Whether your taste runs to classical, cool jazz or rock 'n' roll, there's
a music program out there for you.
There are various programs available. Some colleges offer two-year
degrees in music. There are also music conservatories, high-level classical
institutions which focus solely on performance and not academics.
In addition, there are several private music schools, also performance-oriented.
These often offer more opportunities for students interested in modern music.
The type of school and program you attend will depend largely on your
career goals. Teaching music in an elementary or high school requires
at least a four-year degree, with a combined major in music and education.
To teach at a college or university, you'll probably need a master's or
even a PhD, as well as an established professional reputation. However, people
with enough talent may be able to get a position at a college or university
without having the usual educational requirements.
If you want a career in performance, the amount of education also varies.
For pop, rock and alternative music, you usually learn by doing. For classical
and jazz, you'll often need years of formal training to hone your skills.
While a bachelor's degree takes four or five years, a community college
program usually takes two. Programs at conservatories and private institutions
vary widely in length.
When you apply to a music school, make sure you understand what kind
of credentials you will be earning there. If it's a private, non-accredited
school, check with graduates to see whether they recommend it. Find out what
the local music community thinks of it.
The National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) accredits many public
and private music schools. However, accreditation is strictly voluntary.
Many schools require you to have a musical background, including instrument
or voice performance, before you apply.
According to university music teacher Linda Pimentel, an entrance audition
is mandatory. Students are expected to perform at least at a Grade 7 or 8
level in their chosen instrument.
It's important to listen to, practice and perform music as much as possible.
"The more performance opportunities, both solo and ensemble, the student has,
the more comfortable the student is likely to be within a university setting
in which public performance is a requirement," says Pimentel.
Pimentel says her university also offers computer courses so that students
can learn to compose music via computer programs, an increasingly common
practice.
Besides tuition and books, students will also have the expense of an instrument
and its maintenance.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Musicians,
Singers
or more information related to this field of study, see: Careers
for Music Lovers
GRAMMY.com
Official site of the famous awards includes a history, news features,
downloads and media archive
Careers in Music
Even if you're tone-deaf, you can still work in the music business