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[Hudson08]

I'm a 40-year old player who played professionally for ten years or so in the late '90's - 2000's. I'm currently making a comeback and am thinking of pursuing a Masters degree in performance. I'm just curious if anyone else here has taken this kind of non-traditional route? If so, have you any thoughts or advice? If there are any college profs reading this, I'd love to get your thoughts as well. Thank you kindly.

[zaferis]

I'm not sure I have any advice beyond "study and shed"..

I've seen more players who's route was "non-traditional", with my AF band background I met many players who's schooling was interupted, postponed, etc. The cool thing about once you get the gig, and are on the bandstand/stage, no one cares how you got there.

And it's never too late to start. I didn't pick up the trumpet until I was 18... and have been fortunate enough to make a decent career out of playing and teaching. Then I was 50 when the AF set me free to look for a real job.

What is your end goal with the Masters degree (and/or beyond)? New career or just growth?
Find that studio teacher that you connect with. IMO more important to have that then the big name on the school. Network, Network, Network.

best of luck
_________________
Freelance Performer/Educator
Adjunct Professor
Bach Trumpet Endorsing Artist
Retired Air Force Bandsman

[PH]

Older, "non-traditional" students are great to work with. Clarify your goals as stated above. It's great if you apply the life skills that have already made you successful at other things to your music. It's a drag if you are intimidated or can't relate to the youngsters who will be "your peers."
_________________
Bach trumpet artist-clinician
Clinical Professor of Jazz Trumpet, University of Illinois
Professor Emeritus of Jazz Studies, Indiana University Jacobs School of Music
Faculty Jamey Aebersold Jazz Workshops 1976-2019
JazzRetreats.com

[Benge.nut]

What do yo hope that degree will get you? What are your long term goals?