How/ where does 1 learn to become a musician manager/ booking agent?

Question

I want to know about working for an agency (as opposed to running an agency). As well as if you are only representing one artist (as a friend) rather than a proffessional.

Answer 1

Most agencies, unless they are very small and really need agents, won't hire someone off the street as an agent. You'll have to start as an assistant somewhere in the office, probably, be it an administrative assistant in general or an assistant to an agent or something. I know a girl who wants to be a concert promoter and has been working for an agency in San Francisco to get her foot in the door, and she is working as an agent assistant helping monitor ticket counts, helping with processing contracts, and whatever else is required of her.

You can try to get right in without schooling, but it might be easier to do if you have some sort of college under your belt. Business or something, so they know you know how to handle the work and know your way around a computer and what not. You might want to consider taking some courses or even majoring in a music business program, which will give you a broader overview of the business; there are even some colleges and universities that have specific music industry concentrations (sound engineering, publishing, etc).

Good luck!

Answer 2

You learn management on the job. Booking agents have to be licensed employment agencies and you need some college and experience under a licensed agency to get your own license, plus a bond from the state.