Rick's Rant Ep. 3 - Is It Worth It To Go To Music School?

In my latest installment of Rick's Rants, we discussed how to make a living after graduating from music school, making money in the music business, promoting your music on social media, why Steve Albini didn't keep his royalties from Nirvana, can you make money as a songwriter in today's music economy, is it worth it to go to music school, how to get paid more as a sideman, the truth about studio internships!!
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[@michaelsoltesz3779]

If you can’t communicate with people, you can’t make a living. - Rick Beato Thank you Brother!

[@michaelsoltesz3779]

Haha! Interesting interpretation! Not what I meant, exactly... But yes, you should definitely tell her if that is how you feel.

[@JeffMasonProject]

Basic job skills in any field

[@MrJackPeppers]

I feel crippled by my shyness and lack of communication skills. I had a girl tell me once that she had never seen such a shy guy in her life when she met me. That got to me... Fuck.

[@briangreene7085]

Michael Soltesz - Well then I'm fucked! haha

[@DarkPanthera]

@@MrJackPeppers I'm sure there's much more shy guys than you. Don't compare yourself. like any other skill out there, u just got to practice so you become better at communication; Same with singing, dancing, exercising, painting, communicating, etc. Etc. If it's doesn't come naturally to you, it just takes practice x

[@aidanhodgesmusic5257]

Everytime I watch a Rick Beato video, I feel like Im getting a music business education for free. Thanks Rick.

[@prism8289]

Full Sail says it all. For profits colleges are a rip off. Full Sail is notorious, in this as well as the visual arts. At the same time, avoid colleges that are heavily conceptual. They won’t teach you skills. Ask them concrete cases of what their RECENT alumni are doing. Do not just accept 1 or 2 cases. You want to see a TREND of alumni doing well. Also, use something like Linked In to search out alumni and see what jobs they are working.

[@JazzBear]

I’ve been working in studios and playing gigs for a living my entire life. And I never went to music school. But I grew up around great musicians. And they taught me. I think the best education in music is through private lessons with great teachers.

[@TechTomVideo]

The problem with Jazz is, that you have to practise a very very long time, just to have the same size of audience at the end of your carrer, as you had at its beginning.

[@gulfcoastbeemer]

Rock: a handful of chords, an audience of thousands; Jazz: thousands of chords, a handful of people. Sad.

[@svengordonwilliams5152]

well if you play like anybody else and do not create something new (consumable) that's the true fact... but there are examples of people doing well like snarky puppy and others...

[@Fr3nchFrise]

Go tell that to badbadnotgood, they made something innovant, they giged all over the world and Snoop Dog used them as a sample

[@IgnorancEnArrogance]

@@gulfcoastbeemer - That's why some artists will do both. Make a big rock album for the money then use that money to make the jazz experimental album you always wanted. Prince comes to mind in this situation. Almost every album of his would switch between big time pop rock success and weird ass experimental electronic/jazz music.

[@smitlag]

To understand jazz you must listen to jazz. Since it is hard to find good jazz stations on the radio, one must either go online or to some satellite streaming service. If all you are exposed to are rock power chords or strictly major or minor chords, you are not going to like the sound of extended voiced chords. But jazz players are often their own worst enemy, much as classical players are. If you snub musically uneducated potential audiences, then you better plan on lugging your own equipment and sleeping in your car for the duration of your career.

[@chrisridenhour]

“If you want to get laid, go to college. If you want an education, go to the library.” - Frank Zappa

[@frank2778]

If you want to get laid by a Rhino, go to the zoo. If you want to contract syphilis, sleep with someone you meet at a Zappa concert. In brief, Capitalism turns everyone into pimps and whores.

[@Wingsoficarus90]

Love this

[@neodasarts4287]

Time to go to college 😂

[@emileconstance5851]

@@neodasarts4287 Go to college and do both.

[@neodasarts4287]

@@emileconstance5851 Yes ok I will I will go to college and I will do both.

[@tilleyroadaffairproduction6752]

I started a new life as a music composer at age 53.

[@emmanuela3663]

Tilley Road Affair Productions When did you start playing?

[@zachary4670]

Did you really? That’s wonderful!

