B: Media and Other Roles

Question 1

Music Journalist/Blogger

Examples

Answer 1

writer, music critic, and music reviewer – full time, part-time, freelance

Question 2

Music Journalist

Responsibilities

Answer 2

1. Writing copy for publications in print or web – articles, reviews, biographies, research, - daily, weekly columns etc.
2. A staff writer (employed by a particular publication) or freelance (contributes to various publications)
3. Write articles and reviews for newspaper, music sections and the music press i.e. about artists concerts and albums
4. Conducts interviews (phone, face-to-face) and writes them up
5. Often receives demos from unsigned bands and goes to gigs then writes reviews
6. Attends shows, concerts and events
7. Listens to CD’s, online music, and new talent. Reviews new records or music products i.e. classical reviewer, rock writer, jazz writer etc.
8. Responsible to the editor of the publication

Question 3

Music Journalist

Skills

Answer 3

a) Communication/Networking skills
b) Excellent command of the written word
c) Creative flair
d) Inquiring nature/ Good time keeper
e) Knowledge about the field of music being covered
f) Enjoyment of music
g) Ability to work under pressure

Question 4

Broadcaster - TV/Radio

Examples

Answer 4

Radio producer, Program/Music director, Radio DJ, Video jockeys

Question 5

TV/Radio Broadcaster

Responsibilities

Answer 5

1. Selecting music for broadcast, programming, audience targeting, research, writing, editing
2. Interview artists
3. Select music for TV and radio show – Video jockey – music videos on TV
4. Present music show and discuss trends
5. Controls the overall style and content of a radio/TV programme – Radio Producer
6. Responsible for putting playlists together – in collaboration with DJ: Radio Producer
7. Playing songs on air – Radio DJ
8. Programme Director: selects the stations format and program and schedules the programs at times to suit the target audience – can also select music for the playlist. Responsible for hiring, supervising and firing DJ. Responsible to Station Manager or owner

Question 6

TV/Radio Broadcaster

Skills

Answer 6

a) Working knowledge of Radio broadcasting equipment/ procedures
b) In touch with audience listening tastes and trends to include area of broadcasting
c) Clear, confident speaking voice and pleasant appearance
d) Work as part of a team/supervise others
e) Ability to work long hours/unsociable hours
f) Project personality on air
g) Good time keeper

Question 7

Software Programmer/App Developer

Responsibilities

Answer 7

1. Writing and/or coding software products such as apps, programs, packages, files, podcasts
2. Writing music packages for distribution on line
3. Create apps, musical programmes: Sequencing (Logic, Garage band), notation software (Sibelius), Music games)
4. Up date the programme software regularly
5. Create computer programmes that assist musicians with their training (aural tests, music theory)
6. Usually commissioned and paid by an artists and their record label or a software music company

Question 8

Retail and Distribution

Responsibilities

Answer 8

1. Selling products to shops/music stores and on-line using retail techniques and skills
2. Moving CD’s from warehouse to retail outlets, logistics, selling via mail order through on-line stores
3. Sells on-line: iTunes, spotify, amazon
4. Shops: HMV, Virgin, music shops