<p>Some advice on if it is better to major in theatre with a minor in voice or major in voice. Is the voice the most important factor. It seems like everyone goes about this in different ways. Any input on this is appreciated.</p>
<p>Here's my take on it. If the ultimate goal is to maximize employment opportunities, then choosing an MT program with a very strong acting component is important. If you can act, then there are work opportunities in many different areas, not just those that are "Musical Theatre". I think majoring in voice, for most students, would be too narrow unless all they are interested in is vocal performance and have no interest in working in other genres. Then again, there're always the Kristen Chenowith's and Rebecca Luker's of the world who blow that theory out of the box.</p>
<p>rglick, this is such a complicated issue and obviously everyone's decision has to be a personal one, taking into account so many things. There really is no right or wrong answer here, and as always there are no guarantees. One thing I will say, though, after decades of having family and friends involved in professional theatre in just about every conceivable capacity, and having seen hundreds of professional productions, it comes down to a pretty simple reality in the business: there are more actors who are good singers, than the reverse. It's a rarity to see an actor in a musical who cannot sing, it's less of a rarity to see one who cannot act. The majority of kids we know who are in straight theatre programs are also talented singers. The acting is what is going to win out, in the long run.</p>
<p>I think you need to closely examine the required curricula at the schools you would be considering, and see how your time would be spent. Many places, music majors (if it's a Bachelor of Music) don't have enough time to complete a minor. If it is a place that offers a BA in music, it is more likely to have time for another BA minor, but may not have as many performance courses involved.</p>
<p>Conversely, if it's a BFA theatre program, a minor may not be feasible.</p>
<p>That said, I think it would be easier to get the musical skills you need (voice, piano, and at least a touch of theory/aural skills) in individual lessons, than it would be to get the acting component individually.</p>
<p>My S started out in MT and has transfered to VP (opera) he may major in both (will find this out soon). If he only majors in VP he is taking acting and will fit in enough dance as possible. The idea is you can major in opera and do both ( ala Chenowith, and O'Hara, both graduated from his school) but with MT only you cant do opera. I think it probably depends on personal interest and what your school's program alows for. He though this might give him more careeer options. He also plans on taking some pedegogy (sp?).</p>
<p>This forum is unbelievable! I have learned so much and thank you all! My D is first an actor then a singer and wants to get training that will make her the most versatile. She loves acting as well as MT and would like (Hope?)to always do both. She has to decide between the schools who have offered her and it is a tough decision. I am not the most knowledgeable in this field and could use some help. Some of the other posters have been wonderful in giving me info. Can you help? She has been accepted to Baldwin wallace MT, Elon MT , UNC chapel Hill BA theatre, Indiana MT, Evansville bfa, CCM BFA drama . She is still waiting to hear from a few more. She started auditioning hoping for 1 offer and has been fortunate to have several. She has met alot of wonderful people along the way too. Some of the auditioners have been great people!! Any thoughts??</p>