[@Brandon-tz5pn]

Crazy thing is ive been worrying that its too late for me to become a music composer as a career and im only 22.

[@donnyjones6717]

Great man that's wonderful well since you're 53 years young I know they say you cant teach an old dog new tricks but I dont necessarily believe that age is a mindset as they say a number and learning never gets old so always be open to ideas and new ingenuity theres alot to learn about music but just when you figure it out theres always more ways to do the same thing. I would advise taking up a DAW (FL STUDIO,ABLETON,CUBASE) some are costly some are free Fl studio I know is free but the free version dont let you save anything that's when you gotta spend a little bit about 200 dollars. But I suggested it so that way you can have an actual visual representation of what your composing I know that sheet music is the same thing but sometimes it helps to actually hear what it is your doing especially if you dont want to pick up an instrument a Daw although not an instrument it's still a pretty good option to hear oh a F major #5 b7 or some complex unique chord like that or even just chord progressions in general all you have to do is click and I know everybody got some form of a finger. So congratulations on your new journey I wish you the best of luck

[@donnyjones6717]

@@Brandon-tz5pn Its never too late your 19 years younger than this man so guess what you got 19 years to get started too. Jk I'm not promoting procrastination but if you're going to start your journey I would advise taking an instrument or better yet find a DAW (FL STUDIO,CUBASE,ABLETON PROTOOLS PROTOOLS is probably the best imo) so that way if you dont want to learn an instrument and just composing having a DAW would also not only make it a visual but also an oral representation of the music your making. But other than that have fun and most importantly dont be close minded if you think you've figured it out trust theres more out there for you to learn. Good luck

[@Skatinima]

To anyone considering going to college, but has to take a 5-figure or a 6-figure loan: Realize that you're not just taking a loan; you're signing a perpectual servitude agreement. You can't default on your loan; you're stuck with it. Think really hard before you take the loan.

[@twocsies]

Also research your options. Studying abroad may cost a lot less money. But realistically, studying in the US but taking out less than a five figure loan? How is that possible?

[@LesterBrunt1983]

Exactly. Just spend those 6 figures on gear.

[@twocsies]

6 figures on gear and a DeadMau5 Masterclass and I bet that's enough.

[@kevinjoseph517]

jc

[@tobiaschisenga5457]

Zambia 07hrs

[@GearZenChannel]

30 years ago I came very close to chasing the dream of a life in music. Seeing the current state of the industry, I am glad I went in another direction.

[@dianevanderlinden3480]

Yeah. I almost quit my government job ( years ago) when my band got a record deal. We had a death metal band during the heyday of Morrisound Studios. Lots of those musicians still had to have day jobs, even those in signed bands. In any case, glad I stayed with my job as we lost the deal. Music doesn’t have to be your ‘job.’ So much ego involved in that idea. Just make your music. Make art.

[@Youtubefan567]

I'm 4 years late but what Rick described is what I went through. I went to Mercy College for Music Tech and graduated in 2010. I learned Pro Tools, Reason, and Logic pretty decently (I knew a lot of shortcuts and understood how to mix pretty well) and learned how to mic up drums, guitar, bass, and other instruments (which Rick said Full Sail doesn't teach for some reason). Graduated with a 3.7 GPA. Interned at 2 studios (post and music studio) for 3 months each for free and all I did was make coffee and didn't help on any sessions, plus freelanced doing location and post audio for free on like 12 short films, and then did live sound at local bars below min wage or for $100 a night a couple times a month (basically as a sub). I couldn't get any steady freelance, part time, or full time work and I sent my resume to literally every studio, bar, and film studio I saw in NYC over 3 years. So after working for free or a very low rate which pays far below min wage when you look at my yearly income I got out of the field and went it IT. Best decision I've made! Believe it or not, A LOT of IT people that come from an audio engineering & music background go into IT. So skip Music school. Learn for free / low cost online courses on how to use the software (like Ableton, Pro Tools, and Logic) which I paid thousands and thousands of dollars for (which wasn't worth it) and do it as a side hobby in a home studio you can make for a small cost compared to a degree which does nothing for you or do youtube or make your own music.

