| Re: The performance degree...myth or reality?
Wow... great stuff in this post. I'm excited for the recent threads that have been popping up here on TM.
I face this topic OFTEN with my students here in Boston and at my college studio.
To be honest, no one has EVER asked me if I received a performance degree on stage. Some have asked where I went to school (UNH)... and then look at me quizically and ask if they have music in New Hampshire ;)
I'm a firm believer in the double major now. Music and business, music and history, etc. I truly believe that today's modern musician has to be as deeply in touch with every facet of this "business" (or lack thereof). I know I learned more about business at Disney in the college "slave" band than anyone ever taught me. I learned more about creativity and artistry at Lake Placid in those two weeks than I did in any one of my college ensembles. I know I'll learn a lot about myself, my role as a creative musician, and my career this year at Chosen Vale (once I get the wife's seal of approval... ha!).
I have never once told one of my students that "they aren't good enough". I had teachers tell me that before and it really ticked me off. Some of my college instructors told me I'd never become a competent jazz musician! Can you believe that? Is that where we've gone in the "music education circles"? I am, however, extremely honest about the current state of music and performing. If they put the time in, listening in, research, "Hustling" for jobs, etc, they can do it.
Clark Terry told me "there's an ass for every seat". I love that thinking!
I know truly believe I have more to offer as an instructor/guide than as a player even though I'm honing my skills as a player constantly (thanks to my recent visit to see Hakan my life has turned upside down... more later on that).
-T |