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Lane Marie O’Kelley mentors students in the Music Business Program

Witnessing students thrive resonates deeply with Lane Marie O’Kelley — occasionally literally and at times metaphorically.

In her role as the associate director of the Terry College of Business’ Music Business Program, she aids them in discovering their unique place within the music realm, whether performing on stage or working behind the curtain.

“When I observe students achieving their milestones and aspirations, it is the most gratifying experience,” she noted. “I gain a wealth of knowledge from them, and I relish the opportunity to support them both during their time here and after they complete their studies.”

O’Kelley is well aware of what they require. While pursuing her bachelor’s degree in vocal performance from the Hugh Hodgson School of Music in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, she concurrently earned a Music Business Certificate. Throughout the program, she began to compose her own music and interned with a local record label.

“Participating in the Music Business Program felt like uncovering the musical niche I had always sought but had yet to discover,” she shared. “As I delved into the various dimensions of the music industry and recognized how to forge a distinct and thrilling career path, I felt a surge of encouragement. I ignited with the realization that I could indeed turn this passion into a profession.”

Upon graduation, she secured a role as a student affairs professional within the Music Business Program. This opportunity enabled her to remain connected to the program she adores while influencing the next generation of music professionals and furthering her own understanding of the music landscape. She has served as associate director for just over a year.

“I have a privileged viewpoint of all the alterations in the industry while persisting in my pursuits as an artist,” she remarked.

The program provides students with insights and experiences across all sectors of the music industry — artist management, tour coordination, marketing, publishing, and record labels among others. This inclusivity allows students who may not excel in singing or instrumental performance to carve out their own spaces. The program only admits 100 students each year for capstone courses, cultivating a close-knit community.

“The music industry significantly relies on connections. Thus, while enrolled, you’re interacting with future colleagues and business affiliates,” she explained.

This dynamic also fosters a robust alumni network, who continue to contribute by recruiting graduates and returning to campus to deliver MBUS Talks, which O’Kelley plays a role in coordinating.

Connecting with alumni is merely one facet of O’Kelley’s responsibilities. She also spearheads the program’s communication initiatives, organizes events, collaborates with Terry’s development teams, and provides guidance to students. Daily, she manages emails, engages with students, and handles various administrative duties.

The students are what O’Kelley cherishes most about her work. Given that the Music Business Program welcomes all majors, she interacts with individuals from a broad spectrum of disciplines, including journalism, psychology, and even health sciences.

“It’s incredibly enjoyable because we have students with diverse personalities and backgrounds,” she stated. “We strive to create an environment that enables every member of the music community to thrive, discover their passions, and feel secure in their learning experience.”

O’Kelley’s passion for music ignited in her childhood, singing in the backseat and bringing a microphone to every Career Day. She continues to record in her home studio, aiming to release a full-length album and hopes to undertake her own headlining tour someday. For now, she relishes performing live during regional weekend tours. When not engaged in music-related activities, she enjoys spending time with her family, diving into captivating books, and indulging in good cuisine.

For O’Kelley, the most vital element is the community that music fosters. “Music is a communal activity,” she remarked. “Ultimately, it’s about the people, the community, and experiencing it collectively, which I believe the Music Business Program accomplishes exceptionally well.”

The post Student success is music to associate director’s ears appeared first on UGA Today.

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