| My opinion on the "degree" or "no degree" argument falls on the side of having that degree. Along with everything TrombaPaul said, I want to add that attending conservatory was mostly for ME....MY personal benefit. Firstly, and most importantly, you learn HOW to learn which carries you through life and makes just about anything possible. Remember, you will be teaching yourself and possibly others long after you walk out of the doors with that piece of paper in your hand. In my case, conservatory was where I had to dig very deep within myself at times to survive. That is the other benefit. You can have all of the drive in the world, but a serious teacher and / or conservatory situation will force you to dig deeper than you ever imagined (yes, to the point where it is uncomfortable at times) and that is how some find their true potential. I graduated with a MM with honors nine years ago and 'til this day, lightbulbs still go off all of the time. In otherwords, it is still serving me well and probably will my entire life.
Also related to Trombapaul's post......KEEPING an orchestra job is an entirely different ball of wax than getting one. Why do you think so many orchestras are having a difficult time keeping folks? There are those who can audition perfectly, but without the training, education, etc. cannot maintain a high level of playing for very long. In all honesty, in response to the original question of this thread, I don't think most could "blag" their way into a job. Not in today's climate. |