mentor yourself!
Women In Music Mentorship Programme
Women in Music, founded in 1985, is a non-profit organization that promotes and enhances equality, visibility, and opportunities for women in the musical arts. Through various initiatives, including education, support, empowerment, and recognition, Women in Music strives to create a more inclusive and empowering environment for female practitioners in the industry.
The WIM Mentorship Programme is dedicated to empowering its members through professional development and leadership training. Its mission is to cultivate a diverse and inclusive community of individuals who are prepared to take on key decision-making roles that will one day transform the music industry. By doing so, they aim to make a positive impact not only within this industry but also the wider arts community and the world as a whole.
Learn more about the programme | Become a Mentor | Become a Mentee
The Ivors Academy
Did you know that there are also mentorship opportunities for musicians? The Ivors Academy membership offers a wealth of benefits and opportunities for individuals involved in music creation, including songwriters, composers, and producers. By becoming a member of The Ivors Academy, you join a prestigious community of industry professionals dedicated to championing the art and craft of music.
As a member, you gain access to a range of exclusive resources designed to support your creative journey. This includes networking opportunities with fellow members and industry leaders, allowing you to forge meaningful connections, collaborate on projects, and stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends.
Standard Membership costs £92 per year for those just embarking on their careers or experiencing growing levels of success, and for those aged 24 or younger, they have an Under 25 discounted Standard Membership, costing just £50 per year.
Learn more about the programme | Standard Membership | Under 25 Membership
Grammy U
If you’re a US-based college student with a dream to work in the recording industry after graduating, this one’s for you! Bridging the gap between college students and the industry’s most brilliant and accomplished individuals, GRAMMY U offers aspiring professionals the essential tools and opportunities to kickstart their music careers. With each new semester, a diverse range of events and special programmes are curated, covering all aspects of the music industry, from business and technology to the full creative process.
As an integral part of the Recording Academy’s mission to preserve and cultivate the vitality of the recorded arts as a cherished cultural legacy, GRAMMY U lays a solid foundation for the nurturing of the next generation of musical talent.
Learn more about Grammy U | Apply for the Grammy U Programme
She Is The Music
She Is the Music’s Mentorship Programme is a transformative initiative specifically crafted to empower women in the industry. This programme fosters a vibrant and inclusive community of like-minded women, with mentees having the opportunity to build lasting relationships, collaborate on projects, and share experiences. This supportive network becomes a powerful resource, offering encouragement, motivation, and a sense of belonging within the music industry.
In addition to mentorship and networking, the She Is the Music Mentorship Program equips participants with comprehensive career development opportunities. These include workshops, masterclasses, and panel discussions conducted by industry experts. Such events provide invaluable knowledge and practical skills, addressing various aspects of the music business and enhancing the professional growth
Learn more about She Is The Music | Become a Mentor
Turn Up Her Mic Mentorship Programme
Turn Up Her Mic is an organisation highlighting the experiences of professional female musicians working behind the scenes in the live music industry. The primary focus is on traditionally underrepresented career paths of touring and session female musicians, music directors, live crew, and more.
This is a mentorship programme for pre-professionals interested in a career in the live events industry, culminating in putting together a live show for an exciting artist performing at the Moroccan Lounge on August 8th. For this reason, this programme is only open to applicants in Los Angeles, USA.
Learn more about Turn Up Her Mic | Become a Mentee
For the music industry, mentorship is not merely a luxury but a necessity. It shapes aspiring musicians and industry professionals, providing them with the tools, guidance, and support needed to navigate the intricate paths of the music world. By embracing mentorship, both mentors and mentees contribute to the continued growth and vibrancy of the music industry, ensuring that the art form continues to thrive for generations to come.
