How to Survive Music School
Five Things Every Student Should Know
by Mahaliah Edwards
As a second year undergraduate, I’m half-way through my BMus course – the English equivalent to a Bachelor of Music. I like to think I’ve learned a few things about surviving as a music student. Without further ado:
Make the most of every opportunity
Take advantage of your student status! Many stores, online retailers and concert venues offer some sort of student discount or concession - find out what is available to you. My local concert venues offer tickets for students at a very low price for any seat in the hall, so there is no excuse for me to turn down the chance to see exciting concerts. Last semester, I saw the world-renowned violinist James Ehnes for £5 ($6)! Any student will be aware that studying is expensive and any way of saving can only be a good thing.
(Even when that opportunity is free time.)
Additionally, after speaking to my various tutors, coaches and mentors, it has become clear that life as a student accommodates the most time for practice. and When you launch into the profession, time for practicing is drastically reduced. This little word of advice has really made me appreciate the fact that as a violin student at conservatoire, I have excellent facilities to enhance my practice. I urge any music student to treasure the practice rooms and other facilities at your institution, and to make as much use of them as you can.
Organization!
Diaries, journals, and calendar are your best friends. Without these things your life will surely be very difficult, unless you possess a really gifted memory. Life at any college or university is very busy and even more so for musicians. I know from personal experience that along with my weekly timetable, numerous projects, and rehearsals with different ensembles, I would not be able to function without my planner. I like the fact that I can clearly see every class or event for the coming week. Whether your preference is the calendar on a portable device or a tangible diary or calendar, it is an essential for every student musician.
Find an equilibrium in life & Know your limits!
It is important to have a balanced life. Studying and practice can often take up most of our time, leaving little time to do other things we enjoy. I’ve learnt that as much as I want to work hard and see the results of my hard work, it is impossible and impractical to constantly be in work mode. Having down time, enjoying life is a good antidote. For me, doing things that are completely unrelated to music help refresh myself. On the other hand, the highlight of some students’ lives might be going out. Indulging in too much partying is impractical and doesn’t reap great results. Although it’s not always easy, finding a healthy balance is a sure-fire way to be on top op everything and makes life a little less stressful.
Establish yourself
During your time at a music college or conservatory, you should have an idea about your career goals. It’s never too early to envision yourself as an artist in the industry. Try to figure out your place in the music world. For me having career aspirations is my main driving force through music college. The fact that I have an idea of where I want to be in the future makes the everyday struggles of studying and practicing easier. Don’t let your status as a student deter you from going for what you want. If you want to be an orchestral musician, go on orchestral courses. Many institutions have partnerships with local orchestras where they have side-by-side schemes and students can rehearse alongside the professionals. If you want to be a music journalist or critic, why not start a blog now and publish your own writing? Whether you want to be a soloist or session musician you should definitely launch your website, Youtube Channel, SoundCloud account in addition to other social media. Start putting yourself out there whilst you’re a student and you’ll have good prospects for when you graduate.
Mahaliah Edwards is a student at the Birmingham Conservatoire and a blogger for Behind the Bridge.
