8 answers
Stephanie
Student
Hong Kong
1
Question
Asked
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I wanted to start a music career but not sure if I should continue right now
#career-counseling #career-development #career-path #music
#asian
I’m from Hong Kong and I want to study undergraduate program in US. Preparing for Toefl and DSE right now. I like music and wanted to make it as my career, but other than that I also want to study one extra subject in college. #music-industry
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8 answers
Ro L
Career Services
57
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Ro’s Answer
If music if your passion, then keep it as your personal goal, but prepare to also be flexible. Some people want to sing and be a professional musician, but later find that they really like writing songs, or really like the production aspect more than performing. It is unclear from your post which area of the music industry you wanted to start a career in, but the music industry is vast: from contracts, recording/production, marketing, etc. Depending on your area, you could choose a major specific to you once you're accepted into a college.
Right now your focus should be getting your grades and TEOFL score in order, and choosing a school or state you want to attend college at. Next, keep up to date on the COVID19 situation and the Immigration policies that may affect your status as an international student. You don't have to pursue music only in the US, I'm sure that HK has vast opportunities as well. For the immediate future, your academic side should be your focus. Once you get accepted into the school of your choice (maybe with a good music program?) then you could choose a subject/major that will put you on the path to your desired career. Doing what you love is an amazing experience, but remember to take the necessary steps in front of you first! I wish you the best of luck!
Right now your focus should be getting your grades and TEOFL score in order, and choosing a school or state you want to attend college at. Next, keep up to date on the COVID19 situation and the Immigration policies that may affect your status as an international student. You don't have to pursue music only in the US, I'm sure that HK has vast opportunities as well. For the immediate future, your academic side should be your focus. Once you get accepted into the school of your choice (maybe with a good music program?) then you could choose a subject/major that will put you on the path to your desired career. Doing what you love is an amazing experience, but remember to take the necessary steps in front of you first! I wish you the best of luck!
I totally agree with Ro..... well put. I've been playing over 40 years and have been many places I wouldn't have seen if it wasn't for the music. It has been my passion since I was young. If it is yours...... follow it. Best wishes. :)
Kevin Stiles
Robbin Koenig
Teacher/Tutor
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Robbin’s Answer
There are many facets to the music industry. If you have an interest in law, then you can attend an American law school that has an entertainment law specialty. If you like working with numbers, you can enter the field with a CPA, accounting background, or finance background. It is a good idea to study these subjects in a school that has a music business major because the finance side is very industry specific. The latter would apply to the American music business industry because other parts of the world handles the business side very differently.
If you are concentrating on performance, then the audition is very important. Contact the school that you wish to attend for audition requirements and then spend about a year in preparation. Many American colleges are moving towards classes on an online platform due to the global pandemic. Unfortunately, music performance is one of the most difficult majors to study exclusively online.
Look at the websites of all the schools that interest you. Note their admission requirements for foreign students.
If you are concentrating on performance, then the audition is very important. Contact the school that you wish to attend for audition requirements and then spend about a year in preparation. Many American colleges are moving towards classes on an online platform due to the global pandemic. Unfortunately, music performance is one of the most difficult majors to study exclusively online.
Robbin recommends the following next steps:
Eliandra Vargas Machado
Product Support
4
Answers
São Leopoldo, State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Updated
Eliandra’s Answer
You have time and you can take as many courses as you want. It is important to keep one thing in mind, any profession you choose has to dedicate yourself and be an entrepreneur in your field, especially music I believe. So it's nice to study the environments and think about what will be good for you and make you happy at the same time.
I'll give you an example, I love to sing, but for me this is a hobby now, it doesn't mean that in the future I can't change my mind.
You have infinite possibilities, you can change the direction whenever you want.
Trace a path to be able to do all the things you want, in a short or long time. Good luck!
I'll give you an example, I love to sing, but for me this is a hobby now, it doesn't mean that in the future I can't change my mind.
You have infinite possibilities, you can change the direction whenever you want.
Trace a path to be able to do all the things you want, in a short or long time. Good luck!
