Should I go to Music School?

Aug 1

Aw man, going to music school is a hell of a beast! But from personal experience, it has been one of the most rewarding experiences, I’ve ever done. I am a first generation college grad— meaning, no one in my past generations have completed college. It is such a complicated and beautiful thing to navigate. But if I could go back, I wouldn’t have changed my decision, but I would have prepped myself for that decision. Choosing music as a career is a significant decision… There’s a lot of ambiguity, especially compared to “typical” path.

Young or old, aspiring musician, composer, music historian, producer, music business nerd (me), music enthusiast, all of the above or undecided, I’m here to give you my humble opinion!

The answer to "Should I go to music school?" is,

It depends

Don’t roll your eyes at me. This is true with any career path. You need to explore and evaluate things that you like, things you aspire to be, and look at your finances. People don’t tell you this, but life is full of grey areas. Nothing is completely black and white. But per usual, I’m here to help you figure it out. By carefully considering and analyzing a multitude of different factors that may come into play, you can ultimately arrive at a well-informed decision that closely corresponds with your individual goals, ambitions, and long-term aspirations.

The Pros and Cons of Going to Music School

The Pros of Music School

Structured Learning

Music schools offer a structured curriculum designed to build a strong foundation in theory, technique, and performance. This structured approach can accelerate your learning process and provide a comprehensive understanding of music.

Experienced Faculty

Music schools often boast a faculty of experienced instructors, many of whom are accomplished musicians themselves. Learning from these experts can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and networking opportunities.

Access to Resources

Music schools provide access to state-of-the-art facilities, practice rooms, recording studios, and performance spaces. These resources can enhance your musical growth and provide practical experience in various aspects of music production.

Networking

Music schools offer a unique environment for building connections with fellow musicians, composers, and industry professionals. These connections can lead to collaborations, performance opportunities, and a supportive community.

Performance Opportunities

Music schools frequently organize recitals, concerts, and ensemble performances, allowing you to showcase your skills and gain stage experience.

The Cons of Music School

Financial Investment

Pursuing a music education can be expensive, considering tuition, fees, and other associated costs. It's essential to weigh the potential financial burden against the benefits of attending music school.

Time Commitment

Music school programs can be time-consuming, requiring hours of practice, coursework, and rehearsals. Balancing academic commitments with personal life can be challenging.

Lack of Individualization

Some music school programs have a standardized curriculum that may not cater to your specific musical interests or goals. This lack of customization could limit your artistic exploration.

Changing Industry Landscape

The music industry is evolving rapidly due to technological advancements and shifting trends. Traditional music education may not fully prepare you for the diverse career paths available in the modern music landscape.

Success Not Guaranteed

Attending music school doesn't guarantee success in the music industry. Success often depends on factors like talent, dedication, networking, and adaptability to the ever-changing industry.

Making the Decision

The decision to attend music school should be based on a thorough evaluation of your goals, circumstances, and personal preferences. Consider the following questions:

- What are your career goals in music? Do they align with the opportunities provided by music school?

- Are you prepared for the financial investment and potential student loan debt?

- How important is formal education compared to self-directed learning and practical experience?

- Are you open to exploring alternative paths, such as online music courses, workshops, and industry networking?

- Do you value the structured environment and resources that music schools offer?

Ultimately, the decision should reflect your passion for music, your willingness to invest time and effort, and your determination to succeed in a competitive industry.

Deciding whether to pursue music school is a personal journey that requires careful consideration. While music school can offer valuable resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities, it's essential to balance these advantages against the financial and time commitments. Remember that success in the music industry is multifaceted, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. By thoroughly evaluating your goals and options, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your aspirations and sets you on a fulfilling musical path.