Not sure where to even ask this one, but S20 just decided that he wants to pursue what he listed as his second-choice major (Math). IMHO, he has much more of a comparative advantage in math and applied math (e.g., Physics) than he does for music, so huge relief. He already contacted our large state university, to which he was admitted for Exploratory (and Honors), but hadn’t yet heard audition results. He will contact the schools to which he applied RD, which are highly selective. The other schools, he applied to only b/c of music.
Still in shock, so any words of wisdom? Anything we should be doing?
I think you’re doing everything right! Have you spoken to your kid’s high school guidance counselor? He/she may have some helpful information on schools that have good math departments and later application deadlines.
Many, many kids change majors the first year. He just did it earlier. It’s hard on parents however…particularly if they’ve been somewhat quiet about it. You have to say goodbye to your thoughts about his future and readjust. BUT it’s his life…and it’s best to let him decide as you have done. Still…it’s normal for it to be a bit hard on you. In time you’ll embrace his new major…and you’ll get excited about that too as you learn more. College decisions aren’t for wimps!!
I know two math majors who went to grad school for music. You never know. He can continue with music via lessons and extracurricular performance, as well as electives - if he wants. Summer programs might still be possible too. Some schools will give credit for lessons and extracurricular performance as well.
Or maybe he will play as an amateur and have music in his life for a long time
I’m actually relieved about his decision. I feel that our entire household did a big exhale, as long as he isn’t giving up on a dream or thinks he’s not capable of pursuing Music. I’ll be surprised if he doesn’t participate in at least Marching Band, if not other ensembles, because that’s what he really enjoys. I find it a cruel irony that if your kid plays a variety of instruments (all woodwinds, keys, mallets, drums), in a variety of ensembles (marching band, jazz band, winter percussion, pit orchestra), it almost hurts them, because it’s difficult to find time and energy to practice that one instrument for auditions. And, with Music Ed, it has to be a classical audition, not jazz. Interestingly, we still had one audition trip left, that he was actually dreading, and he doesn’t yet want me to cancel.
@compmom, a science teacher whom my son had in middle school has a Master’s in Jazz Piano. That teacher helps with the middle-school jazz band and plays out. I could see my son following that type of path.
I know a software engineer with a master’s in music as well. I would add that I know young people who went to conservatory and are now in another field, as well as those who got a BA in something else and went on to music as a grad or in their career.
Granted, the preparation offered in a BM program can make the latter path easier, and both talent and hard work are required. One of the science majors I know now has a jazz career, but he gigged throughout undergrad and is extraordinarlily talented.
I think it is important to realize music can continue as part of a person’s life no matter what path they take.
Many parents or students come on here with mult-faceted musical interests and talents and it does seem harder during the application/audition process when the focus isn’t narrower and intensely one one instrument or interest.
Our schools’ music department chair did a BA at an LAC and majored in music. He plays in the regional orchestra as an amateur, plays in a very successful indie cabaret band, teaches violin privately, and works in the schools. Very multi-faceted. He got a master’s in music education after several years already teaching.