[@BryanGrigsby]

I had a similar experience, went to school for business, couldn't find anything great, then went into IT. 17 years in now as a network architect, pursuing music as a hobby. I was having a little FOMO on wishing I could go back to school for music, but your post gave me some assurance. My wife has a similar story, got her master's in biology, couldn't find any work, went into IT.

[@boblob2003]

I always tell my kid, "never go to college where it costs more than you'll make when you get out".

[@Memento_Mori_Music]

Wow Rick. Besides the fact that you understand music theory on such a high level and you know tons about production and the music biz in general; I really respect your intellectual honesty! (E.g. your comments on the Cash Me Ousside song).

[@nickcarlson6860]

Rick - an American living in Kazakhstan (+ 10 hours) i watch your stuff all the time. you've helped me to really appreciate a number of songs I've known for years. thanks for what you do

[@areschuni152]

Cool. I also live in there

[@marcusstoica]

I'm in college for engineering right now (graduating next winter) and I routinely think about how much of a waste of time my degree is and how I should quit so that I can practice more. It's good to hear a pro's insight on this and comforting to know that even people in the industry also have many of the same frustrations that I do. Thanks Rick.

[@strokerace4765]

Little girl was a musical genius, impressed people her her life, got a music scholarship and got a degree in music. Couldn’t get a job in music industry, went into teaching public school music. She hated children and is the most miserable person ever.

[@jelenaoberman]

Yes, yes, yes! When you go to music school you learn about discipline and respect for public. You learn how to practice, you learn how to think, you develope music taste, you learn how to understand music. There’s so much benifit one could never imagine. It’s not just the knowledge and the skill. I love that fact that my mother send me to a music school. ❤️

[@albertibass6521]

Instead of paying a quarter million for an education that probably won't get you a studio gig, take 20 grand, find a basement apt in Brooklyn, go book 4 hours time in every studio in Manhattan, get the engineer to teach you ProTools, plug ins, signal flow, etc. (he'd rather do that than record your "shitty track"...believe me, that's what he's thinking,) be very charming and order sushi for the staff (they won't forget you,) introduce yourself to the owner or manager (after you buy the sushi) and leave your business card, telling him how badly you always wanted to work and learn in his amazing studio. Do this 6-10 times all over W.30 St., and you will get a studio job and you'll be working the console in 6-12 months. You are very welcome.

[@CaptJackAubreyOfTheRoyalNavy]

But that takes drive and people skills!

[@kevinjoseph517]

build a lil studio and charge money....beat em at their game

[@SexycuteStudios]

Ask Louis Rossmann how that worked out for him......

[@KT-bc1ql]

You can buy online courses, books or even do tutorials from yt to learn music production

[@RoyMaya]

In a way this is kind of your best video, Rick. Lots of truths here that young people need to hear.

[@chrishowellimages]

You could take like 10 years of very high quality private music lessons for 15k.

[@chrishowellimages]

@@kalijasin oh yeah?

[@dwodo21]

This is invaluable information! This applies to many professions, not just the music business. Awesome ‘rant’!

[@lopezb]

I love it that Rick just tells it the way it is. The honesty and openness are so refreshing- even if it's sometimes hard to hear the truth, because he's fundamentally a warm and caring guy.

[@lopezb]

"they don't tell you at these schools that there's no money in these jobs, and very very few jobs out there..."

[@ccselementarymusic3968]

"Someone needs to die"....so true. Thank you for telling the truth, Rick. People need to hear this information.

[@MartyWinsch]

Institutions of high learning are prohibited from educating students about the essential contributors to a successful career in music for two reasons. First, these institutions and the circulums are too large administratively hence they lack the capacity to react in a timely manner as market conditions change too quickly. They lack the capacity to continually educate the educators as the cheese is constantly in motion. By the time they role out the latest and greatest “techniques” the techniques have more or less become obsolete. Second, admitting the truth, as you’ve pointed out, about the lack of available jobs and the low probability of having a successful career in music devalues the value of their educational product. Therefore, it is in their best interest financially to hide the harsh reality of the business of music and instead play into the emotional side of the equation forgoing any intrinsic admittance. Keep up the great work Rick! You are doing great things here. Best, Marty

[@RickBeato]

+Marty Winsch You are a smart man Marty!

