The mission of USC Upstate's Commercial Music program is to prepare majors for successful careers in music, provide an inclusive environment for all students to create and learn about music, and enhance the quality of life in the Upstate region through public concerts, talent management, and professional / community partnerships. Commercial Music is an innovative, career-relevant program that focuses on contemporary popular music and jazz within a liberal arts context. Our faculty members have years of professional experience in the fields of instrumental and vocal performance, composition, and music technology. Our curriculum helps students develop core competencies in performance, musicianship and music theory, music history, music production and recording, and music business and entrepreneurship. Our experiential learning philosophy provides students with high-impact opportunities in live musical performance and industry-standard digital music production technology. Our performing ensembles are a visible presence in the Upstate community, and our students regularly perform at venues and complete professional internships throughout the region.