Ragon Linde, PE
Sr Manager - Network Assurance
10
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Ragon’s Answer
The route I took was to pursue a degree in electrical engineering and also take elective music classes. That was 30 years ago lol. I am still an active musician and recording artist and also work as an engineering manager for Verizon. Having the financial flexibility has allowed me to fund numerous opportunities in my music endeavors that I could not have done otherwise. Remember there is no one size fits all approach. Listen to your dreams though and good luck!
Crystal Zheng
Product Manager
20
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Crystal’s Answer
You can always do baby steps towards a career that you desire! For example, if you are really passionate about music and want to know if it's a feasible career for you, make a Youtube, soundcloud, and/or spotify accounts and release your music on those platforms to see how the reception is. That way you have a portfolio you can point to and a way to keep track of all the things you are creating.
Alexis Choi
Product Management
7
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Alexis’s Answer
Hey Stephanie!
First, I would suggest to identify what are of music you want to pursue. Is it that you want to be a performer? or any role (business, analytics, operations, stage artist, etc.) in the music industry? Identifying such will help you find what you want to focus on in college and have success in finding a career path after that can involve your passion of music.
My sibling has pursued a major in music in the past so I know that finding a 'career' in music just as a performer is tough. So having that flexibility of what role(s) you want to take on in the industry would be very helpful for you in the short-term (deciding another major) and in the long-term (securing a job)!
First, I would suggest to identify what are of music you want to pursue. Is it that you want to be a performer? or any role (business, analytics, operations, stage artist, etc.) in the music industry? Identifying such will help you find what you want to focus on in college and have success in finding a career path after that can involve your passion of music.
My sibling has pursued a major in music in the past so I know that finding a 'career' in music just as a performer is tough. So having that flexibility of what role(s) you want to take on in the industry would be very helpful for you in the short-term (deciding another major) and in the long-term (securing a job)!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Stepanie!
Starting a music career can be an exciting and fulfilling path, but it is important to carefully consider various factors before making a decision. Here are some key points to consider when deciding whether to pursue a music career at this time:
1. Passion and Commitment: The first and most crucial aspect to consider is your passion for music. Ask yourself if you have a genuine love for music and if you are willing to dedicate significant time and effort to develop your skills and knowledge in this field. A successful music career often requires long hours of practice, continuous learning, and perseverance in the face of challenges.
2. Talent and Skill Development: Assess your current level of talent and skill in music. While talent is important, it is equally essential to continuously develop your skills through training, education, and practice. Consider taking music lessons, joining local bands or ensembles, participating in workshops or masterclasses, and seeking mentorship from experienced musicians. This will help you refine your abilities and gain valuable experience.
3. Education and Training: Although not mandatory for a music career, obtaining formal education in music can provide a strong foundation and open doors to various opportunities. Research different undergraduate programs that offer music degrees or concentrations that align with your interests and goals. Look for reputable institutions with strong music departments, experienced faculty members, performance opportunities, and access to industry connections.
4. Diversifying Your Skills: While pursuing a music career, it can be beneficial to study an additional subject in college. This will allow you to broaden your knowledge base, acquire transferable skills, and potentially explore alternative career paths if needed. Consider subjects such as business, marketing, audio engineering, or arts administration that complement your musical aspirations.
5. Industry Realities: It is important to have a realistic understanding of the music industry's challenges and demands. The industry can be highly competitive, with limited job security and financial stability for many musicians. Research the current state of the music industry, trends, and potential career paths within it. Networking with professionals in the field and seeking advice from established musicians can provide valuable insights into the realities of a music career.
6. Financial Considerations: Consider the financial implications of pursuing a music career. While some musicians achieve great success and financial stability, it can take time to establish oneself in the industry. It is crucial to have a backup plan or alternative sources of income while building your music career. Additionally, research scholarships, grants, and financial aid options available for music students to help alleviate the financial burden of education.