[@MartyWinsch]

Rick Beato Learned a bunch from you over the years brother. The folks who are tuning into you here are certainly receiving the best education available about the biz.

[@prism8289]

@@RickBeato all true, mostly the second. I was in Admissions at some world famous art schools and Director at some not so famous ones. Some are extremely dedicated to developing students for the pro world, and their technology puts some pro places to shame. Kids get a fully loaded Wacom Studio computer when they enter. They have a lot of success, but still the education costs a fortune. But one of the biggest - by far - problems is when is an entrenched faculty who don’t want to update their skills, or think that teaching career based stuff is somehow demeaning to the ART. This is especially so in the fine arts, despite those fine arts profs making money off teaching. When I was a Director, I begged painting instructors to throw in a class on Photoshop, to use it is a production aid, so that kids could get digital skills that would complement their fine art pursuits. I begged the sculptors to do a class in a digital sculpting, which can lead to very well paying jobs in the animation and gaming industry. Absolute resistance. Now, all these same schools that resisted reality, merely to protect themselves and never have to learn something new, are dying or are dead.

[@oneeyedmonster9827]

Hey from Mill Valley, CA Really love this channel. So glad I found it.

[@jhesbol]

This is perfect and I wish I would have had this information in the 90s when I went to school. I did my Bachrlor’s degree in Classical Guitar at Indiana University. I was good enough to get into the school but not on scholarship. When I graduated I was utterly unprepared for the hard reality that faced me. I kicked around for a few years before going to Musician’s Institute in LA; an experienced which changed and defined my musical path. Wish I would have done that out of high school. Thank you for putting it out there!

[@chrisridenhour]

Someone asked Frank Zappa how he was so educated in music. His answer, the library.

[@rugbyelite1361]

You definitely can't get what Frank Zappa had from a library lol. All ACDC had were 3 chords haha. You can't get charisma from a book

[@MarcPlaysDrums]

@@rugbyelite1361 the reference is music not charisma. What Frank learned can definitely be learned at a library. Had he been born a few decades later his answer would have been google.

[@Adammonroemusic]

Sad truth is that If college professors knew anything about how to make a living from music, entrepreneurship, ect. they wouldn't be college professors.

[@randyvanvliet226]

Those that can, do, those that can't, teach. Well known, in any profession or failure of said profession that they can't make a living at it any more. They washed out.

[@annv6781]

Life is Ironic like that!

[@johnclever8813]

As a mathematician, I want to say that academic mathematics and physics is so, so, much harder than applied, industry mathematics and physics. Same thing with philosophy, which is just as difficult as the hard sciences, in my mind. The analytic school of philosophy, although I dislike it, is essentially mathematics and linguistics these days. It also pays very little, unless you make it to some Ivy League place or something. I don’t know if this is true for music, but to become a full professor you have to do extensive research. Most professors in actual subjects (mathematics, philosophy, physics, chemistry, engineering) are some of the smartest people I’ve ever met, and hate working in industry because of how boring it is, despite the high pay.

[@fabricio_santana]

simple truth rarely acknowledged

[@garajplaz3513]

I disagree. You are leaving out chemistry. A good profitable band needs several things. 1. Band chemistry - each member can be an all-star on his instrument, but if they can’t groove onstage or in all the waiting hours, then a profitable band won’t work. 2. Booking gigs is a time consuming process and getting money after the gig is also as annoying. 3. Musicians also need to eat - and teaching is one way to pay the bills. I don’t know how many gigs I’ve played, but there were times that in the tour bus or between sets, I had to jump off and finish up the daytime job.

[@davidnelson7972]

Great educational video Rick. I do want you to know, that luckily for me, I did see an add for your channel on FB. Never heard of you. Had no idea what you were about, or what your agenda was. Now I have been following your channels for a couple of months, and so glad that add popped up. Keep up the great work, and I push your work every chance I get, because musicians need someone who knows and can explain the business, the music, the work that needs to be done. God Bless my friend .

[@salmazzotta4247]

Hey Rick! Been subscribed since you had around 60k subs. Finally got the chance to buy your book. Rick Rants are my new favorite pastime. They're better than almost every lecture I've had in 7 years of music school. Thanks for always delivering great content.

