Benefits of Having a Music Degree
Music is no easy profession. While many have the belief that you do not need to formally study music, I'd like to share some of the benefits of having a degree in music, including where your studies may lead you and what doors may open upon completing a bachelors or masters degree in music.
Benefits while studying
- Formalized curricula and direct instruction designed and delivered by some of the finest music teachers and artists in performing, writing, and recording
- Unique collaborations with other students from across the world, from all genres of music
- Access to world-class facilities including practice rooms, ensemble spaces, performance halls, music libraries, instrument rentals, and school radio stations
- Exposure to the community & industry contacts through performances, work showcases, master classes, internships, and field trips
- Broadened horizons through opportunities to take classes in new subjects or disciplines such as songwriting and composition, music production, music therapy, business, or even learning an entirely new instrument
Benefits upon graduation
- An alumni network with your school that usually includes events, discounts, career services, and networking opportunities you can take advantage of for the rest of your life
- Recognized qualifications and credentials to apply for music careers such as:
- K-12 teacher or private instructor
- Band leader, conductor
- Session player, background singer
- Songwriter, film & video game composer
- Music producer, sound engineer
- Business manager or agent, record label associate or executive
- DJ, music arranger
- (The list truly goes on endlessly)
- Instruction, industry knowledge, and materials to get your career up and running; if are solely looking to become your own artist, you will have the resources to find and develop your own artistry
- Industry respect and trust from people who may invest in your services; where as if you do not have a degree, some people may doubt your credentials, skills, and ability to work in a professional setting
While having a degree does not guarantee you 100% success in the music industry after graduation, and while many musicians have become successful without having a degree, in the long run having a degree can help provide access that you may not be able to achieve otherwise. Some jobs or professions directly use a bachelors degree as the minimum requirement for screening purposes.
If you are not sure about whether a music degree is right for you, there are many teachers here on Lessonface that can help and guide you on making the decision that’s best for you. If studying in a music degree program is not the best option for you financially or because of other commitments then I encourage you to still study, take lessons on your own, write, and perform as much as you can.
Happy Studying!
Liz Turner is a vocal coach and mezzo-soprano vocalist specializing in classical, Broadway, jazz and contemporary music. She is a graduate of Berklee College of Music with a B.M. in Voice. Click here to learn more and book a lesson with Liz.