In today’s music industry, there is an ever-growing demand for talented musicians, music producers, sound engineers, and other creative professionals. At the same time, the cost of obtaining a music degree can be quite high. With the uncertainty of the industry and the growing cost of music school, many aspiring musicians are asking themselves, “Is a music major really worth it?” Deciding whether or not to pursue a college degree in music can be a difficult decision to make, but it is important to consider all of your options. This blog post will explore the pros and cons of pursuing a music major and whether or not it is a worthwhile investment. We will look at the cost and potential payoff of such a degree, as well as the career opportunities available for those who choose to pursue a music major. Whether you are an aspiring musician or just curious about the potential of a music major, this blog post is sure to provide some valuable insight.
Music Degrees Are Basically USELESS
Why is being a music major worth it?
If you are passionate about music and can dedicate yourself to getting your degree, majoring in music is worth it. As a music major, you have a variety of options, including performing arts careers and administrative positions. There are numerous opportunities to express your musical creativity and find a rewarding career, whether you want to sing professionally on a cruise ship or instruct young children in choir songs at an elementary school. As a music major, picking a distinctive concentration can also assist you in living the lifestyle you desire and inspiring others through your artistic expression.
Here are some additional arguments in favor of majoring in music:
What is a music major?
For students who want to pursue a musical career, a liberal arts degree with a music major is available. When a student declares music as their major, they have the option to specialize after exploring a variety of different fields. Many students learn the basics of music history, theory, and composition during their coursework. Their understanding will be expanded as a result of this in-depth knowledge, enabling them to pursue their chosen profession as perceptive and considerate professionals.
During their time in a music program, these students gain a variety of skills, including commitment, teamwork, creativity, organization, and organization. As they gain proficiency on an instrument, they might have a greater appreciation for music from a technical and performance standpoint. The specific university experience of a music major can also differ greatly depending on the school, the courses, and the professors. Since no two music programs are exactly alike, students can anticipate learning specific lessons pertaining to their chosen curriculum.
What courses does a music major take?
Depending on their school and specialized program, music majors typically take different courses. Many students take the same core courses, which may include:
What are the types of music majors?
You can major in music in a variety of ways as a student.
Musical theater
The techniques and principles of music, theater, and dance are combined in this major to produce a cohesive performance. Students who pursue this academic path frequently enroll in a variety of courses, such as musical theater history, singing, acting, and set design. Depending on the particular programs offered by each school, these students’ specific course options may vary. For instance, some musical theater programs also offer ballet or modern dance as specializations.
Music education
Students majoring in music can acquire the knowledge and practical abilities required to instruct students in an academic setting. Most students learn the basics of music during their first year, but many then concentrate on a specialization, such as learning a particular instrument or taking choral lessons. A major in music education might also focus on music history and how to effectively and entertainingly communicate that knowledge.
Songwriting
A songwriting major learns how to create songs that incorporate important musical ideas and convey emotion. Depending on their preferences, students may concentrate on a specific option while learning how to use a variety of styles and genres. They can pick up tips on how to write lyrics that go well with their musical compositions and learn about common songwriting formats. Majors in songwriting might also learn about musical instruments, recording software, and current trends in the music business.
Instrumental performance
Students interested in a career in performing music, such as instrumentalists and singers, should major in this field. Over the course of a program, students typically improve their performance abilities and have opportunities to advance in a musical specialization. They can become knowledgeable about their instrument’s mechanics, like tone and pitch. Many students of the performing arts look for employment opportunities in professional choirs, symphonies, orchestras, bands, or opera houses.
Music business and management
This major instructs students on the fundamentals of the music business from the viewpoint of artists. Students are instructed on how to handle various monetary and legal circumstances in the industry. For instance, they might learn how to use copyright laws in the music industry or how to use online streaming services to monetize recordings. Additionally, they can concentrate on academic programs in business management, music production, and corporate management.
