Florida State University (FSU) recently provided students with a unique opportunity to learn about the intersection of the arts and industry through a guest lecture linked to Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience. The event, held on October 3, brought together students from the College of Music, College of Fine Arts, and College of Motion Picture Arts for a discussion on both the creative and business aspects of large-scale productions.
The lecture featured Eric Meier, executive producer of the show, conductor Martin Gellner, and blues musician Keith Johnson. The speakers addressed topics such as intellectual property, funding models, and the challenges involved in working with high-profile talent like Morgan Freeman. Meier spoke about building productions from scratch and encouraged students to approach their creative work with an entrepreneurial mindset.
“This was a chance for students to hear directly from people who’ve been where they are and are now where they want to be,” said Jordan Phillips, education and engagement manager for Opening Nights at FSU. “It was about giving students practical advice and connecting them with professionals who’ve turned creative ideas into viable careers.”
Meier highlighted the evolving nature of the music industry: “The business of music is ever changing as fueled by new genres, new technology, and ever-changing economic models,” he said. “To share and exchange ideas with the FSU students was a blast for us and hopefully valuable to them as they proceed with their education and career.”
Students noted that learning from professionals broadened their understanding of both artistic creation and business operations in the arts. The event also underscored how collaborations between different colleges and the FSU Career Center support student career readiness.
Josie Frein, a senior at the College of Music, reflected on her experience: “The guest lecture event with Eric Meier was an eye-opening experience that I am glad to have been a part of. It was refreshing to hear that Mr. Meier began his journey in medical device sales and is now a producer of a major music tour. As a music therapy major, I am always interested in learning about the music business and its many facets. This event helped me realize career paths are not always conventional!”
After the lecture, students attended Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience performance. The show included narration by Freeman himself alongside performances by a blues band from Clarksdale, Mississippi, and the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra.
Opening Nights at FSU aims to connect students with professional artists through events like these. Its initiatives promote interdisciplinary learning by bringing performances, lectures, and workshops into classrooms and campus venues. The program supports student achievement while expanding access to arts experiences within FSU and throughout Tallahassee.
“Opening Nights is more than a performance series; it exists to connect the artists we present with students both on and off the FSU campus,” said Kevin Maynard, executive director of Opening Nights at FSU. “Presentations like this highlight the many roles people play in the arts, reminding us that there is more to a performance than what happens on stage. These collaborations help shape the future of our students and the performing arts.”
More information about educational programs can be found at openingnights.fsu.edu/education.
