About Polly
Polly Scattergood has established a distinguished career spanning over 18 years in the music industry. She has released four critically acclaimed albums, six EPs, and has amassed over three million plays on Spotify. Polly has appeared at numerous festivals and on live TV, including a recent performance on "Later With Jools Holland" alongside Grammy Award-winning producer William Orbit. Alongside co-host Katie Melua, she also leads the music-focused podcast "The Detail."
Since graduating from The BRIT School for Performing Arts in 2003, Polly has been signed to Mute Records / EMI and published as a songwriter by Warner Chappell, Mute Song / BMG, and Schubert Music Publishing. Additionally, she operates her own record label and studio, where she collaborates as a songwriter and producer with musicians ranging from grassroots talents to multiplatinum-selling artists.
"I am delighted to team up with The BRIT School to offer Creative Arts and Music Industry Mentoring opportunities. My goal is to give young people the confidence, knowledge, and tools they need to navigate this wonderful and ever-evolving music industry, providing unbiased, inspiring, and bespoke creative and industry support."
Course Content - Music Business and Creative Arts Mentoring
This unique course offers a balanced blend of music business and artist-led creative mentoring. It focuses on developing and nurturing ideas while providing practical guidance for moving forward. Additionally, the course imparts valuable industry knowledge and business insights to support your journey into the music industry. Lessons are a mix of in-person and online sessions, designed to guide individuals looking to forge their own paths in the music industry. Each session is entirely unique and bespoke, tailored to meet the specific requirements and interests of the student. Below is an example of some of the topics we could cover:
• A 360° look at the industry and the many roles within it.
• Developing your sound or project.
• Funding grants and resources.
• How to find the right manager or be a good manager.
• Understanding the different types of record deals available.
• How to obtain free legal advice.
• Setting personal goals. • Building a fanbase.
• How to release your own music.
• Staying healthy on tour.
The role of a producer.
• Creating a unique brand.
• Finding a live agent and getting the right gigs.
• Exploring additional revenue streams within music.
• Collaborations and networking opportunities.
• How to build relationships with music journalists and influencers.
Music video production and storytelling.
• Developing a strong online merchandising strategy.
• Understanding music royalties and income streams.
• Developing a strong work ethic and time management skills.
• Discussing effective communication and negotiation skills.
• Self-promotion and DIY strategies for independent artists
“Over the four terms of my music mentoring with Polly, I have found a new love and appreciation for music, as well as a deep understanding of how to succeed within the industry. This mentoring was tailored to my wants and needs as a creative, such as branding, marketing, and future management options. I am so thankful to Polly and proud of all that I have achieved in the year so far and look forward to continuing this into the future."
-Shenai
“You have been so helpful and taught me so many things about the music industry, and you have also been supportive and created a safe place for me to express my creative ideas."
-Miami