It includes, but is not limited to, the art of performing, listening to, and enjoying music in a variety of styles, the history of music throughout time, the methods to notate and preserve music from one generation to another, the analysis of music, music education, music performance, the business of music, music technology, and participation with others in the production of ensemble music. Music is a creative, highly individual art form through which individuals may express and reveal the emotions of human experience. Music of some kind is a worldwide phenomenon, and goes back to the earliest human existence. It continues to be a major part of nearly everyone s existence as we enter the 21 st century, regardless of whatever else one might choose to do in life.
Music students have a wide range of possible careers from which to select.
Those who have achieved a high level of expertise as a singer or instrumental performer, and who love practicing and performing music more than nearly anything else, often select a music performance degree program. This would be the usual choice for a student who wishes to perform in a symphony orchestra, on the concert stage as a performing soloist or ensemble member, and often by someone who intends to operate a private music teaching studio. Students who wish to explore their creative side by writing music would usually select a composition degree program, which prepares the individual to work in the exciting field of creating music for a variety of settings ranging from the concert hall to radio and television. Individuals who aspire to teach music in the schools would elect one of several degree programs in music education. The choice of degree option would depend upon the level at which one might wish to teach.