Starting point: GRAMMYU

It was not a hard decision to make when I thought about of which trade associations I would pursue. Being an active seeker and sometimes participator in the happenings of the music industry, I had a list of organizations that I already monitored. The various benefits of these trade associations are not always exclusive to its members. For example, some associations have industry-related programs which involve supporting changes to legislation or educating the community. I joined GrammyU, a network created by The Recording Academy, so that I could learn more about the current trends, regulations, and developments influencing the music industry. So far, the most valuable benefit of my membership with GrammyU is the networking opportunities made available.

By providing musical performance opportunities, networking, and educational programs, GrammyU prepares members for careers in the recording industry. GrammyU has chapters all over the United States and caters to university students. The Florida Chapter, based in Miami, Fl, holds networking events each month located in different cities throughout the state. The first GRAMMYU meet-and-greet that I have attended was in Tampa. The event gave me an opportunity to introduce myself to other participating members of GrammyU, prospective members, as well as several current members of The Recording Academy.

Recognizing the achievements of industry professionals is what most people think of when they hear of the association. The Recording Academy’s members include producers, singers, songwriters, managers and many other professionals within the industry. Other than producing the GRAMMY Awards, The Recording Academy also established the GRAMMY Foundation, MusiCares, and GRAMMY’s on the Hill. The Recording Academy helps amplify the voice of the professionals in the music industry when adjustments to legislation are needed. Preserving the integrity of the industry and cultivating the talented minds that are the current and future members of the music community are the primary goals of the association. Of all the trade organizations to choose from today in the music industry, a membership with The Recording Academy was a good place for me to begin.