Artist Manager

In the world of performing arts and music, an artist’s work involves many aspects, notably organizational and financial. They therefore need a companion throughout their professional career, a role taken on by the artist manager. Here is the key information about this career:

• Definition of the artist manager career
• What Are Their Responsibilities?
• What skills are needed to become an artist manager?
• What are this professional’s fields of practice?
• How do you become an artist manager?
• How do you become and find a good artist manager?

What Is an Artist Agent?

Also called an artist agent, the artist manager is in charge of managing the artist’s career. As such, they handle all aspects of managing their client, whether financial, reputation, contract management, or legal. A true guide and close partner, the artist manager promotes the artist’s career on the artistic and cultural scene.

What Is the Role of an Artist Manager in an Artistic Agency?

The duties tied to the artist manager’s job are many:

• Supporting the artist in their artistic vision and helping to develop their growth strategy
• Acting as an intermediary between the artist and publishing houses, music production companies or artistic agencies
• Reviewing and negotiating contracts (concerts, festivals, copyright, compensation terms)
• Defending the artist’s interests with all players in the performing arts world
• Handling the administrative and financial side (accounting, invoicing, filings)
• Promoting event communication and managing press relations
• Managing the logistics of each event (transportation, accommodation, technical needs)
• Managing the artist’s schedule and organizing professional meetings
• Developing and maintaining a network of contacts in the cultural industry
• Keeping watch on sector trends and opportunities
• Coordinating the various technical and artistic teams during projects

What are the fields of practice for the artist manager profession?

Artist managers can work in different sectors of the entertainment world, each with its own specificities.

Music and Music Production Agent

In the music industry, the artist manager supports singers, musicians and bands in their development. Their duties include:

• Negotiating with record labels
• Organizing tours and concerts
• Managing copyrights and recording contracts
• Developing the music promotion strategy
• Coordinating with producers and recording studios

Film and Audiovisual Talent Agent

In the film sector, the manager represents actors, directors or other professionals of the 7th art. They are notably in charge of:

• Searching for and selecting roles
• Negotiating contracts with productions
• Managing relationships with casting directors
• Organizing photo shoots and interviews
• Coordinating shooting schedules

Performing Arts Artist Management

For theater, dance or circus arts performers, the manager handles:

• Scheduling performances
• Relations with performance venues
• Managing artist residencies
• Coordinating rehearsals
• Organizing theater tours

In all these areas, the artist manager must undergo specific training and develop a solid professional network to carry out the job effectively.

How do you become an artist manager?

IESA 5-Year Postgraduate Program to Become an Artist Manager

Students who wish to study in the field of artistic production and enter the profession of artist manager can choose one of the following programs offered by IESA:

• Master in Performing Arts Production, a Bac + 5 program
• Master in Music Management, a Bac +5 program
• Contemporary Music Production Manager: A Professional Program

After completing one of these programs, the learner can enter the profession of artist manager.

Master’s-Level Studies (5 Years After High School)

The Master in Performing Arts Production is a 2-year program open to students holding a Bac+3 type degree. Learners can choose work-study for this type of program. This Master awards a professional certification with a level 7 title registered with the RNCP.

Programs for Professionals

The professional program to become a Music Production Manager lasts 6 months. It is open to those with proven professional experience and awards the title of Artistic Project Production Manager from ECAD consultants (training center), a level 5 title registered with the RNCP.

To be admitted, the candidate must have at least 2 years of experience in the cultural sector. They must also know the world of performance and music, and have a good general knowledge. These criteria are essential for the candidate’s admission, and their profile will be reviewed before access to the program.

Registration goes through 4 steps:

1. Apply via the application form or the online application;
2. An admission interview: conducted through an individual interview or an admission session;
3. An admissions committee deliberates to admit the student or not;
4. An enrollment file to be submitted once the student is admitted.

How do you become and find a good artist manager?

An exemplary sense of organization is the foundation for succeeding in this profession. The artist manager must master intellectual property and know how to scrutinize employment contracts to protect their artists' interests.

Building a strong professional network is decisive, particularly for developing effective press relations. The manager often spends weekends at events in the arts field, an availability that is essential for spotting new talent.

Pay generally works on a paid mandate, with the percentage varying according to the placement purposes and the execution with employers. The best managers stand out for their ability to provide personalized support while managing several artistic projects at the same time.