Prostor and VK Education are expanding opportunities for aspiring music managers by launching a free training program supported by the Higher School of Economics of the National Research University, as announced by VK’s press service. The initiative brings together online lectures, practical sessions, and mentorship from seasoned industry curators, all designed to equip participants with hands-on skills in music management.
Selected participants will have access to a blend of virtual learning and real-world exposure. The program culminates in an offline camp in Moscow, where finalists will tour record labels and studios to gain an inside look at day-to-day operations in the music business. The experience is tailored for musicians, managers, and anyone looking to specialize in this field, emphasizing actionable training supervised by industry experts and VK Records professionals.
The lineup of curators features Alex Nikolaev, founder and principal adviser at InSimple, who collaborates with RedOne, Nina Kraviz, Tesla Boy, Therr Maitz, and Manizha, along with Alexey Rozhkov, the founder of the RNDM Crew association. Additional mentors include OG Buda, Mayot, 163ONMYNECK, Toxis, and Feduk, creating a diverse mix of perspectives from prominent figures in the music scene.
VK emphasizes a long-standing collaboration with the School of Economics to deliver educational programs in technology and information fields. The partnership now broadens to include a music management track within VK’s creative platform Prostor. Experts with varied backgrounds were invited to share their experiences, ensuring that participants gain insights from multiple angles and disciplines. The aim is to provide a learning journey that resonates with the realities of the music industry today.
Interested applicants should submit an application and complete a practical task before the deadline of November 16. The task requires the creation of a music release plan that demonstrates planning, strategy, and an understanding of audience engagement. This assessment helps identify candidates who can translate theory into tangible results in a fast-paced field.
Beginning on November 22, the program runs an online intensive phase for those who pass the initial screening. Participants will tackle practical assignments, attend expert-led lectures, and meet with leading industry professionals. Based on performance during these activities, a group of finalists will be chosen to advance to the next stage of the training experience, where they will receive targeted guidance and opportunities to connect with potential partners and employers.
Earlier, VTsIOM highlighted findings from a survey on social media and instant messaging usage in Russia, underscoring the central role of digital communication in contemporary music promotion and artist development. This context helps frame the relevance of the VK Education initiative within the broader media landscape and the evolving ways audiences discover new music and manage careers in the sector.