1. Get a Music File

MP3 started a real craze for music online. The format combined quality playback with good compression. It is not the only audio file format, and a replacement format may be available by the time you read this.

Find and download a music file that you like. Most of the search engines will help you find a file; many will help you do a specific search. You may also go to specific music sites such as iTunes.com, Rhapsody.com, Garageband.com, or visit your favorite artist's site (see the next question). Music files can be a bit large for slower dial-in connections, so be aware of the file size, and, if necessary, choose a MIDI file. Popular streaming programs such as QuickTime, Windows Media Player, and RealPlayer will play most files. Special software such as WinAmp and SoundJam will provide more features, but are not really worth downloading for a single file (the software can be almost as large as some of the music files and you must install it). How did you find your music file? How long did it take to get it and how was the sound quality? Could you use this method to collect music?

2. Visit an Artist's Web Page

The Internet has become a great tool for promoting music and artists. Almost all artists have a web page, and the popular artists have spawned fan pages. Pick two of your favorite musicians/singers and find their official web page and at least one fan site. How effective are these sites? Do they make you want to buy the music?

3. Internet Radio

The Internet has spawned hundreds of new radio stations. Formats that were not viable in a local market are multiplying online. Find ten online radio broadcasts with formats that are not available in your city. If possible, listen to the stations. You should be able to find Internet radio stations through an MP3 player or RealPlayer.