


Our Teams History
Michael Godshall, former Executive Creative Director at Yellowbrick, and Jeff Rabhan, Former Chair of the Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music at NYU, first crossed paths during the creation of an online music program. Their combined expertise and shared vision led to the development of a groundbreaking educational experience designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the music industry.

Challenge
The music industry is notoriously difficult to break into, with success often requiring a combination of talent, knowledge, networking, and timing. Traditional music education programs have struggled to keep pace with the rapid changes in the industry, particularly with the rise of digital platforms and new modes of content creation and distribution. Michael and Jeff identified the need for an innovative approach that could bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application, making music education more accessible, practical, and aligned with industry demands.
Solution
Leveraging Michael's experience in creative direction and digital learning at Yellowbrick, and Jeff's deep understanding of the music industry and educational leadership, they co-developed an online music program that redefined how students learn about and engage with the music business. The program was built around key industry insights, practical skills, and access to a network of industry professionals, offering a comprehensive curriculum that covered various aspects of the music business, including production, marketing, and entrepreneurship.


Implementation
The course was designed to be flexible and engaging, allowing students to learn at their own pace while providing them with real-world scenarios and challenges. Interactive content, including video lessons from industry experts, case studies, and hands-on projects, helped students apply what they learned in a practical context. The program also emphasized the importance of networking, offering students opportunities to connect with professionals and peers, thus enhancing their learning experience and career prospects.
Results
The program was a resounding success, attracting a diverse group of students from around the world. It provided them with not only the technical knowledge needed to succeed in the music industry but also the practical skills and professional connections that are crucial in today's competitive landscape. Graduates of the program have gone on to achieve success in various areas of the music industry, from production and performance to management and entrepreneurship. The collaboration between Michael and Jeff serves as a model for how creative professionals and academic leaders can work together to create educational experiences that are both innovative and impactful. Their work has set a new standard for online music education, demonstrating the potential of digital learning platforms to transform traditional educational models.


Conclusion
This case study highlights the importance of collaboration between industry experts and educators in developing programs that meet the evolving needs of students and the industries they aspire to enter. The success of this online music program underscores the value of blending academic rigor with real-world insights and practical experience, ultimately providing students with the tools they need to succeed in a dynamic and ever-changing field.
Explore the program: here: https://www.yellowbrick.co/music to discover how it continues to empower the next generation of music industry professionals.