Is Music School a Waste of Money in 2024?

Music school can cost up to $320,000 for a four-year degree.
The main benefits of music school are access to world-class musicians and teachers, high-level classes, constant performance opportunities, and a community of dedicated musicians.
The degree obtained from music school doesn't hold much weight unless you plan to stay in academia.
Many world-class musicians who teach at top schools also give private lessons, which can be a more cost-effective way to learn.
You can recreate the music school experience by moving to a city with a vibrant music scene and taking advantage of online resources.
Music school provides structure and accountability, which can be difficult to recreate on your own.
Music school can put you in a bubble, which can be a shock when you graduate and enter the real world.
Many schools offer one-year certificate programs, which can be a smaller investment with similar benefits.
For most people, music school can be seen as a waste of money, especially considering the debt and the fact that being a musician isn't typically a high-paying career.

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