Minoring in Piano Performance?

[kelly_kelly]

I was just wondering if any of you had minored in piano performance in college. I'm currently a junior in high school, and lately I've been thinking that I would like to continue studying music in college. I'm afraid that if I don't, I may eventually lose music (as I did for a full year after I stopped with my previous teacher). It's so easy to become caught up in other things, especially if you're busy (as a college student would undoubtedly be). But I know I would never forgive myself if I stopped playing classical music, and I know I would be a much sadder person (as I was for a full year after I stopped with my previous teacher and wasn't taking lessons). So my questions are: At what level should I be if I want to minor in music? (I'm prepared to work hard to get to that level, even though I'm probably very far from it now.) What is the experience like? I plan to major in physics, so do you know of any universities with good science and music programs?

Thanks,
Kelly

[Bob]

It depends on the place.  Just ask.  Probably lessons, theory, and ear training. 

Some places have a music arts degree.  It doesn't really do anything, but you can get into music classes that way.

For preparation, it's probably as much as you can do. 

Most people do stop at college or when they have a family.  So many things take up time.

[faulty_damper]

There is no minor degree program in piano performance at any school.

[Bob]

I heard of one, but that was stopped in the 90s I think. 

It's not a degree, but you could do the plain music or bachelor of arts thing.  Get into classes that way.  Then quit if you wanted to.  That's not capping it off with a nice degree title, but it might get you into the classes that way.

[thalberg]

Hi Kelly,

Colleges and universities typically have piano teachers who teach non-majors. 

I suggest just taking plain piano lessons in college and practicing.  The theory and history that go along with a minor might be burdensome for you.  If you want to take those classes, go ahead, but it's best not to be tied down by a program that would make them mandatory.

I do think you should keep up piano, I just think you should do it in a pressure-free way if possible.  You can enjoy piano all through college  without having a music minor on your degree.