Directing, Teaching And Composing With Music Pedagogy Methods

By Carolyn Wood


Whether looking to compose, direct or teach, individuals need to have knowledge of Music Pedagogy Methods to do so. In most cases, those interested in this area of study work towards a Master's or Doctorate level degree. For, with a Master's, one can either teach at a community college or private institution. Whereas, those with a doctorate can teach students how to compose, direct or teach.

While theory focuses on music and musicians, pedagogy provides the methods and principles necessary to teach others. In most cases, individuals holding a degree in this area can compose, teach and perform. Whereas, if interested in other related classes and programs, a number of options can be found on Study dot com and similar websites. It is important that before taking any online class or registering for a program that one assures it is offered by an accredited college or university.

Before individuals can acquire a Master's degree in this area, it is important to have a related major and minor. Some of these include focus on musical composition, performance, theory and history. After which, most students are eligible to move on towards a more advanced degree.

Most often, programs or degree plans in this area are focused on instrument, often being piano or voice, literature, composition and theory. When it comes to literature, most often individuals learn how to read different musical compositions and formats. Whereas, those looking to acquire a Doctorate degree often take courses which are associated with teaching and instruction.

The most common degrees associated with Voice or Piano Pedagogy are a Bachelor's Degree in Musical Arts, a Masters Degree in Musical Education or a D. M. A. In Musical Education. For, all of these degrees can provide the information and instruction necessary for an individual to become involved in instructing, teaching, composing or directing. Whether teaching at a community college, private institution or providing lessons in a home, it is the work of these individuals which leads to the success of others.

Educational methods in these areas often require hands-on activity. Since this is the case, most courses require on-campus attendance. Whereas, there may be some required courses when working towards a Bachelor's or Master's degree which an individual might be able to complete online. In either case, it is important to verify with an advisor that all credits associated with each class will count towards the overall credits necessary for graduation.

A Doctorate allows an individual to teach others how to teach music direction, composition and performance. While this is the case, there are some individuals whom also compose, direct and perform as well as teach. Whereas, a Master's allows individuals to work in a community college or as a private instructor though does not prepare the student for composition, direction or performance.

In most areas, the median wage for an instructor or teacher is approximately $35,000 per year. Whereas, those holding doctorate degrees can often earn between $50 and $75,000 per year depending on the position. As such, it often pays to continue studies as a graduate student and earn a doctorate degree. After which, the individual has many more options when it comes to working in different areas of the music industry.




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