Klarinet Archive - Posting 000200.txt from 2002/06
From: "Steve White" <bass.clarinet@-----.net>
Subj: RE: [kl] Majoring in Clarinet Performance
Date: Thu, 6 Jun 2002 11:08:04 -0400
Many musicians take several routes. I have an MBA in finance as well as my
BM in Clarinet Performance. The reality is: There are fewer and fewer
well-paying ensembles where a musician can make enough to support themselves
every year. This increases competition for viable positions dramatically.
Don't get me wrong, you can still score a great gig with a top level
symphony or chamber orchestra, but the odds continually shift away younger
players . I made a choice to pursue the business side of my character and
am doing that now. However I have also made an agreement with myself that I
will study arts management in the hopes of saving ensembles and other
performing groups.
I don't know if any of this information will help clear up your dilemma, or
make it cloudier still. I just wanted you to know that there are many
others who have had to grapple with the same choices. My deciding factor
was the fact that my wife and child had to eat. Attempting the musician
lifestyle while you are in school will give you a greater understanding of
what it takes and how it works. Do it now before you have other commitments
that could re-focus your time and energy to other matters.
Sorry, too much of a lecture there, I'm really just trying to help.
Steve White
BM Northern Arizona University
MBA National University
-----Original Message-----
From: Hornz96@-----.com]
Subject: Re: [kl] Majoring in Clarinet Performance
Hi Annie, or anyone else on the list whose had major clarinet
training(studies), Do you ever regret majoring in clarinet performance?
I'm a music/business major freshman in college. I've been told that I
could become a very good musician, but I've also been told I could be a very
good businessman. I love playing clarinet and will continue to do so
throughout the rest of my life. Having a career as a symphony player would
be a very rewarding "job". That's something that I was shooting for before
I
added business as a double major (the business world interests me as well).
It's unfortunate that I feel like I would never "make it". The possiblities
of finding a such a gig are very difficult; the competition is stiff. But,
something in the back of my mind tells me that I might, if I really try.
So,
I battle constantly between majoring in clarinet performance or in
business
administration. Did some of you on the list have mixed feelings pursuing
the
clarinet instead of another interest that might make you more money? Do you
regret, perhaps spending money/time on that education? What made you make
up
your mind? Thank you all!
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