Why do people major in music performance?

-I want to understand the reason why people would pursue this career or major even when there's little guarantee of success. Do people major in this field because it's the only subject they are good at? Most people's answer is that they are passionate about music and enjoy it a lot. They would rather "follow their heart" and enrich their life as a starving artist rather than money. Money doesn't necessarily fulfill one's meaning to life. As a prospective student looking into colleges, I'm overwhelmed as to what to choose. My parents would not support me if I chose a music major, but everyone else does including my brother, teachers, classmates, friends...etc. I have participated in many state honor bands and orchestras (I play flute by the way) and I've never been below assistant principal my whole life. Yet I am still doubtful. I am definitely willing to work hard and i'm extremely stubborn once I've set my mind to something. I just know that there will always be someone ever better and outstanding, but I haven't reached there. The first thing colleges will ask is why you want to be a music major. "For pure entertainment and enjoyment" is an answer that won't suffice to this question for colleges at least I don't think it will. Because it's such a difficult career, the only way to get a job is to apply to the top music schools. My private teacher believes I can get into any school I want to but the idea just seems to preposterous my mental wall turns it down immediately. I also enjoy learning about biology and applying to the college of arts and sciences isn't such a bad idea either. Can you give me some advice and list a few schools I can consider?Everyone will have their own reasons for wanting to pursue music. Many of my friends earned performance degrees because they wanted to spend 4 years immersed in music to nurture their talent. Others pursue it because they can't imagine pursuing anything else since music is their only interest. It's also the best place to network with other talented musicians who are like-minded.



Also, some universities offer concurrent degree programs where you can earn a Bachelor of Music, whilst at the same time earn a BS (or a BA) in a different field, like biology or english. It often takes 5 years, not easy, but I know people who have done this too, and they're all very studious. You could also major in something else you like, take music courses as your electives, and practice in your spare time.



Keep in mind that music performance is not a stable career (i.e. nursing), and many of my friends who went the music performance route have resorted to teaching private lessons AND working a day job like waitressing, that's not to say they aren't happy, but it's not an easy life. You have to decide for yourself what kind of lifestyle you want.To make a career out of playing the flute is very difficult. The Music Performance Degree is one of the best opportunities for achieving Professional status.

Most who go fo the Performance degree also take Music Education classes, with the idea of teaching..

Every state has Universities with great Fine Arts Departments.

Here in the Midwest you will find excellent programs at

Wichita State University

Kansas State

University of Kansas

University of Missouri at Kansas City

Missouri University

University of Missouri at St Louis.



Check with every school that you would consider. They all have contact information on their web sites.

Ask for entrance requirements.

Ask about classes and degrees offered.

Ask if auditions are required.

Ask about scholarships and their requirements.
People that are hopeful that they can make a career out of music will try to further their education in music. Where you are educated, and who you are taught by, will give you an edge on the other musicians pursuing a career in music. Some people will double major in music performance and something else because they want to pursue music, but are doubtful they will be able to support themselves with their music salary alone. Great flautists come a dime a dozen, so your education will be especially important. So many great flautist are rejected for jobs, when they could easily compete with the flautist that got the job. Education is key.