Music Business Association (Music Biz) President James Donio has joined Monmouth University as an adjunct professor, where he will teach the “Applied Music Industry I: Introduction to the Music Business Ecosystem” course during the Fall 2014 semester. Drawing upon his more than 25 years of experience in the music business, Donio will provide students with an overview of the industry, highlight its diverse and evolving segments, and show how all facets of the business function.
Specific topics to be covered in the course include commerce and content players; the new world of radio, gaming, social media, apps, startups, and search engine optimization; creative and promotional partners such as artists, managers, and concert venues; utilizing metrics; popular-culture connections through branding, fashion, and philanthropy; music industry professional and trade groups; conferences, festivals, and award shows; and more.
“I could not be more excited to take on this new career adventure by becoming an adjunct professor at Monmouth University,” said Donio. “Monmouth has such a great reputation for academic excellence, and is one of the only schools in the U.S. that offers a concentration in the Music Industry. They have given me a unique opportunity to share my experience with students who are exploring their futures in the music business.”
“As a Music Biz member during my time at Universal Music Group and Warner Music Group, I have worked closely with James and been impressed by his knowledge of the industry,” said Joe Rapolla, chair of Monmouth University’s Department of Music and Theatre Arts.
“As the leader of a major music industry trade organization, James will bring a unique and practical perspective to our music industry curriculum, which is a tremendous value for our students,” Rapolla said. “There is no substitute for the real-world experience he brings as we continue to add relevant industry connections to our academic program. I’m looking forward to working with him as part of our team.”
“Applied Music Industry I: Introduction to the Music Business Ecosystem” held its first session on September 3 and will end on December 17.
Donio worked his way up through Music Biz since joining the organization 26 years ago as Director of Creative Services, assuming the top job in 2004. Prior to joining Music Biz, Donio held a variety of editorial, PR, and event-related positions for the Association of Information Systems Professionals (AISP), an international individual membership organization focused on the needs of office systems professionals. A Philadelphia native, Donio earned his bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Temple University.