In the 2009-10 academic year, the University of Tiny Mix Tapes will be offering a new musical economics course entitled "Recession Busting." Students will learn the theories and concepts around tackling an economic recession with Professor P (Ph.D in Competitive Alternatives to Pitchfork Media) and Associate Professor Squeo (Ph.D in News Editing of Pretentious Websites).
The first module will examine the impacts of tax breaks for small live music venues. Using Seattle, WA as an example, students will discuss whether giving money back to musicians helps to lift cities out of recession.
- Background information: On May 11, 2009, the Seattle City Council voted to take another vote on exempting small live music venues from its admissions tax. The exemption would only apply to clubs with a capacity of less than 1,000 and where shows took place at least three times a week with a minimum of 16 performers.
Nightlife Music Association President Quentin Ertel says, "Is it going to keep the doors open for clubs that would otherwise go out of business? Probably not, but it is going to get a very pro-music tone for the city and that can’t be a bad thing."
Students will need to grapple with a wide variety of musical and economic data to arrive at their own conclusions on the merits of these tax breaks (while listening to each mix of the Chocolate Grinder).