Musicians

High School

If you are interested in becoming a musician, you will probably have begun to develop your musical skills long before you entered high school. While you are in high school, however, there are a number of classes you can take that will help you broaden your knowledge. Naturally, take band, orchestra, or choir classes depending on your interest. In addition, you should also take mathematics classes, since any musician needs to understand counting, rhythms, and beats. Many professional musicians write at least some of their own music, and a strong math background is very helpful for this. If your high school offers courses in music history or appreciation, be sure to take these. Finally, take classes that will improve your communication skills and your understanding of people and emotions, such as English and psychology. If you are interested in working in the classical music field, you will most likely need a college degree to succeed in this area. Therefore, be sure to round out your high school education by taking other college preparatory classes. No matter what type of musician you want to be, you will need to devote much of your after-school time to your private study and practice of music.

Postsecondary Training

Depending on your interest, especially if it is popular music, further formal education is not required. College or conservatory degrees are only required for those who plan to teach in institutions. Nevertheless, you will only benefit from continued education.

Scores of colleges and universities have excellent music schools, and there are numerous conservatories that offer degrees in music. Many schools have noted musicians on their staff, and music students often have the advantage of studying under a professor who has a distinguished career in music. By studying with someone like this, you will not only learn more about music and performance, but you will also begin to make valuable connections in the field. You should know that having talent and a high grade point average does not always ensure entry into the top music schools. Competition for positions is extremely tough. You will probably have to audition, and only the most talented are accepted.

College undergraduates in music school generally take courses in music theory, harmony, counterpoint, rhythm, melody, ear training, applied music, and music history. Courses in composing, arranging, and conducting are available in most comprehensive music schools. Students will also have to take courses such as English and psychology along with a regular academic program.

The National Association of Schools of Music is an organization of nearly 630 accredited schools, colleges, and universities that provide music education. Visit its Web site, https://nasm.arts-accredit.org/directory-lists/accredited-institutions, for a listing of NASM-accredited institutions.

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer certificate programs in music performance, music history, music education, and related areas. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

The American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers Foundation offers workshops that cover topics such as songwriting, film scoring, and musical theatre scoring. Visit https://www.ascap.com/help/career-development/workshops for more information. The Society of Composers & Lyricists (https://thescl.com/seminars) offers seminars and other continuing education opportunities on music technology, industry trends, and other topics. The Songwriters Guild of America (https://www.songwritersguild.com) provides songwriting workshops in a variety of cities. Contact these organizations for more information.