Joseph Emsden

Artist Relations and Promotions Coordinator at Yamaha Music Europe

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Joseph studied Music with Media at Canterbury Christ Church University, graduating in 2004 and is now an Artist Relations and Promotions Coordinator at Yamaha Music Europe, generating sales through promotion to artists.

“Canterbury Christ Church University provided the perfect joint honours course for me, and along with a recommendation from an old music teacher, I was sold. I also liked the Canterbury Campus; it was smaller than other institutions I had visited, which suited me.

I had some amazing opportunities whilst at Christ Church; I was given the chance to play a solo piece at Canterbury Cathedral, I travelled widely and am now very fond of the city itself.

The course helped me to see the musicians’ perspective and understand their needs - a module on marketing and PR was also beneficial to what I would eventually go on to do.

After graduation I went into sales, advising customers on equipment that would suit their requirements. This opportunity led to an internal promotions role and, now, an Artist Relations Manager.

I have worked with One Direction, Jessie J and Olly Murs, advising them on the best possible musical equipment for their requirements. I have had the chance to meet lots of amazing people and learned that relationship building is so important when it comes to your career.

I would suggest that other students learn the benefit of teamwork and networking, learn how to market yourself, be confident, be nice and make sure people remember you!"