As a music education major should I go straight to masters or wait and work with a school?
I am a music education freshman and am considering getting my masters in conducting. I'm wondering if it is worth it to wait before I continue schooling?
#music #music-education #graduate-school- #conducting
3 answers
Maria Mercedes’s Answer
Hello Caleb, I do not think there is only one right answer to this. I would consider what your interests are. Do you want to teach at a elementary, middle , high school level, university? What do you think conducting would add to your credentials? Spending some time teaching before going back to school has the advantage that you gain professional experience that might give you a better perspective of what your options are so you would go back to school knowing what you want to get from school. On the other hand, if you decide to continue and do a masters degree, that could potentially open other professional jobs that require a higher degree. It seems you have time to decide, since you are a freshman. Continue with the good work and use these years to broaden your options taking classes in conducting and other subjects and you will find your answer when the time comes and always use the resources available to you at school, ask your advisers and mentors. Good luck!
Leslie’s Answer
Renee’s Answer
Speaking from experience: I got my degree in art education and tried to gain the experience I mentioned. However, attempting to get my own classroom proved to be much more challenging than I expected. For example, the arts usually are temporary or part-time appointments, unless you manage to build up a good network or are able to wow a school board.
An advanced degree usually means that the pay scale is different from entry level. Many schools will be shy at doing advanced pay for someone who hasn't a matching experience---but that circles back into why you'd volunteer and get that in tandem.
Ultimately, if you decide that Music Education is your passion, you will find a way to make it. It may not be in Pennsylvania. It may not be full-time at first. It may seem a bit of a hassle---but if your goal is to be a music teacher, perseverance and adaptability is key.