College Degree

[caioramos]

Hey guys

I was just wondering, If one wants to be a performer pianist, get into competitions and be a concert player... is it really necessary a college attendance? If you have good teachers, study at a really good school/conservatory of music, and have talent, you can get to the point you want without going to college, or am I wrong?

What do you guys think? =)

Thanks

[quantum]

A degree isn't required for you to be a good pianist.  Where it helps however is in getting a job.  It provides a level of accomplishment that employers can relate to. 

[pianisten1989]

But somehow you should be able to read most of it as separate courses, right? So you could get a job anyway...?

[quantum]

Employers tend to gravitate towards degrees.  Even if a person posses a similar amount of knowledge as a degree holder, the person with the degree may win out if there is competition for a position.  High school diplomas do not stand out as much as in the past, with a good amount of people seeking an undergraduate degree.  Many people seeking jobs which generally only require a Bachelors, are now looking towards Masters and Doctorate degrees for edge in job selection and furthering their education. 

[caioramos]

I think it is very reasonable to admit that for job application a degree has its importance. However if you could get to a point of recognition like been a concert player, and make a name for yourself, even if one day you want a job at school or whatever, they may hire you for what you proved of yourself out there, isn't?  

When I was in the conservatory, they were very strict about Diplomas, every single teacher had a superior formation, except one famous dude that, due to all his history in music, got hired and worked there for years.

[omar_roy]

No you don't need a degree to be a concert pianist.  I'm quite sure that none of the big names held any formal degrees.

These days though, if you want a job on the faculty of a university's music program, then you'll need at least an MM, and usually a DMA, with very few exceptions. 

[tayamedico]

In today's time degree play an important role. They are lucky who get good opportunities but not everybody gets the chance.