Posted by Doug Whitten on February 08, 2004 at 21:13:48:
In Reply to: Re: Re: serious career question posted by Tracy Bedgood on February 08, 2004 at 19:55:38:
You are definitely asking yourself the right questions. Please keep in mind that in most cases, to get a college gig you'll need to have more to offer than just being a good tuba picker. Most professors of tuba teach theory, music ed., band, or something. I am sure there are exceptions, but I submit that they are rare.
Once you have a college gig, you still need to perform regularly because tenure and prootion are granted largely on your scholarly and creative activities. For many music faculty, this comes in the form of performing.
You are going to have to "pay your dues" somewhere whether you decide to go the orchestral route or into academia. In a DMA program you can get teaching experience with a teaching assistantship. As an orchestral performer, you will need to find a less-than- big time orchestra in which to hone your skills. It is rare that a tubist with no experience is invited to audition for a full time gig, let alone win.
Please know that just like pro symphony gigs, it is also a very competitive market for college teaching jobs. You may very well be able to succeed in either field, but it will take a very focused effort on your part.