As part of this year’s Music Business Summer Camp at Tileyard Education, we’re excited to introduce one of our expert tutors: Henry Birkbeck, a seasoned entertainment lawyer with a deep understanding of the creative industries.
Before becoming a lawyer, Henry worked as a music producer, giving him firsthand insight into the challenges faced by creatives. Today, he’s Counsel at global law firm Reed Smith, specialising in entertainment and media law — including music, film, TV, and digital content.
“I work on contract formation and negotiation — helping clients understand, draft, and manage contracts before they become problems,” Henry explains. “I’m not a litigator. My role is about prevention, not reaction.”
After beginning his legal career in general commercial law, Henry transitioned into the entertainment sector, where he’s been combining his legal skills with his passion for music ever since.
Why Legal Knowledge Matters in the Music Business
At our Music Business Summer Camp, Henry will focus on a key but often misunderstood area: contracts.
“Music is an industry where people can easily get tied up in deals they don’t fully understand,” he says. “Terms like exclusivity, delivery obligations, and territory often go unnoticed — until they become problems.”
While a legal degree helps, Henry stresses that a basic understanding of contract law is both possible and essential. “You don’t have to be a lawyer, but you do need to read your contracts. The basics — like what you’re committing to and what the other side is offering — should always be clear.”
He’ll be guiding camp participants through practical legal essentials, helping them build confidence in reading, negotiating, and understanding music industry agreements.
Advice for Aspiring Music Professionals
Henry’s advice for those interested in music law or the business side of the industry is to start with the fundamentals.
“Understand how the legal system operates at a basic level,” he says. “Then add the music industry knowledge on top. It’s never too late to start learning.”
This combination — core legal training plus industry-specific insight — is what makes Henry’s guidance at the Music Business Summer Camp especially valuable for emerging professionals.
Learn From More Experts at the Music Business Summer Camp
Tileyard Education’s Music Business Summer Camp is your chance to learn directly from industry leaders like Henry Birkbeck who have first-hand experience and networks in the industry. You’ll get hands-on experience and insider knowledge on everything from music law and publishing to contracts, royalties, and industry strategy.
