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Students pursuing a Music Performance degree can look forward to building a career as professional musicians. Graduates in this field should be prepared for irregular schedules and earnings comparable to self-employed professionals. Those studying Music Performance will dedicate much of their academic time to rehearsing and preparing for various performance opportunities both at Illinois State University and nearby venues. Key components of the curriculum include mandatory ensemble participation and solo recitals. Career paths for classical musicians often involve performing with professional orchestras, military bands, community ensembles, and offering private instruction. Admission to Illinois State's Music program requires significant classical music training and a successful audition. A music degree cultivates artistic sensibility and deepens appreciation for human expression, skills that benefit performers across all musical settings.