although music is a difficult field in which to make a living if you plan on becoming a performing artist, it is certainly not impossible. keep in mind that the field is very broad and that you did not mention what instrument you play .... some instruments are more in demand than others ... there may be lots of clarinetists and saxaphonists around because that is what schools tend to teach, but a really great bassoon player or english horn player has a better chance of getting a job because there are fewer players.... ( unless you are virtuosic, then everyone will want you, of course.... :-) ) if you work hard and are an exceptional player, then you can do it! as far as music conservatory vs. university, the difference is in the focus.....in the conservatory setting, most of your courses will pertain directly to music, music history, theory, performance, conducting, composition and so on, as well as other related arts.... the university education will include standard college requirements such as english, math, science in addition to the music courses... both offer bachelors, masters and doctorate programs and post graduate certificates. i would recommend that you spend the time you have over the next few years visiting schools and researching the programs they offer to get a better idea of what YOU will be happy doing. do not rely solely on your high school music teacher, as the focus there is on the group and the school, not the individual.... and public schools especially are not geared to advance the individual student in difficult fields. you could also participate in summer festivals (auditions are usually required) of which there are many all over the country, and do take part in whatever musical activities your high school offers.... don't forget allstate bands and so on in your state....look for youth symphonies in your area also ... these provide a wonderful and exciting experience in a nurturing environment....above all i would recommend attending a music prep school... many conservatories offer these classes, usually on saturdays, for students from elementary (and even younger) thru high school level... they prepare students for the big step into college/conservatory and introduce you to successful professional musicians who will teach you what you need to know.... some people feel that musicians are a dying breed, as one person above wrote... allow me to say that no civilization in the history of the world has survived without music...this is fact! i doubt that this will change anytime soon... the one thing you must keep in mind is that you cannot succeed in this business alone... you need a mentor at as early an age as possible and your family must be very supportive. unless you are lucky, it all takes time to come together.. so work hard, be patient, get help and practice, practice, practice!! best wishes for your success.... maybe i'll hear you at carnegie hall some day.... :-) Marian
2006-08-22 11:29:58
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answer #1
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answered by maid marian 2
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I have a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Composition from the University of North Texas - the college of music is a division of the university, not a seperate institution, so I'm a little confused as to what you're asking, one over the other. UNT offers a BA in music as well through the college of arts, if that is what you mean. The BA is a more rounded, less specialized degree as far as the requirements go, so if you are looking to focus on a specific facet of music (such as theory, performance, or history,) you would be better off with a BM. I personally loved my experience at UNT - the ensembles in particular are top notch in all aspects, whenther you do the Jazz lab bands, orchestra, choir, or any number of other groups including Jazz Singers. It's a tough school, you will definately know your stuff when you get out. If you have any other questions feel free to email me at g_tag@yahoo.com. I hope this helps, and good luck in your decision.
2006-08-22 17:49:07
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answer #2
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answered by gootentag_untmusician 2
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I didn't - kinda knew I wasn't good enough so didn't try.
Wish I'd kept the music moving though - I stagnated for ten years after making that choice.
What I heard from someone whose daughter went to the Royal Scottish Academy of Music & Drama: if you are the best at music in your class, school, town, planet, and then you go to music school, you get the shock of your life, when you discover that, compared to everyone else, you're still just banging rocks together. You have to get over that and my goodness does it sting until you do. But it's a natural part of the process.
I'm reading Zen Guitar just now. It's a collection of cheesy aphorisms by someone who, for all I can tell, may know very little of either Zen or Guitar. But I like it for some reason and I reckon it would give you the right attitude to get the best out of music school.
Go to it. Tough out the hard times and come out loving it. Then make us all happy with whatever it is that you do.
PS TotalBitch is partly right about how hard it is to make a serious living in music. But I'd rather eat beans on toast all my life - actually no - in fact I'd rather eat other people's old shoes all my life - than take a career in media. Yeaughhh!!!
2006-08-22 17:48:17
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answer #3
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answered by wild_eep 6
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I went to a music school between 11-16 and did A Level music at college. If you have talent, you will succeed. If like me, you don't, you'll at least have an interest for the rest of your life. Good luck.
2006-08-22 17:44:34
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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It is very difficult to make a living in Music, esecially these days.
Live music is dying out and live musicians are a dying breed. Much cheaper to get playbacks and cd's are very easy to download.
If I were you, I;d do a degree in media. Much more chance of eating more than beans on toast afterwards.
Good luck, you are gunna need it.
2006-08-22 17:42:26
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answer #5
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answered by TotalBitch 3
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The academy of contemporary music in Guildford. Did diploma and advanced diploma in guitar
2006-08-22 17:44:10
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answer #6
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answered by monocracy_uk 2
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