Bachelor Weekend crowned by keynote speech by Carl Leighton-Pope

Last weekend, the Komed Haus in Cologne became a hotspot for budding creative professionals in the music and management industry for one day. The Akademie Deutsche POP had the opportunity to welcome Carl Leighton-Pope, one of Europe's most renowned artist agents, successful theatre producer and a true icon in the music business, as a guest speaker. 

With a long career spanning over 55 years of working with the likes of Billy Ocean, Bryan Adams, Van Morrison, Michael Bublé and many more, Leighton-Pope presented the audience with his first-hand experience and insights into the music business.  

For the students of the Bachelor of Music Management programme, there was also a private lecture by Leighton-Pope on the same morning as part of their Bachelor Weekend. The Bachelor Weekends take place monthly at one of the three Deutsche POP Degree Centres in Cologne, Berlin or Amsterdam. Students use the time together there to work through the course material in intensive seminars with Bachelor lecturers and to consolidate it in practice-oriented group and individual work.  

The participants were able to take away useful tips that they can apply on their own path in the music and management sector.  

For example, Leighton-Pope revealed that in addition to making contacts and noticing opportunities, it was also important to listen to one's gut feeling. In the beginning, he recalled, he really wanted to work at a London music club that hosted many of his favourite artists. He didn't care if he had to "scrub the bar or carry stuff". This openness led to the launch of his career, because during his time as an all-rounder at the Marquee Club, Leighton-Pope made important contacts, met many artists and even started managing his first band, which was quickly followed by many more. Spontaneity and flexibility in particular have propelled his career. 

All in all, the event was a good opportunity for those present to gain new perspectives and familiarise themselves with the intricacies of the music and management industry. Akademie Deutsche POP remains committed to supporting its participants with such diverse and inspiring events. 

We would like to thank Carl Leighton-Pope for his keynote and all the participants who made this day a special event.