When I first stepped into the Bachelor of Music program at CMU, I thought I had a pretty good idea of what to expect—music theory, extensive practice, and plenty of performance. What I didn’t expect were the lessons that would shape me as both a musician and a person. After two years in the program, I’ve grown in ways that I couldn’t have imagined. If I could go back and give my first-year self some advice, here are four things I wish I’d known from the very start.
1. The workload is a lot more than just performance and theory, but it’s incredibly rewarding.
What surprised me when entering CMU was the number of other skills you would learn, and how often you need to utilize them. The expectation to be proficient in more than one instrument (like voice, piano, or guitar), especially if you’re going into the Bachelor of Music Therapy program, definitely adds up. I’ve learned a lot of essential skills such as sight-reading/singing, collaborative work, composing, and arranging songs through being part of ensembles like Singers and Handbells. It was a lot more than I was expecting, but there is not a thing I’ve learned where I wish I could’ve done something else. It seems like a lot of work, but feeling like I’ve accomplished something and feeling like I’ve grown in some way is probably one of my favourite feelings.
2. It’s intimidating at first, but once you take that first step, it gets way easier.
One of my biggest struggles throughout my life was stage fright. I’ve always been afraid of singing out, despite how much passion and love I have for it. When I was younger, my parents proposed that I take voice lessons, but I refused because of my shyness and lack of confidence. When I came to CMU, I saw it as my chance to step out of my comfort zone. My voice teacher gave me the support, encouragement, and the push I needed to break free from the restraints I’ve had on me for so long. Now that I’m in my third year, my voice teacher and I sometimes like to look back at my progress and think, “Me from two years ago would be shocked at what I can do now!” I used to dread recitals, juries, and masterclasses, but all I can think of now is how excited I am to show my growth.
3. Take advantage of the practice rooms and keep using them.
I (regrettably) neglected the time I spent in a practice room in my first year. The practice rooms quickly become your second home when you get into the habit of using them. You’ll be given a chance to reserve rooms at the beginning of the year—sign up and use them. I never realized the importance of a practice room until I was panicking in my first year, wishing I had dedicated more time to practicing. Today, I use the practice rooms not only for practicing my instrument, but for recreation and improvisation if I need a break from my other studies. Developing a habit of stepping into a practice room, especially as a music student, is more important than you’d think.
4. The connections you make here are some of the best you’ll have.
I came to CMU knowing absolutely no one. As an introverted person, I thought I would struggle with making connections and getting to know people. I was proven wrong on the first day of classes. What I didn’t realize was how much music naturally creates opportunities to connect. Sitting down at recitals, harmonizing together in theory class, or sitting on the floor of a practice room while one is practicing are all moments that I felt connected to my peers. Because the program is small, you quickly get to know your peers, not just as classmates, but as friends and collaborators. By the end of the first week, I had found people that would later become some of my closest friends. These relationships have become so important for me. These are the people that encourage me before juries, give honest feedback when I need it, and celebrate with me after a performance. They’ve also helped me grow outside of music, whether that’s grabbing a coffee from folio between classes, talking through tough assignments, or simply laughing and smiling together. These are all moments that I treasure deeply.
Looking back on my time so far in the program, I can see how much I’ve grown. Not just in skill, but in confidence and community. The challenges that once felt overwhelming have become some of the most rewarding parts of my journey so far. If you’re considering this program, know that it will push you in unexpected directions—but they are exactly what make the experience worthwhile. You’ll leave with more than just musical knowledge, you’ll leave with friendships, confidence, and a deeper love for music than when you started.
Jessi Lopez is a third-year Bachelor of Music Therapy student.