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 [...]
by José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D.; Theresse Racpan; Aishani Lahiri; and Eftihia Arkoudis, D.M.A. Abstract This editorial explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and music, examining its impact on authenticity, audience engagement, artistic integrity, copyright law, labeling standards, music careers, genre evolution, and cultural identity, while emphasizing the need [...]
By José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. & Thaddaeus Bourne, D.M.A. Abstract This editorial discusses how arts entrepreneurship serves as a powerful mechanism for community development, bridging economic, educational, and cultural gaps through strategic partnerships and creative initiatives. By fostering accessibility, mentorship, and sustainable models, arts entrepreneurs empower underserved communities, [...]
As I write this post, I am reflecting on the latest turn of events over the last couple of weeks. While some decisions have been made that will directly impact the work that we do as teachers, other decisions are threatening the very identity of who our students [...]