The Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) is taking strides to educate and empower the next generation of music professionals with the launch of two key initiatives: a free online micro-course and the expansion of its Student Ambassador Program.
The MLC’s first-ever online course, titled “The MLC 101: Introduction to The MLC”, is now available to college students. The course aims to provide a foundational understanding of how the MLC ensures that songwriters, composers, lyricists, and music publishers receive their mechanical royalties from streaming and digital downloads in the U.S. The best part? It’s entirely free and offers a certificate of completion, along with a digital badge for students who pass the optional final exam.
In just under two and a half hours, participants can complete the course, gaining insights into the MLC’s critical role in music licensing. Serona Elton, the MLC’s Head of Educational Partnerships, highlights the course’s flexibility: “We’re thrilled to offer our first online micro-course as a way for students to learn about mechanical licensing and the MLC’s role in a self-paced course structure.”
In addition to the micro-course, the MLC has enhanced its Student Ambassador Program. This volunteer program runs for 10 weeks and provides students with opportunities to engage deeply with the MLC. Ambassadors will promote awareness about the MLC on their campuses, interact with local songwriters, and participate in professional development activities.
The program is open to all currently enrolled college and university students, with no cost to join and no restrictions on location. Ambassadors will receive exclusive resources, participate in both virtual and in-person events, and earn official recognition for their efforts.
“We’re empowering students not only with education but with a chance to actively help music creators claim the royalties they’re owed,” Elton notes. This expanded program reflects the MLC’s commitment to shaping the next generation of music professionals.
Applications for the fall 2024 session are open until September 30, and students can apply through the MLC’s online platform by submitting proof of enrollment and passing an online video assessment.
These new initiatives underscore the MLC’s mission to engage with students while ensuring that songwriters and other music creators are fairly compensated in the evolving digital music landscape.
