by Brian Bromberg & José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. In most artistic training — whether in music schools, production programs, or songwriting workshops — the focus rests squarely on creation. Artists are taught to compose, perform, produce, and polish. But in today’s digital-first landscape, the work doesn’t stop when [...]
by Eftihia Arkoudis, D.M.A., Thaddaeus Bourne, D.M.A., & José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. Success is a tricky beast. You work hard, climb the ladder—whether it’s made of corporate rungs or the wild vines of entrepreneurship—and suddenly, you’re the tallest poppy in the field. Cue the shears. This little phenomenon, [...]
by José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. Abstract This editorial argues that blending robust musicianship with business savvy in music education creates confident, adaptable pros who thrive in today’s creative arts economy, all while keeping it real. Keywords: musicianship, music business education, experiential learning, self-efficacy, digital tools Providing the Context [...]
By José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. Abstract This editorial celebrates the surge of creative entrepreneurs launching ventures in music, design, and innovation, while offering a practical toolkit to address their widespread lack of financial literacy—focusing on budgeting, investing, and decision-making—to ensure sustainable success. Keywords: financial literacy, creative entrepreneurs, budgeting, [...]
by José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. & Derris Lee, M.M. Three Keys to Impact In a recent conversation with a colleague, we stumbled onto a truth that’s been hiding in plain sight: access to resources—be it scholarships, community programs, or organizational support—isn’t the bottleneck we often assume it to [...]
by José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. Abstract This editorial explores the entrepreneurial spirit of classical composers, illustrating how figures like Beethoven, Mozart, and Liszt were not only musical innovators but also business strategists who shaped the industry through financial independence, audience engagement, and adaptability. By tracing the etymology of [...]
By José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D., and Andrew Wang Abstract This article examines how hip-hop pedagogy serves as an effective and inclusive alternative to traditional music education for neurodivergent students, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and dyslexia. By integrating rhythmic engagement, therapeutic songwriting, and [...]
By José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. Abstract This article explores innovative music education strategies for neurodivergent students, emphasizing Ruiz's POSSIBLE framework—a model that fosters leadership and entrepreneurial thinking through personalized, technology-driven, and community-supported music instruction. Drawing from research and firsthand experiences, it demonstrates how hip-hop, beat-making, and songwriting empower [...]
By Hannah Chuckas, José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D., Corey Burton, M.M. Abstract This article explores the evolving financial landscape of the music industry, analyzing how artists generate revenue through live performances, digital streaming, and merchandise sales while highlighting strategies for maximizing profitability and sustaining long-term careers. Keywords: music industry, [...]
by Emilie Park, José Valentino Ruiz, & Corey Burton Abstract This article explores how budgeting constraints influence the success and profitability of music events, examining key challenges, strategies for maximizing revenue, the role of sponsorships, and emerging trends in event planning, while offering practical advice for aspiring music [...]