Earning a degree in performing arts is not an easy task, nor is finding a
job after graduating in certain fields. Those who choose to study
performing arts have often been participating in their interest since
they were very young, and have grown up practicing their art daily.
Performing arts degrees allow students to major in performing arts such
as dance, music, music education, acting, and design/technology.
Those who choose to work in this industry usually possess the following
qualities: outgoing, hard working, detail oriented, ambitious, and
passionate. Performers understand the need to have a great stage
presence, work very hard to be perfect in their routine, and try to earn
the lead role. Even performing art majors who do not choose to dance or
perform for a living understand how cutthroat the entertainment
business can be. Most individuals are looking to rise to the top of
their field/performance status, not stay in a lower position. Employers
find these characteristics very appealing because it means these
employees will typically work hard, complete detailed tasks quickly, and
strive to receive promotions and take on more responsibility.
By majoring in dance, participants are preparing themselves to learn
various types of dance, and how to carry out dances while developing
performance skills. Students will study dance techniques such as modern,
classical, and ballet, among others. In order to be accepted into one
of these programs, students will need to audition for faculty. Audition
pieces usually require applicants to perform a ballet or contemporary
routine.
Students who are interested in becoming an actor will study courses that
will prepare them for careers in the theatre and other related areas.
Individuals in this major need to be extremely outgoing, dramatic,
well-spoken, and creative to become successful in this position.
Students will learn about fundamental vocal and physical skills, perform
in chamber theatre, cabaret, and community performances, and hone their
skills in both solo and group work.
Individuals may also simply earn a Bachelor of Arts in Performing Arts.
This will give them a general understanding of the many skills involved
in music, drama, and dance. Sample courses may include musical theatre,
dance technique, dramatic literature, music performance, theatre
history, and dance and culture. Those who earn this degree can work in
positions such as dance performance and choreography, film and theatre
direction, talent management, and the entertainment industry business,
to name a few.
Some students choose to minor in performing arts and major in business
or English. This will give them a fundamental background in a subject
area of interest, while establishing skills more suited to a
non-performance career. For example, individuals who wish to write
screenplays would more likely major in English, and take courses that
would show how to create screenplays and how the writing would translate
to the stage.
Some of the top
performing arts schools
include American Conservatory Theater, The Actors Studio at Pace
University, Carnegie Mellon, Calarts, and DePaul. These schools have
supplied the entertainment industry with some of the best performers of
the past and present. Students have to work very hard to be accepted to a
top school, and continue laboring to perfect their art, and earn their
performing arts degree
if they are accepted. Students should research schools very carefully
when applying, as location, course offerings, and internships or
partnerships decide how much weight earning a degree will carry.