7. Support System: Evaluate your support system, including family, friends, and mentors who can provide guidance and encouragement throughout your journey. Surrounding yourself with individuals who believe in your talent and aspirations can be invaluable during challenging times.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue a music career is deeply personal and should be based on a combination of passion, talent, dedication, realistic expectations, and careful consideration of various factors. It may be helpful to consult with career counselors or professionals in the music industry who can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. Berklee College of Music - www.berklee.edu
2. The Juilliard School - www.juilliard.edu
3. Billboard - www.billboard.com
GOD BLESS!
Starting a music career can be an exciting and fulfilling path, but it is important to carefully consider various factors before making a decision. Here are some key points to consider when deciding whether to pursue a music career at this time:
1. Passion and Commitment: The first and most crucial aspect to consider is your passion for music. Ask yourself if you have a genuine love for music and if you are willing to dedicate significant time and effort to develop your skills and knowledge in this field. A successful music career often requires long hours of practice, continuous learning, and perseverance in the face of challenges.
2. Talent and Skill Development: Assess your current level of talent and skill in music. While talent is important, it is equally essential to continuously develop your skills through training, education, and practice. Consider taking music lessons, joining local bands or ensembles, participating in workshops or masterclasses, and seeking mentorship from experienced musicians. This will help you refine your abilities and gain valuable experience.
3. Education and Training: Although not mandatory for a music career, obtaining formal education in music can provide a strong foundation and open doors to various opportunities. Research different undergraduate programs that offer music degrees or concentrations that align with your interests and goals. Look for reputable institutions with strong music departments, experienced faculty members, performance opportunities, and access to industry connections.
4. Diversifying Your Skills: While pursuing a music career, it can be beneficial to study an additional subject in college. This will allow you to broaden your knowledge base, acquire transferable skills, and potentially explore alternative career paths if needed. Consider subjects such as business, marketing, audio engineering, or arts administration that complement your musical aspirations.
5. Industry Realities: It is important to have a realistic understanding of the music industry's challenges and demands. The industry can be highly competitive, with limited job security and financial stability for many musicians. Research the current state of the music industry, trends, and potential career paths within it. Networking with professionals in the field and seeking advice from established musicians can provide valuable insights into the realities of a music career.
6. Financial Considerations: Consider the financial implications of pursuing a music career. While some musicians achieve great success and financial stability, it can take time to establish oneself in the industry. It is crucial to have a backup plan or alternative sources of income while building your music career. Additionally, research scholarships, grants, and financial aid options available for music students to help alleviate the financial burden of education.
7. Support System: Evaluate your support system, including family, friends, and mentors who can provide guidance and encouragement throughout your journey. Surrounding yourself with individuals who believe in your talent and aspirations can be invaluable during challenging times.
Ultimately, the decision to pursue a music career is deeply personal and should be based on a combination of passion, talent, dedication, realistic expectations, and careful consideration of various factors. It may be helpful to consult with career counselors or professionals in the music industry who can provide guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used:
1. Berklee College of Music - www.berklee.edu
2. The Juilliard School - www.juilliard.edu
3. Billboard - www.billboard.com
GOD BLESS!
Melisa Cameron
Sr. Project Program Mgr., AT&T Community Engagement
167
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Melisa’s Answer
Hi Stephanie,
You already have some great answers here so I’ll just add some resources you may find helpful in learning more about careers in music.
Similar to what Eliandra shared, music is a hobby for me right now and I did major in music my first couple of years in college, then switched to a business related major. I still enjoy using what I learned in my two years of college focusing on music.
Check out these resources:
https://www.careersinmusic.com/musicareer-resources/
music-industry music
Seek out a mentor or individual in a career that interests you who may have more insight to share.
Check out these helpful TED Talks on "music." https://www.ted.com/topics/music
Keep asking great questions on CareerVillage and learning all you can from others, to help you make informed future decisions.
You already have some great answers here so I’ll just add some resources you may find helpful in learning more about careers in music.
Similar to what Eliandra shared, music is a hobby for me right now and I did major in music my first couple of years in college, then switched to a business related major. I still enjoy using what I learned in my two years of college focusing on music.
Check out these resources:
https://www.careersinmusic.com/musicareer-resources/
music-industry music
Melisa recommends the following next steps: