Exploring the Differences Between Music Education and Performance Majors

Choosing a college major in music can be a challenging decision. Two common pathways are music education and performance. Both offer unique benefits, but which is the right choice? Let's delve into the distinctions and what each pathway offers.

The Music Education Major

A music education major focuses primarily on teaching. They learn how to instruct others, usually school-age students, in various musical disciplines. This includes teaching techniques, instrument and vocal lessons, and performance skills. The goal is to become an educator who can impart musical knowledge to others. While this major may not necessarily lead to fame or fortune, it does offer a stable career path with job security and potential for retirement benefits.

The Music Performance Major

In contrast, a music performance major devotes their energies to one or a few related instruments, aiming to become a professional performer. This major is intensive and typically involves extensive practice sessions. Graduates of this pathway work in a variety of settings, such as orchestras, jazz combos, studios, and pit bands. While this pathway offers more flexibility in work hours, and a chance at fame and fortune, it comes with its own set of challenges.

Which is Better?

Neither pathway is inherently superior. The better choice depends on personal goals and priorities. Both paths require significant time and dedication, but they serve different professional aspirations. Some professionals opt for both, combining the benefits of each. For instance, many music education majors also perform in churches, community choirs, or theater productions.

A Practical Example

Our son's experience illustrates how a dual major approach can be beneficial. He pursued both a music performance degree and a music education major simultaneously. It took him an extra semester to complete, but he found it to be a wise decision. He now uses his teaching skills to earn money, allowing him to focus on his performance and composition opportunities. He writes music for television and film and works part-time as a studio guitarist and a college-level music teacher.

My Perspective

In my opinion, a music education major is like a double major in music and education. Performance majors, on the other hand, are more specialized, with fewer diversions outside their musical training. Music education offers the added component of teaching, which can be crucial for financial stability. Even if there's no immediate prospect of stardom, the skills learned through teaching can be invaluable.

The Daily Grind: Practice

Music performance majors typically practice for about five hours a day, compared to two hours a day for music education majors. However, the two paths each offer important skills: music ed majors learn pedagogy, student teaching, and broader liberal arts education, while performance majors can focus more intently on their instrument or instruments.

Conclusion

The choice between music education and performance should ultimately reflect your career aspirations and personal passions. Pursuing both can offer the best of both worlds. Whether you focus on teaching, performing, or a combination of both, the skills and knowledge you gain will be highly valuable in the professional music world.