[@melvincruz5129]

Hafa Adai (hello in the Chamoru language), from the beautiful island of Guam. Love all your content.

[@EclecticHillbilly]

Interns as slave labor really isn't exclusive to the music business.

[@RoyMaya]

That's the truth! It's time for our government to start cracking down on the abuses. This is not how it was originally intended to be used.

[@joshcharlat850]

It's par for the course in Italy. Criminal anywhere.

[@datther]

Few interns do slave labor. Students who are lucky enough to get them, though, have a hell of a lot better chance of getting a job after graduation. The internship is Rguably more valuable than the degree

[@mrdragoon3344]

Roy Maya it's actually illegal tho. People just don't know it.

[@WhoWouldWantThisName]

They have always been unpaid positions, for the most part. The whole idea was for students to get hands on experience while in school so they would have some experience upon graduation. Some companies internships are more educational, in practical ways, and more valuable than the schooling. An internship at Amazon, for example, is very good to have on your resume because they actually do use you HARD and not just to fetch coffee. I know someone that did so as an accountant and she said she learned more in her first year with them than her entire four years of college, and she went to a major University. That got her a better job elsewhere then most of her peers have today.

[@smilsmff]

my son went to one of these schools for music, Studio or something to do with , 15 ,000 dollars one year, ABSOLUTELY NO JOBS AVAILABLE

[@stevenlebeau]

In the late 2000s, I interned at a recording studio in San Francisco called Broken Radio--formerly Coast Recorders--on 10th and Mission for about three months. It was understood that I would not be paid, I was never offered studio time or the opportunity to work on projects, and worked my ass off sometimes 12 hours a day because I wanted to show my enthusiasm and work ethic. The studio owner made it clear that I would never be hired as an assistant engineer because he didn't want to take money away from his engineer friends. He also said he always kicks interns to the curb after three months because (in his words) "you can't be an intern forever." I went into that internship expecting that I'd learn by assisting in sessions, but instead, I basically helped them by pulling out fiberglass insulation and coming home every day covered in sweat and pink fluff. Why did I keep going if I knew I wouldn't get paid and wouldn't be promoted? Because like a lot of naive kids, I thought I could change his mind.

[@KipIngram]

Great video, Rick. This really is EXACTLY the sort of thing that young people in all industries need to hear - the world is changing all the time, and when you get a chance like this to hear HOW part of that's important to you is changing, you better listen.

[@samanthacollier8933]

Why did it take so long for KZbin to recommend this video to me? (not as an ad, I am a Rick Beato follower for a long time). I have been searching for an honest and true opinion about music schools since the moment I decided that I want to study music production. Thank you! After watching this video I have decided to choose a more affordable school and focus more on putting my music out there. I really appreciate your willingness to share your experience to help young musicians ❤️

[@jamesmyl3061]

As always thank you PROFESSOR!

[@MasterChief-sl9ro]

My friends son goes to Manhattan School of Music. He just tried out for the Boston Symphony. He come in 3rd out 500+ and he is only 24. the other two where in there mid 30's.. He was down for about a day. Then I told him. John Powell had taken 20 years to make his break through. So make all the connections you can. As it's about who you know. So if a position opens up. Then remember your name....

[@jamiethomson8494]

Love your work ,I learn something every time I tune in!

[@RealHomeRecording]

Hey Rick! Thank you for honestly talking about music recording schools. That's why I made the site Don't Go to Recording School because the truth needs to be put out there. Thank you for saving people time and money.

[@yoshiYoish]

Finally! I always miss your live because we live in different time zone. I pray that you'll do this everytime!

[@petert6061]

Great info Rick!. Hope ur ok!, hope you can continue to be such a helpful light. All the best Rick.

[@Actalzy]

Listening to your rant on the music industry brings to mind the video for Korn's 'Y'all want a single'. Video is important, song is okay but the video takes it up a lot and really echoes everything and more about your words on the state of the music industry. Great stuff, glad I found your channel.

[@Onemindmusicnyc]

As a music professional in NYC who has a degree in music, we have a saying here which probably dates me. With a degree in music and a token you can get on the subway. Love your content. New fan

[@imskydrop1251]

Rick I found your channel due to the katy perry lawsuit but honestly, the way you're so forthright and down to earth brings a much needed perspective I feel more people should be listening to. Thank you for what you do.

