Tips on how to choose the right music course for a career in the music industry

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Selecting the right music course is crucial. For some, the goal is to enter the music industry as a recording artist in a label or other related role, others to play in a band or orchestra or to become teachers. of music. The choices are wide and it can be intimidating knowing that you are going to invest a good chunk of your life and money in something that you are not sure about the outcome of. It may sound like a bet.

Besides talent (this is a must), getting a job in the music industry requires skills and experience (if you’re lucky enough to get an internship or internship) in addition to a qualification. 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 continued investment in your instrument as well as private lessons during your studies. If you intend to apply to a top institution that has industry connections, be aware of the high fees charged.

In general, most institutions seek some level of performance in vocal and instrumental skills and sometimes composition skills.

Here are some ideas for choosing the best music lesson:

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? Check out education and industry directories which provide insight into different industries, job specifications, etc. Also consult all the advice and guidance pages. If you are planning to do a degree, the main 2 are BA in Music and BMus. You may find that some universities offer both a BA and a BMus course. Although both are general music courses, the bachelor’s degree course normally follows a wider range of subjects, including more academic subjects like music history or analysis.

BMus courses, on the other hand, are more hands-on. They usually contain more elements of performance and composition. You should compare course details at individual universities for an exact comparison.

2. If you are applying to a university or college, know that they want the best candidates as much as you want to study there.

Therefore, do your research. When considering a university / college, consider:

– if you want to stay close to your family or move as far as possible
– big city or small town? What is social life like?
– see how long the price has been established
– what are the entry conditions necessary to be accepted?
– do they receive visits from people working in the industry?
– are current students satisfied with their courses there?
– what was the feedback of former graduates on the course? How many of them got good jobs when they left?

3. You can help yourself by applying to as many relevant proposals as possible.

Be aware that competition for seats means that many music lessons are over-subscribed. In addition, there are a large number of different music courses available at universities. If you’ve already decided on your career path, it’s worth considering a specialty music course. If you want to keep your options open, choose a general music class.

4. Visit the institution offering the course, meet the staff and learn about the facilities.

Understand the nature of the courses you are considering by asking questions, especially when applying for a specific course. Be sure to ask the following questions:

– How connected is the course to the music industry (e.g. industry guest lectures, internship opportunities, etc.)?
– Do teachers and staff have backgrounds in the industry?
– What are the course facilities like (eg studios, rehearsal rooms, concert hall, teaching rooms, libraries, research and development center)?
– Are there any opportunities to perform, for example groups, chamber orchestras and full orchestras at special events, etc.
– What are the opportunities for progression to higher level courses after the qualification / training?
– Do the students have the freedom to specialize in the course, for example taking performance / composition / business as main parts of it? 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 needs to understand the business side. Skills in sales, marketing, people and project management, finance and promotion are especially valuable.
– What does teaching look like? Are the classes small and intimate where everyone has a personal tutor in case something goes wrong?
– What are the careers of former students after completing the course? Is the qualification held in high regard when seen by potential employers in the music industry?

If possible, it’s also worth talking with a professional musician or music teacher you know as they will be able to identify the possibilities available. Not only that, they’ll also be able to give you an overview of what to expect when you finish your course and start looking for a job.

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Source by Ugo Onwutalu

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