Developing a career in music requires more than just talent; it demands practical experience and a deep understanding of the industry’s technical and business aspects. Aspiring artists and producers need opportunities to create, record, and promote their work in real-world scenarios. Recognizing this need, the University of the Pacific has launched an innovative initiative that bridges the gap between classroom theory and professional practice.
Connecting Classroom Theory with Professional Practice
The Conservatory of Music at the University of the Pacific has introduced the Tiny Office Concert series, a student-focused project designed to provide hands-on experience in music production and promotion. Inspired by the popular NPR Tiny Desk Concerts, this series serves as a collaborative platform for students, faculty, and staff. It transforms academic assignments into tangible assets for a student’s professional portfolio.
For students pursuing a degree in music, this initiative offers a critical pathway to understanding the complete lifecycle of a musical production, from performance to final release.
Inside the Tiny Office Concert Production Process
The series is more than just a performance showcase; it is a fully operational production pipeline integrated into a Recording Studio Production class. Under the guidance of Assistant Professor Andrew Mell, students are responsible for the entire technical process. This includes:
- Audio Recording: Capturing high-quality sound in a controlled environment.
- Sound Editing: Refining the raw audio to ensure clarity and impact.
- Mastering and Mixing: Balancing tracks and preparing the final audio for distribution.
Professor Mell emphasizes the value of this approach, noting that students gain essential skills by working collaboratively in a professional environment. This experience prepares them for the technical and collaborative demands of careers in the modern music industry. Once the audio is complete, the project moves to staff for video production, culminating in a shareable social media asset that highlights the student’s talent and technical proficiency.
Spotlight on Student Talent and Ambition
The Tiny Office Concert series provides a stage for a diverse range of musical styles, from electronic dance music to pop rock and jazz. The first featured artists demonstrate how the program supports varied career goals within the music industry.
Grace Govig: The Future Festival Mogul
Grace Govig, a junior majoring in Music Industry Studies, exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit fostered at Pacific. As the university’s first official DJ, Govig has already gained significant practical experience by creating custom sets for athletic events, admitted student days, and university galas. Her career goal is to work in live event coordination and production, with a long-term vision of creating a community-driven music festival. The Tiny Office Concert series allows her to showcase her unique mixing style while building a portfolio that supports her professional aspirations.
Miller, Campbell, and Sturges: A Collaborative Force
The series also highlights collaborative acts like the trio of Amelia “Mia Estelle” Miller, Zalika “Zee” Campbell, and Zac Sturges. All three are Music Industry Studies majors with distinct career paths:
- Amelia Miller is an aspiring performing artist and songwriter with a passion for event planning. Her experience as a co-chair for the arts and entertainment initiative, where she booked major artists for campus events, gives her a unique edge.
- Zalika Campbell aims to manage large stages and own a venue, combining performance with business acumen.
- Zac Sturges is focused on becoming a studio recording engineer, leveraging the hands-on access to industry-standard equipment provided by his program.
These students leverage the university’s resources, such as the student-run Pac Ave Records and event planning opportunities, to build comprehensive resumes before they even graduate.
The Value of Hands-On Music Education
The Tiny Office Concert series at the University of the Pacific is a clear example of how modern music education must evolve. It moves beyond traditional lectures to offer a practical, project-based curriculum that mirrors the industry’s workflow. By integrating recording, production, and marketing into their studies, students are better equipped to navigate the complexities of the music business.
For prospective students and aspiring musicians, programs that offer these kinds of real-world applications are essential for building a successful career. Request information about the Conservatory of Music to learn more about how you can gain similar experience.
Conclusion: Building a Career, One Performance at a Time
Initiatives like the Tiny Office Concert series are vital for student musicians. They provide a structured environment to hone technical skills, collaborate with peers, and create professional-grade content. The series not only highlights the immense talent within the University of the Pacific but also underscores the institution’s commitment to providing an education that translates directly into career readiness. By the time students like Grace Govig and her peers graduate, they have more than a degree—they have a portfolio of real work and the confidence to succeed in a competitive industry.
Start your application today to become part of a program that values practical experience.
