Alexa Furuta, “Music Unmasked: Discovering the Essential Components to a Career as a Musician in the Local Milwaukee Scene”
Mentor: Colleen Brooks, Music
Poster #18
The path to a successful popular music career is not often clear. I study music, including Contemporary Commercial Music (CCM) repertoire at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM); however, while voice teachers are starting to teach the technique and style of CCM vocal music, there are currently no curriculum options to learn how to initiate and navigate a career in the CCM industry. Therefore, I began looking for trends in our Milwaukee community. This study explored the genesis and journey of popular music careers in Milwaukee. It answered the questions: how do local artists build and sustain their careers and what advice would they share with those who have a passion and drive to perform popular music? Popular music—in this context—refers to CCM, any genre of music that is in the “mainstream,” meaning pop, rock, country, rap, singer/songwriter, etc. Research was conducted through a series of 10 interviews. Interviews included nine musicians of varying music genres and experience levels and one venue owner. Interviewees were asked questions about their experiences and opinions regarding the following topics: skill set, life balance, networking, and budgeting. Interviews were recorded and edited into a short documentary-style video, highlighting points of note for each topic. Results showed that obtaining success in the Milwaukee CCM industry is heavily dependent on the drive to make connections, consistent promotion on social media, and a willingness to learn from others in the community. By studying the journeys of these artists, aspiring popular musicians can learn of invaluable tools and resources to help guide them down a smoother path to their own success in the Milwaukee area. In addition, study findings will help the UWM voice program better shape teaching and curriculum for current and future students interested in CCM performance careers.