Brooklyn's Progress
September 2001

By Arcola Robinson The Brooklyn Public Library Business Library hosted a free, two-part breakfast series on the music industry. These events were part of the ongoing Made in Brooklyn Power Breakfasts, which are sponsored by Con Edison. Over 150 people interested in the business side of the music industry attended the breakfasts. Each program featured speakers who shared their personal business experiences and expertise. In the first event on June 6, Bryan Miller, bandleader of Miller’s Farm, who spoke about starting his own band and some guerilla marketing that has brought him success. Sound studio owner Tom McConnell of Culture Sound Studios spoke about the new trends in music recordings. Elizabeth Vincentilli, music editor of Time Out New York (TONY) magazine conveyed some effective ways to approach the press. Allison Tocci, publisher of Time Out New York, emceed the panel. On June 13, Mingo Tull owner of Musician’s General Store, shared how he went from musician to music storeowner. David Rivel, director of the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music, reviewed educational programs, and cabaret proprietor Gary Catus shared his story of how he incorporated his love for jazz into being a night club owner. As a special treat, the audience enjoyed performances from musician and songwriter Debbie Dean, children’s songwriter Luis Miranda, and piano inspiration David Phillips. Arcola Robinson is outreach assistant at the Business Library.