Choosing a post-secondary music school can be a daunting process. Exploratory homework is essential.

CONSIDERATIONS:

• There isn't a single perfect school. In exploring options, students need to consider their own goals, personality, learning style, stage of development, prior experience, and financial circumstances.
• Performance Teacher. For most performance majors, the teacher is a primary factor in choosing a school. Artist teachers can often facilitate preparation for the profession. The student must be prepared for periods of absence when the artist is on tour, perhaps having lessons with an assistant. The student must also be prepared for technical "overhauls" to match the "school of playing" of the artist. One wants to also be aware of politics, personalities, and psychological approaches. It is also useful to find out successful graduates.
• School size. Size can influence the experience. Some students are overwhelmed in a large school while others are energized. From a skill development perspective, it should be noted that pianists need good string players for sonatas and chamber music. Violinists need violists, cellists and bassists for chamber music and orchestral experience AND winds, brass and percussion for full symphonic orchestral experience. A large comprehensive music school can usually provide this kind of experience. On the other hand, some students have found their most appropriate teacher in a smaller school and have been able to achieve the above experiences within the community. Again, there is no single answer for all.
• Types of schools / programs. Some schools are primarily performance institutions with academic courses provided by a partnering university. Others are full university schools. There can be differences in academic load and in recognition of credentials. In the USA, most university music schools meet standards set by NASM. Some schools have special programs in addition to performance.
• Attitudes / Atmosphere. It is very helpful to visit the campus to get a feel for the "environment". Some schools are highly competitive and "cut-throat," while others are more collegial and supportive.
• Skills. There are skills which have become important in the profession today such as technology, communication and promotion. Some schools address career development and others don't.
• Location. What opportunity will there be in the community to hear international touring artists in live concert? Symphony, Opera, Ballet, Chamber Music? What opportunity will there be to make "contacts"?
• Financial. Scholarship availability and other financial assistance. There is a very wide variance in tuition fees and in cost of living depending on the school and the community. Also remember to factor in travel costs if the school is not in your home community. Some schools are richly endowed to offer generous scholarhsip assistance.
• Preparations - tips.
• Applications and auditions. Most schools will accept audition recordings if you are applying from another country. Some schools hold auditions in several locations. A live audition is ideal to get a feel for the school and to meet the teachers. Most schools begin accepting applications in December. Earlier is always better.
• Degrees, Diplomas. Some schools offer diplomas which have very few academics. Degrees are an important credential when being considered for a university position.
• Other programs in addition to performance:
  • Musicology, Ethnomusicology, Music Theory, Composition
  • Music Therapy
  • Music Merchandizing
  • Music Education
  • Pedagogy
  • Music in Media / Broadcasting, Film, Video
  • Other speciality programs - - Opera School, Jazz, Arts Administration

• By Location
  • Canada
  • United States of America
  • Great Britain
  • Europe
• By Type
  • University Schools of Music, Departments of Music
  • Colleges
  • Conservatory, Conservatorium, Conservatoire
• By Teacher
  • Keyboard
  • Strings
  • Woodwinds
  • Brass
  • Percussion
  • Voice

Maclean's Guide to Canadian Universities
Peterson's Guide. http://www.petersons.com/
Internet (web site for each school)

Further Information and Assistance

• Discussions, interviews, articles

Updated November 22, 2000
© 2000 Norman Burgess