Music technology and audio design
Music technology majors learn how to use modern audio-manipulation software. Students can master the use of technology to produce unique musical compositions. Professionals frequently use the Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) to connect digital instruments, computer software, and audio recording equipment. In this major, these students can investigate a wide variety of topics, including acoustical engineering, track remixing, and film scoring.
Music therapy
Students learn about the connections between music and neurobehavioral science in this specialized major. Students gain knowledge of how to use musical sounds to help patients with their emotional problems, providing them with psychological relief from a trying circumstance. They frequently enroll in courses in psychology, human development, and music theory to complement their training in therapeutic methods.
What can you do with a music degree?
With a music degree, you can work in a variety of fields, such as the ones listed below. Please click on the links below for the most recent salaries:
Their main responsibilities include playing a particular instrument in a big orchestra band. They frequently concentrate on classical music and play a variety of instruments, such as violins, cellos, flutes, bass, clarinets, and pianos. They frequently train with other orchestra members or record music for mass production during the course of a workday. Throughout their careers, these experts may visit various locations or venues while performing, typically in a specialized auditorium.
A music manager’s main responsibilities include helping to manage a musician’s assets, such as any compositions or promotional products they can sell. These people are frequently in charge of comprehending intellectual property law, creating budgets and licensing procedures, and making sure that all published information is accurate. Additionally, they evaluate each track to address any issues with creative ownership raised by other experts. Numerous organizations, such as television production companies, theater companies, and performance venues, offer job opportunities for music managers.
A songwriter’s main responsibilities include writing the lyrics and melodies for songs. These musicians could write music for different genres, such as pop, country, or alternative. A lot of songwriters are independent contractors who write commercial jingles or songs for singers to perform. They can also work as full-time staff writers for an organization, which would provide them with benefits like health insurance and a consistent wage. A lot of songwriters also perform their own songs, which means they can also find work as musicians.
A music teacher’s main responsibilities include instructing students in fundamental musical ideas, performance techniques, and creative expression. Many professionals specialize in a particular field, such as teaching music or singing to students. They can impart knowledge to individuals during one-on-one tutoring sessions or instruct a group of students in a classroom setting. In addition to working for schools, musical academies, or nonprofit organizations, music teachers may also provide private instruction to specific students.
Primary responsibilities: Music therapists are specialists who use sounds to help patients heal emotionally. Depending on the methods a specialist uses, a music therapy session can differ. Some music therapists, for instance, might ask their patients to sing a particular song or play an instrument with a calming sound. Other professionals might use their own musical talent. They can find employment opportunities in a range of establishments, including hospitals, mental health facilities, nursing homes, educational facilities, and detention facilities. They could start their own private practice and see patients on an individual basis.
Primary responsibilities: Audio engineers are music industry professionals who assist in creating audio for live performances or recordings using current technology. They frequently manipulate sounds and give them special qualities using skillful methods. They are skilled at modifying audio using a variety of tools, including equalizers, audio effects software, auto-tuning, and mixing. Jobs for audio engineers are available in recording studios, concert halls, and broadcasting companies.
FAQ
Is being a music major hard?
We won’t lie to you: studying music requires a lot of effort. We wanted to give you six things to expect as a music major and how you can be ready for them because sometimes all we need is a little preparation in order to excel. However, it’s the best kind of hard work because it’s incredibly rewarding!
Can you make money as a music major?
A music major’s annual salary in the US is on average $47,301. With an average total compensation that is 50% higher than the US average, music majors in San Francisco, California, make the most money at $71,183.
What does a music major get you?
Performer (solo vocalist and/or instrumentalist, session musician, band/orchestra member, musician in the background, performing artist, show band)
Is music education a good career?
The employment rate of music teachers is expected to increase by 12 percent between 2016 and 2026, indicating a healthy job market overall for those working in the field. Additionally, music educators and administrators can take the initiative to forge opportunities that would not have been possible without their passion and dedication to their students.
