the basics
What's it like to be a musician?
Overview
For students passionate about pursuing music, there are many different paths to success but similar steps to achieve it. One very rewarding career is teaching music. Music teachers are not only seen as musicians but also teachers, advisors, and trusted adults. They work with students and must be ready to motivate and discipline them. However, like most musician jobs, there isn’t always a 9-5 schedule or a set number of tasks to do. The best thing for aspiring music teachers to do is to continuously practice their instrument and try to improve. They should also be flexible since no musician’s life is the same. Some days music teachers may be practicing, learning, and auditioning while other days they may be performing, conducting, and teaching. No matter what direction a musician chooses, it can be very rewarding to turn passion into a future.
Requirements
To become a music teacher, the basic requirement is to practice an instrument. There is no degree that is mandatory, but oftentimes musicians choose to major in music theory, music performance, or music education to eventually become a conductor or an instructor. These degrees should be accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. As musicians continuously improve their craft and skills, they need to get exposure by attending auditions, performing, or producing their own music. Throughout it all, they must strive to reach their goals, cope with the setbacks, and meet them with dedication and grit.
What Can High School Students Do?
- Enroll in a school with conservatories that specialize in your instrument/art
- OSCA application: https://www.ocsarts.net/applynow
- Practice everyday
- Perform publicly to get exposure at senior centers, talent shows, competitions, etc.
- Join a band, orchestra, or choir inside or outside of school
- Take music theory to gain a better understanding of your instrument
- Free music theory class: https://www.udemy.com/course/music-theory-classes/
- Join a music summer camp (marching band, specialized camps)
- Check this website out for camps near you: https://majoringinmusic.com/summer-music-camps/#1505943634635-d10780d0-0182
Please check out the sources below, they have links connecting more websites to further your research!
- https://www.academiccourses.com/article/how-to-become-a-professional-musician/
- https://learn.org/articles/What_Degree_Do_I_Need_to_Become_a_Musician.html#:~:text=Musician%20Education%20Overview,individuals%20develop%20the%20skills%20needed.&text=For%20example%2C%20composers%20and%20music,teachers%20must%20hold%20graduate%20degrees.
