Joe Rapolla ‘90M, chair of the Music and Theatre Arts Department and director of the Music Industry program, presented at the Association for Popular Music Education (APME)/Mediterranean Music Education Committee (MEMECO) Conference held at Liceo Classico Ovidio in Sulmona, Italy, from July 14 to 16.
The theme of this year’s international conference was: “Sharing Voices, Shaping Futures: Music, Identity, and Education.” Core topics covered included accessibility in music education, inclusion, intercultural dialogue, and educational innovation. Participants included over 100 speakers, researchers, educators, artists, and students from global nations including the U.S., UK, Italy, China, and Middle Eastern countries.
Rapolla gave a multimedia presentation overviewing the concept, rationale, and elements of Blue Hawk Records, the University’s student-run record label. His talk covered how the label helps bring the Music Industry curriculum to life while serving as a flagship brand at Monmouth. Program attendees learned how schools might develop and benefit from establishing a similar program.
Blue Hawks Records gives students a practical foundation in music business, performance, production, marketing, publishing, concert promotion, media relations, merchandising, and talent development. Students work as A&R representatives, managers, producers, marketers, and artists while releasing original music and producing live events. Monmouth’s location near Asbury Park connects students to one of the nation’s most storied music communities, with access to live venues, working professionals, and Lakehouse Recording Studios, a leading Asbury Park recording facility. On campus, students gain further experience through The Bruce Springsteen Center for American Music, and through behind-the-scenes roles with the annual American Music Honors program.
MEMECO is dedicated to advancing the role of music education in fostering social change and community empowerment throughout the Mediterranean. The organization is built on the belief that music can be a transformative force for individuals and communities alike. MEMECO brings together a vibrant community of educators, artists, and advocates who are committed to enriching lives through music; their programs connect diverse populations, promote cultural exchange, and ensure that music education is accessible to all.