How to choose the best music course for a music career

The importance of choosing the right music course cannot be overestimated. It is an obvious point that would scarecely need stating if it wasn't for the number of students I've met who have told me they regretted what they studied because either it did not lead to the career opportunities they hoped it would or they did not enjoy the course as much as they thought they would. The end result is regret, unfulfilled hopes and an expensive debt to pay over time.

Selection of the correct course is therefore crucial. For some, the aim is to get into the music industry as a recording artist or other connected role, others to play in a band or orchestra or become music teachers. The choices are wide and it can be daunting, knowing you will invest a good chunk of your life and money in something where you're not certain of the outcome. It can feel like a gamble.

Apart from talent (this is a must) getting a job in the music industry requires skill and experience (if you are lucky enough to get a work placement or internship) in addition to a qualification. Budget is also an important factor while choosing a music course. If you play an instrument, some (like brass and wind) can be very expensive. There may well be continuous investment in your instrument as well as the private lessons while studying. If you intent to apply to a top institution which has links to the industry, be aware of the high fees charged.

Generally, most institutions look for a certain standard of performance of vocal and instrumental skills and sometimes composition ability.

Below are some ideas for how to proceed with choosing the best music course:

Is it teaching/education, performance, production / technology or business related? Look at educational and industry directories that provide an overview of different sectors, job specifications etc. Also, view at any advice and guidance pages. If you plan to do a degree, the 2 main ones are a Music BA and BMus. You might find that some universities offer both a BA and a BMus course. While both of them are general music courses, the BA course normally follows a broader range of subjects, including more academic subjects like music history or analysis.

BMus courses, on the other hand,are more practical-orented. They usually contain more performance and composition elements. You should compare the course details at individual universities for an exact comparison.

- if you want to stay near your family or move as far away as possible

- big city or small town?  What's the social life like?

- what are the entry requirement needed to be accepted?

 - are the current students happy with their courses there?  

- what was the feedback from previous graduates to the course? How many of them got good jobs when they left?

Be aware that competition for places means many music courses are over-subscribed. Also, there a large number of different music courses available at universities. If you've already decided your career path, it is worth considering a specialised music course. If you want to keep your options open, choose a general music course.

Understand the nature of the courses you are considering by asking questions, particularly when applying for a specific course. Make sure you ask the following questions :-

- How connected to the music industry is the course (e.g. industry guest lectures, work placement opportunities, etc)?

- Do lecturers and staff have industry backgrounds?

- What are the course facilities like (e.g studios, rehearsal rooms, concert hall, teaching areas, libraries, research and development centre)?

- Are there performing opportunities e.g. bands, chamber and full orchestras at special events etc

- What are the opportunities for progression to higher level courses on completion of the qualification/training?

- Do students have freedom to specialise in within the course, e.g. take performance/composition/business as major parts of it? Can students work on their own extended projects under staff direction?

- Does the course teach business skills? anyone entering the music industry must understand the business side. Sales, marketing, people and project management, finance and promotional skills are particularly valuable.

- What is the teaching like? Are the classes small and intimate where everybody has a personal tutor in case something goes wrong?

- What careers have past students gone on to have after completing the course? Is the qualification held in high regard when seen by prospective employers in the music industry?

If possible, it is also worth speaking with a professional musician or music teacher you know because they will be able to identify the possibilities available. Not only this, they will also be able to give you some insight into what to expect when you complete your course and start job hunting.