Additional Information
Starting your musical training at a young age and sticking with it seems
to be your best bet. Employers are looking for people who have a history of
musical education and a wide range of skills and talents.
The great composer George Gershwin quit school early in life and went to
work as a song plugger. Duke Ellington, another outstanding composer, renounced
his fine arts training at 18 and devoted himself to jazz. But both continued
to study music throughout their lives.
Post-secondary education is another way to go. After high school, the musical
student can continue their education in colleges, universities, special music
schools or conservatories that offer bachelor's and postgraduate degrees.
Study will include music history, criticism, theory, harmony, counterpoint,
rhythm, melody and ear training. Voice and the major instruments -- keyboard,
guitar, synthesizer and computer techniques -- are also taught.
"Try to get into a college or conservatory with rigorous, high standards,"
says Lori Dobbins, composer and teacher at Lafayette College. "By attending
a college conservatory with a very good music program, you can find out relatively
soon if composing is the right field for you. And you'll be well prepared
for advanced studies after you graduate."
That said, many post-secondary schools in Canada and the U.S. offer undergraduate
programs in music. There are also a number of three-year certificate programs
available.