My opinion of the Music Industry

Nobody said it would be easy.

Every profession has its upsides and downsides, and music is no different.

Recently, musician/producer Rick Beato went viral on the internet criticizing the current state of the music industry, longing for a time when people made an effort to enjoy music—like saving up to buy a vinyl or a CD, traveling to a record store, buying the album, getting back home, and savoring that first listen.

Of course, you listened to it from beginning to end. And then again. And again.

Today, with over 100,000 tracks uploaded daily to Spotify, music is abundant and instantly available. In Beato´s view, this might contribute to music losing its value to the consumer and becoming more of a commodity rather than a necessity.

He has a good point there.

BUT,

For me, just like with anything, it all comes down to education.

When we´re taught at home to become people with solid values, who appreciate the effort others make, and who empathize with others, we will most likely also be able to use modern tools for good.

Just look at the internet or social media, you can find some of the best and worst facets of humanity there at once.

Is it social media´s fault?

My answer would be: No.

My principle is simple: my life is my responsibility. If I'm in the music business, it's my decision in the first place. I must find my way through it and assume all responsibility. I must do everything possible to make it through, as long as I don´t harm anyone in the process.

So, if you think the music industry is messed up, you´re right. If you think it´s glorious, you´re also right. You can guess which one of those viewpoints will serve you better.

One of the beautiful things happening nowadays in the digitalized world of music is that people are appreciating physical items more than ever.

That´s why, after much thought (and pressure from the public), I´ve decided to release an album today in both digital and physical format. That means that you get to listen to it for free on digital platforms, but you also have the option to buy a CD album directly from me. Handsigned and all.

The album is a new collection of music by Bach, on the bandoneon. Beautiful music. Some of the most profound music ever composed.

And since it´s a very special occasion, and I´m so excited about it, I also decided to offer, for a limited time, the option of a two-CD pack: the Bach/bandoneon album together with my first piano album, with music by Debussy.

The one CD released today is 15€ plus shipping, and for an extra 5€, you get the two-cd pack.

Click here to access the product page.

This is a very special album. Both of them are. I hope you enjoy them as much as I did recording them.

Have a nice day,

Claudio.