Trust me, I love being a music major. But it's pretty hard. Everyone can love music and appreciate it, but there ere are certain things you just won't understand unless if you're a music major. That being said, there are certain things that we don't want to hear. I don't blame you because they're common misconceptions, but it's time you learn. I promise you, you should never say these things to a music major:
1. You must have so much free time! It must be so easy to be a music major. You just play instruments and sing all the time?
Okay, so yes. We DO practice. A lot. The practice rooms are technically our second home. But that isn't all we do (theory, performing, going to recitals when we're already super busy, etc.) And it's not easy. Playing instruments and singing sounds fun, but it has to be correct. And that, of course, takes tons of practice, and quite a lot of tears.
2. So, what's your backup plan?
Zooey Deschanel is literally every music major's voice of reason. Music can be used for so much. People automatically assume it's going to fall through. "You can't just sing and perform for your whole life." First, not every music major does. It can be used to teach, or even for therapeutic purposes, which is highly employable. Second, you can do whatever you set your mind to. Sure, not everybody uses their major. If we need a backup plan, we'll find one when we get there.
3. How many credit hours are you taking?
This is a pretty normal question, but don't be shocked when we tell you an insane number, or when we tell you that marching band is 1 credit hour. We will survive, we'll just cry in the process and be jealous of the fact that you don't have classes on Friday, which is a luxury we will never have.
4. Why are you always so dressed up?
Performances. Performances. Performances. I'm the type of person who likes to dress up anyways, so this isn't a huge deal for me, but I laugh when someone refers to me as the girl who walks around in heels all the time. Trust me, I love sweatpants and flats most of the time.
5. So, you've accepted that you're going to be broke for the rest of your life.
Okay, so maybe music therapy won't provide me with the biggest paycheck possible. But it'll be enough for me to provide for myself. And that's all that matters, right? Plus, being able to make a difference will be the best payment. You may say, "at least you'll be doing what you love." Yes, and I will get paid some for it. But seriously, it's not going to be as bad as you may think, and I will not have to beg you for money.
6. Sing/play for me right now!
Sometimes, I'm so willing to do this. Part of my occupation will be to make up songs. But sometimes if I'm put on the spot, I can't perform to the best of my abilities for you. I apologize! Yes, I sing. But I can't hold a whole concert for you without having anything prepared!
7. You're in a very competitive field!
Trust me, I know. Don't remind me! But I'm not really here to be above anyone else but myself. :)
8. What's your favorite song?
Trust me, I will answer this and won't get annoyed with you personally for asking me this. This is just a difficult question for me to answer because there are so many good songs! You can ask me this, but I'll probably give you five different answers.
9. I hate classical music. (Or a whole genre of music.)
But the feelings I get when the music just flows and tells a story without words! But you've only listened to two of their songs! If you've only listened to some of the most overplayed songs, please, help me introduce you further. Music is great. All genres. There will be some genres that you won't like. I get that. But take the time to fully listen to that genre before making a decision. I personally don't like country music over other genres, but I can appreciate certain things about the genre. I think most of the time country music tells a story in their lyrics and it's very meaningful. Most of the time. It's just...all the little parts that make up the whole.
10. Do you like being a music major?
Yes. I really do. Over all the complaining and how hard it can get, it is the best thing ever. The community it provides is amazing, and I will always have never ending support from people who are going through the same things as me, and have the same passions as me. It's what I know I am working towards that keeps me going and I know that it will all be worth it!
