Possibly the most misunderstood major on college campuses across the country is music. The major of music has many concentrations: education, performance, business, production, and composition just to name a few. Most music majors have a rigorous application and audition process on top of being accepted into their respective school. The most common misconceptions about music majors are that we take easy courses, and don't have as much to do. I'm here to tell you what our lives are really like, and there is nothing easy about them.
First off, there is no disclaimer for how busy you will be when you decide to major in music. Music majors are thrown in the flames from day one and not everyone survives. A music majors day consists of class (we always have 8 AM's) until the afternoon, practice in between breaks all day, rehearsal all night, and homework and more practice when you get home. Notice I didn't mention lunch because some days lunch just doesn't fit in the schedule. Time is a constant battle in the music world: trying to schedule rehearsal and lesson times, constantly running to the next event, squeezing in free time (haha), and of course, trying to stay in tempo when performing!
The biggest battle we fight is the battle of doubt. We constantly face criticism for majoring in something so subjective and something that "you might not ever make it in." We ask ourselves "am I good enough," and "was this the right choice," almost daily. This major is not for the light of heart because it challenges you mentally, physically, and emotionally every single day. And we can't afford to miss a few points on our quizzes and tests; do you like music with wrong notes? We are forced to compete with our peers and to give and receive criticism daily. Sometimes it feels as if you're drowning in the mess of music to learn, things to audition for, practices to be at, and your health that you have to maintain.
But then we actually make music. There is nothing quite like playing or singing with your instrument. Making beautiful music makes it all worth it; all the stress and all the time leaves your mind and you just relish in that moment of perfection. Music majors don't enter this field to become rich, they enter this field because they have an undying passion for the wonderful creation that is music. Like I said, not everyone survives. But for those who do; they are strong beyond belief and they are sure to change the world somehow. So next time you meet a music major, give them a hug and tell them they're great. We all need it!
