Testimonials
Aidan Licker (2017)
Work: Tour Manager for Super American, Hot Mulligan, Mom Jeans, Free Throw, and Sincere Engineer. Touring guitarist for Super American
“The Fredonia Music Business program provided the foundation for my career, equipping me with invaluable knowledge in areas such as copyright, contracts, royalties, and licensing, which continue to serve me in my current role. Beyond academics, my involvement in activities like station managing Fredonia Radio Systems, hosting the Local Lo-Down, and co-founding Last Call Entertainment helped me hone essential project management skills, which I continue to refine every day.”
Jackie O’Mara (2014)
Work: Previous Production Assistant for: All Time Low, Lady A, Tove Lo, Alanis Morrisette, and Jon Pardi. Currently Production Assistant for Miranda Lambert
“The lessons at Fredonia that have stuck with me the most throughout my career are how important building connections is. Always ask - the worst anyone could say is no! I’ve learned a lot, met a ton of people, and have gotten almost all the jobs I’ve had just by networking and being kind to everyone I interact with on and off the road. The more genuine the outreach is, the better. Make friends first, then that will naturally turn into opportunities and referrals.”
Mike Tomasulo (2018)
Work: Tour Manager, Merchandise Manager, Production Manager, amongst other side roles for several bands.
“Perhaps the greatest takeaway from the program was not the classes themselves, but rather the initial industry networking that takes place amongst students of varying backgrounds. Working amongst your peers to discover each other's talents and career focus early on was the greatest takeaway for me personally. Over the course of 4 years, you grow together as a team to help accomplish the class assignments, which try to best prepare students for real-world situations.”
Dan Doyle (2022)
Work: Tour Manager, Merch Manager, and Driver for bands such as Cliffdiver, Doll Skin, Carpool, and Pinkshift. Booking and Stagehand for After Dark Presents
“I had so much fun at Fredonia and learned so much. My advice to students looking to get involved is to put yourself out there as much as possible and don’t be afraid to make mistakes or ask for help. The Music Industry program teaches you the nuances of the business and connects you with people, but what you do outside of the classroom builds meaningful connections and helps you reach your goals. I love what Last Call has been doing and hope to see Fredonia’s music scene continue to grow and reclaim its place as a must-stop destination for touring bands.”
Jessica Mack (2022)
Work: Social Media and Merch Manager, 10,000 Maniacs. Digital Marketing Coordinator at Chautauqua Opera Company and Conservatory.
“I feel the Music Industry program at SUNY Fredonia not only helped me create a strong foundation of usable skills, but also created solid connections with those in the industry, including young professionals like myself.”
Rick Coates (2013)
Work: Musician/Merchandise Manager/Operations Supervisor
“The Music Industry at SUNY Fredonia taught me that you can’t expect anything handed to you in this industry. You’ve gotta grind and cut your teeth to get where you want to be. Only a handful of each graduating class actually put in the effort it takes to make a career in the music industry possible. Don’t even let off the gas and let your work speak for itself. Work Hard, Play Hard, Work Harder.”
Cascio Fonesca (2023)
Work: Volunteer & Staffing Coordinator at Bethel Woods for the Arts, site of the original 1969 Woodstock Festival
“Through the Music Industry major’s student internship requirements, I was fortunate enough to make the connection that landed me an intern role at Bethel Woods in 2021, slowly working my way up the Operational ladder to join in a full-time capacity in January of 2025.”
Karalyn Hope (2022)
Work: touring/freelance professional with a focus on photo/video/merch/vip
“Fredonia taught me and gave me connections, friendships, and lessons that I will forever hold close to me as I and others make our way through the ever changing industry. The opportunities that I had and made for myself were unforgettable as I honed in on photography and videography. I’ve learned to always ask, make sure my brand and work are always updated and shared, and to make genuine friendships that might also lead to work.”
Michelina Castelli (2025)
My name is Lina Castelli, and my favorite classes at SUNY Fredonia are the laptop recording and film scoring classes. I learned my love for production and mixing along with acquiring those skills. There are also courses that are important to almost everyone in the industry, such as copyrights and contracts. All of the professors have expertise in different parts of the industry. I was also the secretary of the Music Industry Club, along with being on the promotions committee, where I handled booking, communications, and graphics.