Vermilion Records 2018 Various Artists

Research Background:
Vermilion Records, a student-run record label based at Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia, makes its debut in 2018. Student-run record labels in higher education provide students with real-world experience and skill development (Evpak, 2022; Lipset, 2021) in a commercial record production setting. Vermilion Records brings together students from various disciplines within the creative industries to collaborate on the production and promotion of new music by emerging local Queensland artists. This is the first album produced by QUT students at Vermilion Records and was released on Bandcamp in July 2018 and has since garnered over 4,000 downloads. Across the year students across the creative industries work with a roster of artists to create a range of assets that service the artists’ branding and creative identity including a suite of visual assets including album artwork, music video production, logos, electronic press kits, web design, and a music industry showcase event at a prominent Brisbane venue called the Foundry in Fortitude Valley.

Research Contribution: This research contributes to the understanding of the effectiveness and impact of student-run record labels as a pedagogical tool in music industry education. By examining the experiences and insights of students involved in Vermilion Records, the study sheds light on the practical skills, knowledge, and industry exposure gained through participation in such initiatives. The research explores the collaborative nature of the project, highlighting the benefits of interdisciplinary cooperation among students from different creative fields. Furthermore, the study investigates the success of the album release on Bandcamp, demonstrating the potential for student-produced work to reach a significant audience and gain recognition in the digital music marketplace. Students developed a merchandise line for their sell-out showcase at the Foundry in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley, successfully event-managed the event in front of music industry representatives, fans and the general public, earning a profit, meeting their costs, and paying their artists.

Research Significance: The significance of this research lies in its potential to inform and shape the development of music industry education programs in Australia and beyond. By providing evidence of the educational value and real-world outcomes of student-run record labels, the study supports the integration of such initiatives into university curricula. The findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on the importance of experiential learning and industry engagement in preparing students for careers in the music industry. Moreover, the success of Vermilion Records' first album release highlights the untapped potential of student creativity and collaboration, encouraging further investment in and support for similar projects. Ultimately, this research underscores the need for innovative approaches to music industry education that bridges the gap between higher education and professional practice, equipping students with the skills and experience necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive and evolving industry.