The starting point for your thesis is that the boom of the Flemish music scene has negative side-effects. What are they?
The success of Flemish bands and musicians creates extreme expectations among an increasing group of young people. The digital revolution makes it easier to take the first steps: Everybody can put music online. But while musicians like to think of themselves as a group of friends, the world of professional musicians becomes more competitive. Musical talent is not enough; you need knowledge of the business side to make it. Meanwhile, the entrepreneurial aspects are often under-exposed in Flemish music education.

What does Flemish music education lack?
Students usually don’t acquire the necessary financial, judicial, social and practical skills to become entrepreneurs. They should learn basic accounting, their rights and duties, how to promote themselves and organise their affairs. Most of the 12 professional musicians I interviewed admit that they started music education with romantic notions of the musician’s life and feel their music schools did not prepare them enough for their professional future. The music academies and schools in turn explained that is difficult to keep students’ interest during the rare sessions that the business side is clarified. Sometimes the lecturers are too “rock’n’roll” themselves.

How can music academies best provide that necessary extra value?
Instead of a few lectures or workshops, the entrepreneurial courses should be part of the normal curriculum. Schools need to “train the trainers”, make the lecturers aware of the vital importance of business aspects and offer them specific training. I also recommend appointing active professional musicians and managers or regularly inviting them as guest lecturers to provide concrete experience.

What happens with your findings?
I have passed on my analysis to the Flemish culture minister, Joke Schauvliege, who is promoting entrepreneurial knowhow in culture education. After I graduate in the summer, I hope to start working in a supporting function for musicians.