BY ZEHRA RABBANI, QUEENSLAND CONSERVATORIUM GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY
Thinking of studying music at university? As a Bachelor of Music graduate, you will be highly skilled, musically adaptable, and equipped to enter professional life as a creative and flexible 21st Century musician. A degree in music can open many doors and provide you with a valuable set of skills and qualities.
Time management and discipline
Studying music at a tertiary level can be demanding of your time, and every day can look different. From lectures, tutorials, and private lessons to orchestral rehearsals, finding time to practice, and having a social life, your day can get full quickly. You’ll soon find that being organised and disciplined is essential to having a successful university career.
Classical guitar student Jeremy Stafford shares his advice:
If you plan to come to the con straight from school, I remember how tough that was. The academic workload in Grade 12 is hardcore, let alone preparing for the conservatorium’s audition on top of that. The most important thing I’d advise you to do is learn how to manage your time better. Not only will it help you get through your last year of school, but good time management skills are absolutely essential when studying an instrument at a tertiary level.
Critical reflection and problem solving
While studying music, you’ll learn and be able to think outside the box while trying to solve the task at hand. You’ll learn the importance of improvising, and how to deal with challenges that may arise before or during a performance. You’ll be able to handle stress and any challenges that may get thrown your way!
Collaboration and the ability to communicate effectively
At university, you’ll be constantly working with others, whether it be at studio recordings, ensemble practice, or orchestral rehearsals. Through your studies and performances, you will learn to communicate both verbally and non-verbally, which will also enhance your effective listening skills. While working with others, you’ll be communicating ideas and working on projects together. No matter what industry or job you apply for after university, communication is a key skill employers look for.
Creativity
Studying music opens up your creativity not just musically, but also in understanding and identifying music’s broader uses and connections in society and creating opportunities. With a collaborative approach to learning, you will have the opportunity to connect with musicians and creatives across a range of instruments and genres to discover your creative passion.
Learn more at Virtual Open House
The Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University is hosting its Virtual Open House every Tuesday and Thursday from 4-6pm until October 1, featuring one-on-one chats with study area experts, live webinars on different study areas each week, virtual classes, and more.
Register now.
Contributions by Dr Leah Coutts and Kendal Alderman. Featured image of Petah Chapman, who is a graduate of the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University. Content supplied.
