Sony Music Group holds first Global Scholars conference

Launched in June 2022 with a call for applications, the initiative was designed to help educate the next generation of music leaders and provide scholarships for a diverse group of students around the world enrolled in music and music business-related fields of study at accredited colleges and universities.

The programme received applications from over 70 countries, and awarded 50 scholarships to students across all regions where Sony Music Group operates including Africa, Asia, Australia, Continental Europe, Latin/Iberia, New Zealand, North America and the United Kingdom.

According to Sony Music Group, all the beneficiaries showcase immense passion for music, and a commitment to pursuing a career in music and inspiring new opportunities for artists, songwriters, and composers.

During the conference in New York, the students participated in discussions about the music industry, listened to panels delving into the dynamic world of music marketing, engaged in interactive workshops and studio sessions, and much more.

The conference itinerary was packed with enriched programming and opportunities for the students to hear from – and network with – producers, songwriters, engineers and music professionals and leaders from across Sony Music Group . 

The students participated in discussions about the recent journey of the music industry, listened to panels delving into the dynamic world of music marketing, engaged in interactive workshops and studio sessions, and much more.

Commenting on the conference, Duncan Hunter Neale, a participant in the programme from Canada, said: “As a performing artist, the conference provided a fascinating look into the behind-the-scenes of the mainstream music industry.

The McGill University’s Schulich School of Music student added: “It was eye-opening hearing directly from the executives. My desire to pursue music professionally has always been strong, and the conference has solidified ideas that will contribute to furthering my career.”

Ye Won You who is studying music composition, production and film scoring at Berklee College of Music in the US said: “This conference has profoundly changed my musical goals and life. Seeing things I had only vaguely imagined has been incredibly inspiring. I was deeply moved by how everyone is dedicated to bringing music to life, and by the detailed and kind responses to our questions.”

“During the ‘Day in the Life at the Studio’ session, I gained a wealth of knowledge from Sony Music’s A&R and songwriters,” Maharsyalfath Izlubaid Qutub Maulasufa from President University in Indonesia said. “I can apply these lessons and insights to my career journey and navigate the industry more effectively. This experience has been profoundly inspiring in shaping my professional aspirations.”