When we delve into the world of music and arts, certain preconceived notions tend to shape our understanding, whether we're avid amateurs, aspiring professionals, or passionate audience members. Often touted as unwavering truths, these ideas might hinder our experience with music and the arts.We started unraveling some of the mystique around the arts with our analysis of what really goes on in some of the bigest non-profits. Now,
let’s peel back the layers of some more common myths like : the misconception that the pinnacle of education lies in prestigious universities, the idea that professional musicians enjoy their craft more than amateurs, and the belief that professional-level arts hold the highest cultural and societal importance.
In my academic journey, I've encountered many college professors. While I've had differences of opinion with some and haven't liked others, I've never met one who was unintelligent. Despite disagreements or personal preferences, all the professors I've met had something noteworthy about them. One must acknowledge the challenging path to becoming a college professor; it demands time, dedication, and often significant financial commitment. Although some people (usually those who've spent less time in academia) may dismiss doctorate credentials as insignificant, they undeniably signify deep expertise in a subject matter.
My late great-aunt Vonda serves as an unusual example. She held a doctorate in music from the University of Acapulco correspondence school, not a traditional academic institution by any means. Yet, she displayed a commendable dedication to her field, studying extensively and penning a well-done dissertation. Her teaching career spanned 30 years, during which she shared her enthusiasm and musical wisdom with thousands of budding musicians on Long Island.
This leads me to my main point: no matter where you choose to study, you will encounter knowledgeable and passionate professors. An excellent education is not solely determined by the institution's prestige but by how well you engage with the resources and mentors. For instance, in the field of musical arts, the talent and resources available at elite conservatories are impressive. Yet, a variety of educational establishments can provide fulfilling opportunities and educational experiences, even if the scope might vary.
A music education degree from any number of institutions can serve you well, contrary to the common belief that elite conservatories offer superior education. Attending an elite school may distort your perception of musical skills, as your peers will likely be exceptionally talented. This experience can bring a surprising realization when you enter the real world and discover that not everyone can effortlessly play or sing anything.
I've spent a considerable part of my life as a professional musician, working predominantly with amateurs. I can assure you this myth doesn't hold up. Often, the singers under my guidance, who participated out of sheer love for music, were having more fun than me. Their joy was not a mere reflection of our distinct roles; they were there by choice, and I was there because it was my profession.
One of my most transformative experiences was as a grade school choir member, collaborating with a local community choir and orchestra for a performance. This powerful memory reminds me that arts at the community level provide invaluable access and opportunity to people of all ages and abilities. Should I have a genie at my disposal, one of my wishes would be to divert resources and enthusiasm from top-tier arts to community-level engagement?
Involvement in the arts is vital for both societal enrichment and individual well-being. As societal divides deepen and isolation grows, communal participation in the arts feels more critical than ever. I often muse about the potential positive change if many of those graduating with degrees in musical theater redirected their talents to local organizations instead of heading for a professional career in New York. The impact could be remarkable, with no potential downsides, only possible improvements.
Until recently, a parent could easily envision the world they would pass on to children and, in many cases, several generations thereafter. The pace of change was slow with life’s broad remaining unchanged across centuries. Each technological disruption, be it in industry, agricultural, or knowledge has accelerated the pace of change, but for most of human history, the acceleration was such that it couldn’t be observed within the span of a person’s life. Futurist Ray Kurzweil coined the term, “The Law of Accelerating Returns,” positing that technological change is exponential with more advanced changes in shorter periods as we move forward. We’ve now reached a point where the pace of change has overwhelmed our capacity to comprehend it.
we’ve become numb to the fact that it’s even happening. Today, change occurs at a stupefyingly fast pace and we are ill-equipped to deal with it.