The Humbug and the Nightingale: What we can learn about music promotion from P. T. Barnum

In a brand new academic article published by Musical Quarterly, I tell the story of how P. T. Barnum used strategies of branding to create the most successful music tour of the 19th century. The singer he brought to America was Jenny Lind. Lind was already a star in Europe, but was relatively unknown in America before signing a contract with Barnum.

Barnum did something unprecedented:

Arts and Entrepreneurship, Music and BrandingMark SamplesJuly 28, 2017branding, musicology, music industry, music promotion, music professionals

How to Identify Potential Mentors, for Music Professionals

There are few resources in your career more valuable than a trusted mentor. In this post I will share with you:

What is a mentor, who needs one, and why?
Two short quizzes (one question each) that will give you my personalized recommendations for where to look for your next potential mentor, based on your career stage and situation.

Arts and Entrepreneurship, Productivity, Career DevelopmentMark SamplesJuly 12, 2017mentorship, mentors, music industry, music professionals, music teachers, smartcuts

Writing and Videos

There are few resources in your career more valuable than a trusted mentor. In this post I will share with you: