By José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. and Derris Lee Abstract This article explores how faculty, educators, and creative professionals can design meaningful projects by collaborating with former students, alumni, and trusted partners. Through real-world examples, the authors illustrate how resourceful, purpose-driven teamwork can yield artistic excellence, community impact, and [...]
by José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. Abstract This article introduces the "constellation career" as a liberating framework for 21st-century creative leaders, arguing that embracing a multidimensional professional identity—rooted in purpose, integration, and adaptability—offers a more resilient and impactful alternative to the outdated singularity of job titles. It also presents [...]
by José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. & Robert Acevedo Jr. Abstract This thought leadership article offers a candid, strategy-driven exploration of how music professionals can navigate betrayal in the industry with integrity, foresight, and resilience. Through ten actionable principles—framed as a Personal Announcement to protect one's artistry and preserve [...]
By José Valentino Ruiz, Ph.D. & Robert Acevedo Jr. Abstract This article explores the critical difference between confidence and arrogance in creative entrepreneurship, asserting that mislabeling confidence—often shaped by cultural identity and field experience—as arrogance is a systemic issue rooted in insecurity and institutional bias, and advocating instead [...]
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 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, [...]