 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: DC02
Date: 2001-01-02 23:20
Hi everyone! I figure most of you who read this board are older musicians who have already been through a college education, so I guess this is a good place to ask. I'm a junior in high school and starting to look at colleges. I would love to play and study clarinet in college, but I don't think that I want that to be my primary major. I'd really appreciate it if you could name some colleges with excellent music programs but still offer a wide range of other academics. Thanks.
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Author: William
Date: 2001-01-03 14:28
Most colleges have good music programs where undergraduate students can participate. Many, however, give preference to music majors when selecting members for their "top" perfomance groups. As for clarinet lessons, many college and universities restrict enrollment to music majors only. My advice, therefore, is to first choose a program of study or a professional goal, then pick a university, college, or even a tech school that best serves that academic need. Clarinet lessons may not be available, but there will certainly be an opportunity to participate in a challenging performance group. IMHO, The University of Wisconsin--Madison should be considered. Good luck and good clarineting from one of those "older" musicians who has "been there, done that...."
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Author: Ken Shaw
Date: 2001-01-03 16:29
CD02 -
If you're comfortable in a large university, any of them will have plenty of chances to do academics and music. Indiana University, for example, has a very large music program, though I don't know anyone who has gone there who loved the place.
The University of Rochester is connected with Eastman, and I believe that several people on the board have taken courses at both simultaneously.
Some truly excellent musicians have come out of MIT, where there's lots of music as well as math and physics.
I went to Oberlin, which has a top college and an excellent conservatory, with lots of people taking courses in both.
When you go off to college, it's impossible to predict what will capture your imagination. To repeat a story I've told here several times, my freshman roommate had a 5-year dual major math and engineering degree all planned out. He graduated with a major in medieval German literature.
Music is the best possible major, but one of the worst ways to make a living. Unless you have exceptional talent and exceptional drive and single-mindedness, you will not make your living as a performing musician. I think you're wise to recognize this, but don't let it stop you from pursuing a music minor or major. Playing an instrument well requires mastering a complex skill and keeping at it over a course of years. Learning to *do* something, rather than just "appreciating" it, is an accomplishment that will stand you in good stead.
You're on the threshhold of a great adventure. You'll know what to do when you get there.
Best regards.
Ken Shaw
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Author: Julia
Date: 2001-01-03 18:56
It's great...to echo what Ken said. One thing to remember is that there are more things than just music performance to major in: music education, there's also music industry, or just a B.A of fine arts music emphasis at some schools. Also, remember that you can also minor in music. keep your options open, and keep playing ---that way you'll be fine.
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