If you've got musical talent, then consider attending grad school—you can put your skills to use and finish with a degree that will not only be rewarding academically, but will help you perfect your gift even more.
Read about percussion performance and literature grad student Maria Finkelmeier to see if this career path is for you. Finkelmeier will receive her Master of Music degree at the University of Rochester's Eastman School of Music.
Hobsons: Why did you choose your major and why did you choose to attend grad school?
Finkelmeier: I chose this major because I hope to become a professional musician and hopefully a professor at a university. Most universities require a DMA (Doctorate of Musical Arts) to apply. If I decide not to attain a DMA, this master's program has opened many doors and provided a lot of networking and great experience.
Eastman has an amazing reputation and is one of the top music conservatories in the world. After learning of my acceptance, it was an easy decision to attend. Many great performers, composers, conductors, theorists, etc. have walked the halls that I do ever day, and it will be an honor to receive a degree from this establishment.
Hobsons: What were the requirements for getting into your grad program? Did you have to play or write a piece?
Finkelmeier: I had to fill out an application that required a repertoire list, résumé, and statement of intent. I then had to travel to each school I applied to and perform a live audition, and at some, an interview.
Hobsons: How is grad school different than undergrad for a music major?
Finkelmeier: In my program, I do a lot of teaching. I teach two sections of a percussion methods class (for music education majors) and I have approximately ten students I teach private lessons weekly. As for the amount of classes, I am taking fewer than in my undergraduate career. However, more independent work is required in each class.
I have to manage my time much more diligently, and no one is ever "holding my hand" and telling me what to do next.
Hobsons: What is coursework like? Is there more opportunity for hands-on?
Finkelmeier: Each day consists of rehearsals, classes, lessons (teaching and taking), and practicing. Right now I perform with the Eastman Wind Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble for course credit. I play in many other recitals and projects as well.
My academic work includes theory and history courses, as well as elective classes, such as conducting or composition. I'm also a part of the Arts Leadership Program and take classes that discuss the business side of being a professional musician.
Hobsons: What are some challenges you've had to overcome as a grad student? Do you think grad school is more difficult for a music major versus any other major?
Finkelmeier: I think school as a music major is very unique in general. It is very time consuming, yet rewarding. One must be very dedicated to their craft in order to be successful, and willing and able to take criticism and judgment in a healthy manner.
Hobsons: Do you have any advice for a student considering your major and/or grad school?
Finkelmeier: A student who would like to pursue music has to have a true passion for what they do. It's the only way to make it. Also, a student must understand that the job market for musicians is very different than other majors. No one is guaranteed a spot in the New York Philharmonic; you must be creative with your ambitions.
Hobsons: Have you completed any internships, co-ops, big projects, etc. for your degree? If so, what kind and what did it entail?
Finkelmeier: I will be doing an internship with the Eastman Summer Sessions over this summer, which is an extra endeavor. For the Arts Leadership Program I am in (and will receive a certificate for when attaining my degree), I will have to complete an internship with a local music organization (probably the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra).
Hobsons: What do you plan to do with your degree after graduation?
Finkelmeier: I would love to form a professional percussion ensemble and tour internationally. Then, apply for DMA programs and collegiate teaching positions.
by Natalie Pezzenti, staff writer
