3 answers
James
Student
Londonderry, New Hampshire
1
Question
Updated
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In the professional world, how possible is it to balance a career with musicianship? #Spring25
Hi! I'm a senior in high school who's set to go off to college in the fall for molecular biology/biochemistry. I am also a trumpet player who loves playing in local community settings. #Spring25
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3 answers
Christos Kampouridis
Systems Engineer at Stealth Biomedical Startup
23
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Christos’s Answer
Hi James,
I am not a musician but I will answer from a perspective of someone who enjoys a lot of hobbies outside of work. Every person has a certain amount of meaning they derive from their personal life and their work life. This may change over time but it's important to have the self awareness. As you get going in your career, you will notice that you will have to make compromises. You can't have amazing work life balance and promotions and raises and incredible professional development and amazing work culture etc. Something has to be given up. In order to continue playing as much music as you can while in the professional world, I would recommend factoring it into your decision making for companies. Hot, new startup that seems really interesting? Probably not a good match for you. Older company that has strict on site requirements and no flexibility? Probably also not a good match. These aren't hard and fast rules. Sometimes a startup has a ton of flexibility and long hours, which might fit you better.
Ultimately I want to say that you will find time to do the things that you love. Just keep asking yourself questions: "How much meaning do I derive from work? From playing the trumpet? What kind of person do I want to be?". The closer to articulating an answer to these questions the better you'll be at making decisions in life that ultimately will make you happier!
I am not a musician but I will answer from a perspective of someone who enjoys a lot of hobbies outside of work. Every person has a certain amount of meaning they derive from their personal life and their work life. This may change over time but it's important to have the self awareness. As you get going in your career, you will notice that you will have to make compromises. You can't have amazing work life balance and promotions and raises and incredible professional development and amazing work culture etc. Something has to be given up. In order to continue playing as much music as you can while in the professional world, I would recommend factoring it into your decision making for companies. Hot, new startup that seems really interesting? Probably not a good match for you. Older company that has strict on site requirements and no flexibility? Probably also not a good match. These aren't hard and fast rules. Sometimes a startup has a ton of flexibility and long hours, which might fit you better.
Ultimately I want to say that you will find time to do the things that you love. Just keep asking yourself questions: "How much meaning do I derive from work? From playing the trumpet? What kind of person do I want to be?". The closer to articulating an answer to these questions the better you'll be at making decisions in life that ultimately will make you happier!
Grace Hicks
Writing or Journalism
6
Answers
Pelham, Alabama
Updated
Grace’s Answer
It's a good idea to make time for both your interests. It's important to focus on your schoolwork and finish it on time, especially since the subject is tough. But enjoying some music now and then is okay too. There's a right time for everything.
Amy Sarno
Philanthropy & Volunteerism Specialist
9
Answers
Corning, New York
Updated
Amy’s Answer
Hi! I think it's great to continue cultivating your enjoyment of playing trumpet. Consider what opportunities are available and the expected time commitment. Does your college / university have an open enrollment ensemble (i.e. Concert band) or a local trumpet or brass ensemble? How often does the group meet? I find that playing instrument, especially in an ensemble, makes me a happier, more collaborative person and keeps me refreshed (i.e. helps prevent burnout). It's also a great way to meet people from other disciplines which can help expand your network.