Mercer Law School, the School of Music, and Mercer Music at Capricorn joined forces to host an entertainment law seminar aimed at providing valuable insights into the legal aspects of the music industry. The event, which took place on April 13, brought together a panel of industry professionals to share their expertise with members of the community, artists, and students interested in expanding their knowledge of entertainment law.
Karen J. Sneddon, professor of law and dean of Mercer Law School, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "One of the great aspects of Mercer University is the range of academic units and divisions, and this event was a valuable opportunity for students to learn from expert panelists and recognize concerns from artists."
Steve Ivey, a Mercer School of Music alumnus and Capricorn project advisor, played a crucial role in organizing the symposium, emphasizing the importance of understanding both the creative and business aspects of the music industry. Ivey highlighted the need for aspiring professionals to have not only talent but also a strong entrepreneurial work ethic and a team of skilled professionals.
The seminar featured sessions covering various topics in entertainment law, including intellectual property, contracts, and negotiation. Mercer Law alumni Vernon M. Strickland and Rush Hicks led the session on "What is Entertainment Law?" providing insights into the evolution of the music industry and the importance of legal knowledge for artists and industry professionals.
Hicks shared his experience, saying, "I particularly enjoyed speaking with the law students and giving them some insight into opportunities to work as attorneys in the business and how different the music industry is compared to other types of businesses."
The event culminated in a simulation of a negotiation for an artist's recording contract, offering attendees a practical experience in deal-making within the entertainment industry. Mercer Law student Mary Evelyn Brock praised the symposium, stating, "Each speaker enriched our understanding of what entertainment law truly entails."
Jeannie Zipperer, Assistant Dean of Student Affairs, commended the success of the symposium, highlighting the value it brought to law students, performers, and industry professionals by shedding light on the intricate legal and business aspects of the entertainment world.
Mercer Music at Capricorn, known for its mission to preserve Macon's music heritage while fostering its future, has been actively engaging in educational initiatives like the Professional Development Series. The entertainment law seminar marked the third event in the series, following a music business summit and an introduction to studio recording certificate program.
Looking ahead, Mercer Music at Capricorn plans to continue offering educational opportunities, including a songwriting workshop and another introduction to studio recording certificate program in fall 2024. Steve Ivey reflected on the project's success, describing Capricorn as a place where renovation meets innovation, combining the restoration of the original studio with new, state-of-the-art facilities to support the music industry's growth and development.