Selecting the correct music course is crucial. For some, the goal is to enter the music industry as record artists in a label or other related role, others to play in a band or orchestra or to become music teachers. The options are vast and can be overwhelming, knowing that you will be investing a good portion of your life and money in something that you are not sure of the outcome. It may seem like a gamble.
Talent aside (this is a must), getting a job in the music industry requires skill and experience (if you’re lucky enough to land a job or an internship) as well as a degree. Budget is also an important factor when choosing a music course. If you play an instrument, some (like brass and wind) can be very expensive. There may be an ongoing investment in your instrument, as well as private lessons while you study. If you intend to apply to a major institution that has ties to the industry, be aware of the high fees charged.
Generally, most institutions seek a certain standard of performance for vocal and instrumental skills and, sometimes, compositional ability.
Here are some ideas on how to proceed with choosing the best music course:
1. Decide what area of the music industry you are interested in and passionate about.
Is it related to teaching / education, performance, production / technology, or business? Look at educational and industry directories that provide an overview of different sectors, job specifications, etc. Also, check out the tips and guidance pages. If you plan to do a degree, the top 2 are a BA in Music and a BMus. Some colleges may offer both a bachelor’s degree and a BMus course. While both are general music courses, the BA course typically follows a broader range of subjects, including more academic subjects such as music history or analysis.
BMus courses, on the other hand, are more practice-oriented. They usually contain more elements of interpretation and composition. You should compare course details at individual colleges to get an exact comparison.
2. If you are applying to a university or college, understand that they want the best candidates as much as you want to study there.
So do your research. When considering a university / college, consider:
– if you want to stay close to your family or move as far away as possible
– big city or small town? What is social life like?
– see how long the course has been established
– What are the entry requirements necessary to be accepted?
– Do you receive visits from people who work in the industry?
– Are current students happy with their courses there?
– What was the feedback from the graduates prior to the course? How many of them got good jobs when they left?
3. You can help yourself by applying to as many relevant people as possible.
Keep in mind that competition for venues means that many music courses are oversubscribed. Also, there are a large number of different music courses available at universities. If you have already decided on your career path, a specialized music course is worth considering. If you want to keep your options open, choose a general music course.
4. Visit the institution offering the course and meet the staff and see the facilities.
Understand the nature of the courses you are considering by asking questions, especially when requesting a specific course. Be sure to ask the following questions:
– How connected is the course to the music industry (eg industry guest readings, job placement opportunities, etc.)?
– Do the faculty and staff have industry experience?
– What are the course facilities like (eg studios, rehearsal rooms, concert hall, teaching areas, libraries, research and development center)?
– Are there performance opportunities, eg bands, chamber and complete orchestras at special events, etc.?
– What are the opportunities to progress to higher level courses upon completion of qualification / training?
– Are students free to specialize within the course, for example take performance / composition / business as main parts of the course? Can students work on their own extended projects under the direction of the staff?
– Does the course teach business skills? Anyone entering the music industry must understand the business side. Sales, marketing, people and project management, finance and promotion skills are particularly valuable.
– How is the teaching? Are the small, intimate classes where everyone has a personal tutor in case something goes wrong?
– What careers have previous students had after completing the course? Is the rating held in high regard when viewed by potential employers in the music industry?
If possible, it is also worth talking to a professional musician or music teacher you know because they will be able to identify the possibilities available. Not only this, they will also be able to give you an idea of what to expect when you complete your course and start looking for work.