Say hello to new Entertainment Studies instructor Ryan Kofman! Ryan will be teaching Music Supervision for Film and Television this spring. He is Senior Director of Creative Synch at BMG, where he pitches and procures synch placements for BMG’s catalog of music. Previously, he served as the Associate Director of AWAL Synch at Kobalt Music Group, securing synch placements for independent artists.

We sat down with Ryan and asked him 5 questions to get to know more about him and his course.

What about teaching for Entertainment Studies are you most looking forward to?
I’m most looking forward to exciting students in this field. There are a lot of rewarding aspects as a music supervisor and leaving my students motivated would mean the world to me. I also look forward to learning with them. This industry changes daily and there are things we will learn together, in real time.

What do you hope students get out of your course?
I hope all my students leave the course confident in their understanding of the role as a music supervisor. I want them to feel that their time and money spent was worth it once the course is complete, and that they start working towards their personal goals.

What is one thing you want students to know before they begin your class?
There’s A LOT to go over, but, that doesn’t mean it won’t be fun. There are so many aspects and variations as a music supervisor, so don’t feel overwhelmed. We will get through it together!

What are you watching or listening to these days that you are enjoying?
I am absolutely loving The Boys on Amazon, Better Call Saul on AMC and I’m a Stranger Things fanatic. The music behind these shows help keep a fan base engaged and they are so well curated. As far as music goes…that changes daily. But some more recent gems I’ve had on repeat are Jack Garratt’s “Time”, The Big Moon’s “Your Light” and Orlando Weeks’ “Safe In Sound.”

What’s the best piece of advice you would give to someone aspiring to break into your field?
Passion will get you there. A lot of people in this industry can quickly get jaded on the politics. In the end, the good heavily outweighs the bad. Stick though “those days” with your passion and the good days become even better. Love what you do.