<p>I was a music performance major for three years, but I ended up graduating with only a degree in psychology. Right now I am in AmeriCorps and have seriously been looking at Social Work for grad school.</p>
<p>Here is the problem: I grew up with music, and I have found that I cannot live without it. Something I stuggled with was deciding if music did anything to help other people who are actually in need of help. I have come across some half-baked reasons. 1) Music inspires people, 2) music brings hope and makes the world a more beautiful place, 3) music is therapeutic, etc. I consider these half-baked because none of them represent true need, and many of them are most likely by-products of a performer's own gratification. Furthermore, classical performances are many times geared towards the rich, but I think this is slowly changing.</p>
<p>Teaching is the closest thing I have found within music that deals with truly helping people. The question, though, is if these people are in real need. Children of rich suburban parents aren't truly in need... what about children at inner-city schools? Then again, if basic needs can't be accounted for, what makes me think anyone will take my job at an inner-city school seriously?</p>
<p>Basically, I am confused. I am confused about how I will balance my personal wants with my desire to make a difference in people's lives who really need it. I am also concerned about where I will make the most impact--although people may be in greater need, it doesn't mean music lessons will do more for them.</p>
<p>As of now, I have three basic options--apply to MSW programs, apply as a transfer yet again to another music school for music performance, apply as a transfer to another music school but for music education.</p>
<p>I was also wondering--is there a way to get teaching certification without actually going to school and getting a BM in education?</p>
<p>Many school systems have alternative certification programs. I am a professional musician and have been certified in special education. I think most of the programs work the same way--you have a B.A. in another field (psychology is perfect) and apply for one of the programs. After an interview process you take part in an intensive training (a few weeks that include a little student teaching) and begin teaching full time right away. At the same time you take the classes you need at the college connected with your program, and take Praxis tests you need. That's it. You usually can get a Master's if you want (areas of need are often paid for, such as special ed). Just look up the school system in the cities in which you are interested in teaching. Check out their alternative certification routes. I think most large cities have them, and many counties as well. The good news is that I think many school systems are recognizing the importance of the arts--you just have to do the research to find the right place. I think any caring teacher can change a child's life. Research has shown that music is great for brain development, and can be the only way for some kids to express themselves. Good luck!
ps pm me if you have questions.</p>
<p>I was going to suggest an alternate certification approach as well, but operahorn beat me to it. Many districts will assist in allowing you to gain certification in an "on the job" approach. Details are most easily found on yourstate's teacher association website.</p>
<p>I can't help with the "which way do I go question". It's far too personal to be able to assess what drives you, and what your motivation is. rudy'smom provided some excellent links on music therapy. It does combine the power of music and various aspects of the healing arts, and is a career choice for a growing number with interest in both fields. rudy'smom is probably the most versed in music therapy general info among the frequent posters to this board. With three years of a performance program behind you, and your BA in psychology you could easily find a grad level program in either music therapy, sociology or even general or music education.</p>
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1) Music inspires people, 2) music brings hope and makes the world a more beautiful place, 3) music is therapeutic, etc. I consider these half-baked because none of them represent true need, and many of them are most likely by-products of a performer's own gratification.
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<p>helloangel, in reading the above it seems you are trying to justify a decision. If you are one of the rare souls that put the needs of all others above your own, I salute you. </p>
<p>If on the other hand, you have an altruistic, sensitive, sharing personality that cares about your "neighbors" you are like most of humanity and reside in the fat body of the bell curve.</p>
<p>Make yourself happy as well as impacting others. In the long run, you need to satisfy yourself, and be at peace at what drives you.</p>
<p>A bit unrelated, but do a bit of reading on therapy dogs. You may find it enlightening, and realize that there are a number of ways of involving your passions and still impacting humanity. Sometimes all it takes is a smile to realize the impact you've made.</p>
<p>Check the state in which you'd like to teach. In California, you need to pass the National subject test in the subject area, so if you pass the Music test, the Praxis, I believe, then, you can enroll in a credential program in which you'd do your student teaching and get your certification. Also, private schools will hire you based upon your qualifications, not necessarily needing a credential. With experience, then often states have a shorter process available to get state certification. And yes, there are private schools in inner cities, especially Catholic schools, and you don't have to be Catholic to teach there. Having taught the arts in the inner city, I can assure you that music has inspired and saved many inner city kids. Your talents are desperately needed and will be valued. Our experience has been that music jobs are going wanting. Also, you might eventually look into graduate programs that offer teaching certification with a masters in music--not all of them will require a bachelors in music, particularly since you may have many undergraduate music credits. Good luck! We need more inspiring music teachers!</p>
<p>We have a music therapist at our hospital who has created a wonderful niche for herself.
I believe she will work with any patient but is especially involved with the oncology patients. It is certainly a helping profession!</p>
<p>Thank you all again for your advice and suggestions! I just found out that I could actually get an MM in Music Education regardless of what type of bachelors degree I have, as long as my audition is up to par. This is perfect, as the MM has a performance emphasis as well. Music therapy would be something I could add via a certificate or diploma program, and I am also considering that.</p>