undergraduate
Music performance
Best schools with music performance
What is a music performance major?
This curriculum instructs individuals in mastering musical instruments and performing art as solo and/or ensemble performers. It includes instruction on one or more specific instruments from various instrumental groupings such as voice and opera, stringed instruments, brass instruments, etc.
of students said the outlet for creativity was a highlight of this major.
of students found this major to be difficult.
of students said they were motivated to select this major because it fit their passion & interest.
of students and alumni plan on being or are currently employed in an occupation related to this major.
How much do music performance majors make?
This data isn't currently reported, but we're working on it!
The most common starting salary of surveyed students after graduation is less than $30,000.
How popular is music performance as a major?
Each year, around 4,270 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 330 students obtain an associate degree in music performance. In 2021, 4,124 students received a bachelor's degree and 244 students received an associate degree. This is 5% fewer music performance majors than there were in 2020. Music performance is one of the most popular majors within music.
Advice from music performance majors
Share your experienceUnderstand that you will be doing many different things for income. You also may still have a regular job while doing music stuff. Just keep working hard and eventually you will make it in whatever industry you want.
From the very start, take your music classes seriously. Theory, Ear training, fundamentals, and specifically your lessons to the max. Push yourself from being comfortable with what you l ow into learning to what you’re capable of without limits. Take your common core classes seriously especially your least favorite subjects since they’re the make or break of your COLLEGE GPA and determine if you’ll graduate sooner or later. Be interactive with your colleagues, but I’d personally suggest making friends away from work to where you won’t mix the two together even when it’s fun. You can get a lot of progress done together. There is no time like the present than to make yourself and your colleagues push for success and then the rest will follow.
Do not give up your social life just to practice and improve. You may be here to learn and make a career out of your passion, but you need to give your brain and body some breaks from the daily routine and the "grind" and hard work you put to your instrument. Rest is part of the process, but also do not lose sight of your goals. Continue to work hard in moderation, that is how you improve. Some times practicing too much will not help, so you need a break, but you must still practice enough to improve steadily. Have a practice schedule and give yourself breaks in the week, at least one day where you do not practice your instrument so you give yourself a break.
If you want to fulfill the music dream after college, pursue in an agent and have patience. Big things are coming and every disappointment is a gateway to successful.
