Ian Roberts

This course will provide a thorough overview of the workings of a Press Officer in the UK music industry; equipping students with a knowledge of the day to day mechanics of the job, promoting musicians/bands to press and routes into music promotion. Topics for discussion will include the key elements of structuring a press release, collating a database, image/styling of acts, different approaches for different artists and building relationships within the industry. The course will include analysing various publications, how they can help to build a profile and their affect on other media, the impact of the internet and music downloads on the industry and the continuing love/hate relationship of music PR and press. Students will need strong written and verbal skills.

Ian Roberts is the Managing Director of A Star PR Ltd. He is widely known for his eclectic artist and event roster working with some of the biggest names in the music industry. For over 10 years he has successfully directed campaigns for major record labels, international music festivals and numerous arts and entertainment organisations.