Pursuing graduate studies in music can be a transformative decision for aspiring musicians, composers, educators, and scholars.
As the music industry becomes increasingly competitive, a graduate degree can offer significant advantages in terms of skill development, career opportunities, and professional networking.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of attending graduate school for music, from enhancing your job prospects to building a robust professional network.
We’ll also discuss the financial aspects, including fully funded programs that can make advanced education more accessible.
Whether you’re considering a Master’s in performance, composition, musicology, or music education, this guide will help you understand the potential impact of graduate studies on your musical career.
Let’s delve into why many musicians choose to further their education and how it can shape their future in the world of music.
Several Graduate Schools Are Free & Offer Salary-Like Stipends
Some graduate music programs offer exceptional financial support, covering not just tuition but also providing living stipends. This level of funding can be a game-changer for aspiring musicians and scholars.
Prestigious institutions like Harvard, Duke, Stanford, and Cornell offer fully funded programs, typically focusing on music composition or musicology. These opportunities allow students to immerse themselves in their studies without the burden of financial stress.
Other renowned schools, such as the Yale School of Music, Curtis Institute of Music, and the Colburn School, provide tuition-free education for music students. This can significantly reduce the financial barriers to pursuing advanced musical training.
I’ve seen how programs with stipends, such as those at Princeton and Cornell, offer an unparalleled opportunity for artistic and professional growth. Students can focus entirely on their craft, research, and networking without the distraction of financial worries.
This financial freedom during graduate studies can be transformative. It allows musicians to take risks, explore their art deeply, and emerge as more well-rounded artists, teachers, and professionals. The ability to study without accumulating debt can also provide greater career flexibility upon graduation.
Remember, while these fully funded opportunities are highly competitive, they’re worth pursuing for the financial security and prestige they offer.
Getting More Prepared for a Competitive Job
Graduate school for music offers significant advantages in preparing for a competitive job market.
Many orchestras prioritize hiring musicians with Master’s degrees. While it’s possible to secure an orchestral position with just a Bachelor’s, the vast majority of successful candidates hold at least a Master’s, if not a doctorate.
In the field of music education, a Master’s degree is often essential. Even though you can obtain licensure during your undergraduate studies, many states and institutions require or strongly prefer educators with advanced degrees.
For aspiring composers, particularly in film scoring, a graduate degree isn’t strictly necessary.
However, the experience and connections gained through advanced study can be invaluable. The skills honed in a composition program often translate directly to professional work, giving graduates a significant edge.
I’ve observed that regardless of the specific musical field, employers tend to view graduate degrees favorably.
They signal a higher level of expertise, dedication, and professional development. In a competitive industry like music, this additional qualification can make a crucial difference in landing desirable positions.
Moreover, graduate programs often provide opportunities for networking, internships, and real-world project experience that can directly lead to job opportunities. These experiences are sometimes more valuable than the degree itself in launching a successful career.
Network and Gather More Connections
Building a robust network is perhaps the most significant advantage of attending graduate school for music. The connections you forge during this time can be instrumental in shaping your career.
Faculty members at the graduate level are often active professionals with deep industry ties.
Their critiques of your musicianship are invaluable, preparing you for the demands of the professional world. I’ve seen countless instances where faculty introductions have led to career-changing opportunities for students.
Your fellow students are future colleagues and collaborators. The friendships you form in graduate school often evolve into professional relationships that last throughout your career. These peers may become your future bandmates, collaborators, or even employers.
Choosing a graduate program in a major city can significantly expand your professional network.
You’re not just studying; you’re establishing yourself in a thriving music scene.
Remember, in the music world, who you know can be just as important as what you know.
Should You Attend Graduate School for Music?
Deciding whether to attend graduate school for music is a personal choice that depends on your career goals and circumstances.
The primary drawback for some is often the expense; while some programs offer full funding, many still come with a hefty price tag.
Some musicians worry that graduate school delays their entry into the professional world. However, I’ve observed that many successfully balance their studies with professional opportunities, gaining valuable experience in both realms.
On the flip side, the benefits are substantial. Graduate school can sharpen your skills, making you more competitive in the job market.
It provides unparalleled networking opportunities with faculty and peers who may become lifelong collaborators or industry contacts. For many roles, especially in education and certain orchestras, an advanced degree is increasingly expected.
Moreover, the immersive environment of graduate school allows for focused artistic growth and exploration that can be challenging to achieve while juggling a full-time career.
Ultimately, it’s your decision, and it should align with your long-term musical and professional aspirations.
