Olivia Clavelo
Special to In Motion
When choosing a college major, often people choose an economically promising career over something they enjoy. Daytona State offers the best of both worlds.
The Mike Curb College of Music, Entertainment and Art at Daytona State College allows young musicians to follow their dreams of making it big, while still making smart choices for their careers. Jake Nicely, co-chair of the Music and Performing Arts Department said, “It’s the best thing since sliced bread! You can learn how to earn an income doing something you love.”
With a degree in Music Production Technology from Daytona State College, students are qualified and ready to work in the music industry. The program offers a wide variety of courses, for a wide variety of careers, including but are not limited to, music publishing, songwriting, producing/directing, artist management, tour production and performing.
Matt Goings attended Daytona State College and graduated in 2012 with an A.S. degree in Music Production Technology. He is the manager of two bands and also the lead singer of a popular local band called All Gone Grey. They have played over 50 shows, moving up from local bars to record stores to stages.
“The biggest show we’ve played so far was with the national touring band called Set It Off in Cocoa Beach. There were around 200 people at that show.”
Just in July, All Gone Grey released its newest CD during a performance at Atlantic Sounds and shortly after that went on its first tour to Nashville, Tenn.
“I made some great connections at the College of Music, Entertainment and Art that still help me to this day. Most of the people in the Daytona music scene go to Daytona State College.”
Those who don’t want to major in Music Production Technology, can still take musical courses as an elective. Studies have shown that studying music and other arts improves math, critical thinking and other skills. The Music Program has several classes suited to fit individual talents. Students can study percussion, string, brass, or wind instruments for elective credits. By the end of a course, participants have the opportunity to perform at the News-Journal Center with all of their classmates the Friday before the last week of each fall and spring semester.
For those who want to get more involved the Music Program has numerous performance groups. The Contemporary Vocal Ensemble and esteemed Concert Choir perform many times throughout the year. The Orchestra, Symphonic Band, Jazz Ensemble and other groups all perform at the College or the News-Journal Center as well.
The College of Music, Entertainment and Art features professional faculty with hands-on experience in the music industry. Students not only have the chance to perform in Daytona State Colleges’ professional performing arts center, but also to record their work in cutting-edge studios.