Don't see what you're looking for?
For media inquiries, please contact Media Relations
Don Gorder, chair and founder of the Music Business/Management Department at Berklee, is an attorney, educator, and musician. He holds advanced degrees in law and music, has authored numerous articles on the music industry, and has spoken at many national and international music industry events. As an attorney, he has represented clients in matters of copyright and contracts, and he remains active as a trumpet player in a variety of jazz and commercial settings.
Gorder is vice president of the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Affiliated Music Business Institutions, a past officer and board member of the Music and Entertainment Industry Educators' Association, and currently sits on the Board of Trustees of the Massachusetts Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts. He is active in the National Association of Recording Merchandisers (NARM), and the International Association for Jazz Education, where he is a member of the resource team, representing music business/management.
"All musicians need to know that music and business are symbiotic. Neither can exist successfully without the other. If music is to have an impact on society, the creative and business communities must learn to communicate with each other."
"A good manager frees musicians to do what they do best—create and make music—and also relieves musicians from handling the business matters that keep the career moving forward. Even those musicians who are blessed with good business sense often find that there aren't enough hours in the day to do it all well."
"Music Business/Management students fall into two general categories: those who want to work in the industry, whether corporate or as entrepreneurs; and those who want to remain wholly on the creative side, but recognize that a background in business is not only helpful, it's necessary."
"Two major goals have driven the development of the Music Business/Management Department: to offer a curriculum that addresses the current and future needs of our students and of the industry. And to attract faculty who are committed to the program and have the background and experience to deliver the curriculum."
"Berklee's core curriculum of harmony, ear training, etc., contributes to the music business/management major's lifelong enjoyment of music. No matter how far our students go in the business realm, being able to relate to music as musicians will add much to their lives. Personally, my musical experience has enhanced my understanding of the tension points in the art/commerce dichotomy, and how to soften the conflict."
"I like the environment at Berklee. It's a fast-paced music industry microcosm, full of interesting, talented people—students, faculty, and staff. In 15 years, I've never been bored."
By requesting information from Berklee, you will receive emails about our educational programs, student resources, facilities, and more based on your selections.
Check your inbox for an email from Berklee. You will start to receive program information, updates, and deadline reminders.
Find the program that's right for you with Berklee's Find Your Program tool.