This lecture, presented by Sergey Bryukhno—a music producer, composer, and founder of Oclassica, a pioneering digital-only classical music label—examines the digital transformation of classical music and its impact on performing artists. With over 15 years of experience in the classical music industry, Sergey provides firsthand insights into how musicians can adapt to the digital age, build their artistic presence, and engage with audiences in innovative ways. Drawing on his expertise in music production, artist development, and digital strategies, this session equips classical music performers with the essential skills needed to navigate the evolving industry and establish sustainable careers.

According to the research conducted among conservatory graduates in Germany¹, only 23.2% of graduates got permanent jobs, as was expected at the beginning of their professional education. Only 17% of the participants aspired to become freelance musicians, but 58.6% of them were found to work in the freelance field.

Part of the problem is that music studies in general are mainly aimed at developing instrumental skills required for positions in the orchestra, music school, etc. The research suggest a lack of reflection on the audience and the context in which professional musicians are acting. Not all conservatories offer music industry insights, audience research, or digital marketing skills needed to develop a music career in an open market.

What about this lecture?

Today we live in a digital world with nearly half of the global population online. And this world is constantly changing. The digital transformation has affected every aspect of human life, and classical music is no exception. The place of classical music in society is changing, and careers in music performance are changing as well. How are music institutions responding to these changes? Can students acquire knowledge that will enable them to find their own way in this constantly changing environment?

This lecture is created to fulfill this knowledge gap in music studies.

The lecture explores the world of classical music from the perspective of a digital society and provides essential digital marketing knowledge, expertise and practical skills relevant to today’s world. You will be provided with the industry insights, practical tips and strategies to let you use all the opportunities that exist today and help you take the first steps towards a successful music career as a performing artist, manager of a cultural institution or an orchestra.

Why this lecture is essential for every classical musician

Musicians finding themselves in a freelance market need to be entirely self-sufficient in terms of managing their enterprise. Important skills are therefore the ability to think critically, to reflect on their professional practice and circumstances, to find an audience through identifying interests and targeting particular groups, and to align with esthetic preferences.

The curriculum of this lecture is based on a real-world experience of Oclassica and musicians of the label. At Oclassica we have learned from the pains and struggles that musicians deal with. In this lecture Sergey Bryukhno shares multidisciplinary approach to the challenges faced by classical musicians, teaching methodology and essential skills – all geared towards bridging the knowledge gap of conservatory studies and helping you navigate the music industry.

What you are going to learn

The lecture will show you how multidisciplinary knowledge, digital marketing, and audience engagement skills will impact your career; it will explain why classical music needs new thinking while breaking the stereotypes of the past. All of these drastically change the way you look at career prospects and guide you towards your future.

For whom is this lecture?

• Students of all levels, graduates of music colleges and conservatories
• Representatives of cultural institutions working on digital transformation

If you think that classical music is not a hobby but rather a business, this lecture is definitely for you! This is a crucial lecture for any classically trained musician who prefers not to follow stereotypical views of professional future, but to choose their own career path. It is designed to give you practical skills that will help you in your professional life as a musician.