When people picture a career in classical music, they often imagine a soloist on a world tour, a violinist in a world-class orchestra, a professor in a conservatory, or a private teacher running a successful studio. While those are real and viable paths, they only tell part of the story. The truth is that classical musicians today are forging careers in many different ways, and the best path for you depends on your strengths, preferences, and tolerance for certain challenges.

This guide breaks down various career paths, from the traditional to the unconventional, with a focus on the skills they demand and what daily life looks like.

What separates a good orchestral bassist from a great one? Attention to excerpts. These short passages reveal far more than technical skill. They show how deeply you understand your instrument and the orchestra itself.

That’s the idea behind Popular Orchestral Excerpt Etudes for Double Bass by Dr. Cody Williams and Jeff Bradetich, a book that turns practice into artistry. It guides players beyond mechanics toward musical storytelling.

This article explores nine essential double bass excerpts and offers practical insight into mastering each one with clarity, confidence, and control.

Prepare for your next string audition with this comprehensive guide. Learn how to build confidence, practice with purpose, review updated repertoire requirements, and bring your best performance on audition day.

As music teachers, we often seek unique ways to appreciate and inspire our students. DIY glass etching offers an elegant, personalized gift option that's both meaningful and creative. This guide will walk you through the process of using Armour Etch and vinyl decals to create stunning, music-themed glassware.

For young musicians aspiring to reach their full potential, participating in music competitions is a pivotal step in building a successful career and gaining admission to prestigious music schools. Among the myriad of competitions available, American Protégé stands out as a popular choice. However, in this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of American Protégé competitions, compare them with Radda Rise competitions, and show you why Radda Rise could be the top pick for up-and-coming musicians.

In the challenging and competitive world of music, having a well-crafted resume or CV is as crucial as having a finely tuned instrument. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with insightful knowledge and practical tools to create a compelling document that strikes the right chord with recruiters and decision-makers in the music industry. Plus we’ve created a free editable template to get you started!

Choosing the perfect music program or conservatory is a monumental decision that can shape your future in the world of music. These institutions offer top-notch education, invaluable connections, and a pathway to success in your musical career. However, it all starts with acing the application and audition process. Although applying and auditioning may be daunting, we'll be your compass in this blog post, guiding you through this exciting journey. Get ready to unlock valuable insights and tips to skyrocket your chances of success!

Are you an aspiring music educator looking to excel in your career? Landing a university teaching position in the competitive world of music requires more than just degrees. In this enlightening video, renowned violinist Danielle Belen, violin professor at the University of Michigan and a juror of the esteemed Radda Rise International String Competition, shares her invaluable insights on how to pursue and succeed in university teaching roles.

Welcome to the world of Radda, where the power of music connects individuals from across the globe. In this blog post, we invite you to explore the transformative opportunities offered by our platform, as we delve into the realm of online music competitions and the prestigious Radda Rise International String Competition & Achievement Festival. Discover how musicians of all ages can elevate their skills, showcase their talent, and forge lasting connections in the world of music.

A Survey of the Technical Innovations in Paul Tortelier's "How I Play, How I Teach" and Their Application within the Repertoire