Five Musicians Self-Producing Their Creative Outputs
In the dynamic world of music, developing a versatile skill set is crucial for aspiring artists. A new degree program, the Music Production & Vocal Performance Degree, offers an exciting opportunity to hone skills in both music production and vocal performance, similar to artists such as Clairo, Tyler, The Creator, Yaeji, Dev Hynes (Blood Orange), and Skepta.
This unique program, available at various educational institutions, combines technical music production training with vocal performance, music theory, and industry knowledge. Here are some key pathways and program elements that align with the skills you want to develop:
1. Vocal Performance & Contemporary Voice Degrees For mastering vocal technique, performance, and musicality along with cultural and business aspects, consider programs like NYU Steinhardt’s **BM in Vocal Performance: Contemporary Voice**. This course blends voice training, live performance, movement, dance, and acting, covering rhythm and language in singing, vocal anatomy, and production skills, culminating in staged concerts. The curriculum includes courses on music history, theory, keyboard skills, hip-hop dance culture, concert management, and music technology electives, fostering a comprehensive understanding of contemporary music performance and business.
2. Music Production & Entrepreneurship Degrees To develop beat-making, producing, and music business skills, programs like Marywood University’s **BA in Music Production & Entrepreneurship** could be beneficial. This program offers extensive hands-on training in recording, producing, and mixing, incorporating emerging technologies like AI-driven composition and digital marketing strategies, preparing graduates to work as producers, sound designers, and independent artists with strong entrepreneurial capabilities.
3. Performance-Focused Bachelor of Music Programs Programs like University at Buffalo’s **Bachelor of Music in Performance (MusB)** focus on advanced musicianship, real-world performance experience, theory, history, and pedagogy. These programs often require senior recitals and ensemble participation, helping performers develop their craft and stage presence.
To gain skills like your favourite artists, it's recommended to:
- Learn music theory and composition fundamentals to create structured beats and melodies. - Master Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) such as Ableton Live, FL Studio, or Logic Pro, essential for beat-making and music production. - Take vocal lessons focusing on contemporary and expressive styles, working on vocal technique, breath control, diction, and performance dynamics. - Study songwriting and lyric composition, focusing on rhythm and language to craft compelling vocal lines and flows. - Explore music business courses to understand industry, marketing, and self-promotion, enabling you to navigate a modern music career independently. - Participate in live performances and recording workshops to build confidence and refine your sound. - Incorporate interdisciplinary activities like dance, acting, and movement to enhance stage presence and artistic expression.
Pursuing a degree or structured course that integrates both music production and vocal performance will equip you with the broad set of creative, technical, and professional skills needed to emulate artists like Clairo, Tyler, The Creator, Yaeji, Blood Orange, and Skepta.
If formal education is not immediately accessible, complement your studies with online tutorials, beat-making courses, vocal coaching, and consistent practice focused on the styles and techniques of these artists. The Music Production & Vocal Performance Degree program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to become self-sufficient artists.
The Music Production & Vocal Performance Degree program, intelligently blending music production training with vocal performance, music theory, and industry knowledge, aligns with education-and-self-development pathways that aspiring artists may find beneficial for honing skills in both music creation and vocal performance. To emulate artists like Clairo, Tyler, The Creator, Yaeji, Blood Orange, and Skepta, it's recommended to engage in self-study activities such as learning music theory, mastering Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), taking vocal lessons, studying songwriting and lyric composition, exploring music business courses, participating in live performances, and incorporating interdisciplinary activities, even when formal education may not be immediately accessible.
