Page 60 - Classical Singer magazine 2019 Fall University Issue

THE WELL-
ROUNDED
STUDENT:
Studying across Disciplines
BY MARGARET FELICE
There are many ways to enhance your educational experience, and doing so will make you a much stronger singer.
You’ve arrived at college to study music and you’re ready to start singing! If you’re a freshman, chances are good that you have a few requirements on your schedule in other departments. Maybe you’re a few years in and have electives to take, or perhaps you are a double major balancing voice studies with other subjects. No matter your situation, you can expect to take classes on topics unrelated to singing.
A very informal poll of my friends and colleagues revealed that all of them found non-music classes useful in their careers as musicians. No one said, “I wish I had never done anything other than sing!” After hearing many stories about enriching experiences outside of their degree requirements, I would summarize them into four pieces of advice: make the most of your requirements, pay attention to what interests you, learn where your music comes from, and look outside the classroom.
Make the Most of Requirements
Many (if not all) undergraduate music programs will include a writing course. Didn’t expect to be grilled on grammar at conservatory? They’re doing it for your own good. Anything that makes you a better communicator is going to help you in this business. Even the emails you send when you submit materials to a company or inquire about a gig re ect on your professionalism.
Singers also write program notes, press materials, professional bios, and more. If you are in a show, the company might ask you to write a short social media post about your experience with the production. The more versatile you are as a writer, the more chances you will have to get your name out there.
60 Classical Singer | September/October 2019
Laura Loge in concert with Knut Erik Jensen.