[@MarkMcPeak5895]

Thanks for exposing the reality of music schools and the post school job market.

[@mooseboy66]

Rick Thanks for telling the truth about making a living in the music business. Ive been earning most of my living from music since i was 17 and im 39 now. I grew up in the 90's and many of my High school classmates went on to be pro musicians, touring, gigging, recording ... I have two friends who toured with beyonce and another two that are touring band members with 2 different major popular christian artist. Not to mention all the gigging musicians ive known that play jazz and all other styles. The other day i mentioned to my girlfriend that I was sitting and thinking about all the musicians that ive known in my life that are still playing and I couldnt think of a single one that is still surviving in this business as a full time player. Everyone here in Houston still has to teach, gig, work at a church, have a wife with a good job or be a computer programmer or have real estate rentals to survive comfortably living their dream. Most Houston musicians are employed at churches. I remember my friend posting a picture on his FB of himself playing a show in NY central park with thousands of people. That same month he told me he couldnt make the rent for the garage apt he was renting from me. Lol To all young musicians ... Good Luck!

[@captainkangaroo4301]

I’ve been doing it for forty years. Thanks mostly to a very understanding wife with a great job.

[@osspillkits]

This is a very eye opening important discussion for everyone to hear in every industry and the value of college. Great show

[@georgecaplan11]

This is great advice for any career and not just music. Thanks.

[@marktyler3381]

Super useful advice - I think that this is utterly necessary info.

[@itsChadM]

Thanks for the great advice !! 👍

[@brianblackwood3120]

Man I absolutely love your channel. I write and record my own music and your breakdown of Andy Wallace has helped my mixing.

[@therealnashvillerock]

right on Rick! even though one networks, it is a me biz now, back in the day someone would recommend someone, now it is about putting a face on a hit, by the publishing Co. and whoever is in the club. So happy you did this Rant & telling it like it is! Thanks for sharing and letting the up and coming, young artist that get sucked in the smoke & mirrors.

[@foto21]

When I was college age, 4 years of private music school would cost 40k. That debt could be paid back. 400k will never be paid back, that's as much as a nice house, which will benefit your entire life long term. You can pick every single topic and get a tutor for it. $2600 will buy 26 lessons from a skilled professional, and you may be able to find cheaper from younger teachers. You can teach yourself mixing, and spend the money on gear, not education. KZbin is FREE education. Pay a tutor for the parts you can't put together.

[@graffitiabcd]

I hardly think this can live up to the music school education at 40k though. But happy to see we're getting closer to a point where free education matches, and even surpasses the educational industrial complex in it's quality.

[@foto21]

@@graffitiabcd A real education could be worth the 400k (not that number), but it really depends what comprises it, especially music and arts education. Art has to be a traditional route these days. Music is harder to pin down. People need to start on instruments long before college. College should adjust to the student and fill in gaps. Also depends what the goal is, and that has to determine the route. All I know is colleges aren't generating as many quality songwriters and performers as they should.

[@graffitiabcd]

@@foto21 I completely agree with most of what you say. I would like to point out, that I was trying to derive worth solely from what you would learn (more structured learning process, better resources, more immediate help and collab opportunities). So in a sense, I do think it's worth going to college for the arts, and music, in that you learn so much more in a much more suitable environment for learning. I just generally hate the concept of having to pay (at least very very large amounts like here in the US) for education, so I hope that changes and it actually becomes more "worth it".

[@foto21]

@@graffitiabcd Certainly, a school environment helps with all the socialization and chances to meet musical collabs, but one can meet musicians other ways also. This is the one thing that sample jockeys will generally miss, though they deal with vocalists, so they have to learn that side. I think other than actual playing an instrument, competence in the studio matters, and software offers a lot, but it can't keep you from having to spend minimum 2 years to get somewhere with mixing. I graduated college but not in music. In my case, studio school would've helped me enormously. I learned it eventually, but it was a struggle. Anyway school with great teachers is unbeatable, I just don't know if it beats saving 200k and using that on specialized tutors and still going out and jamming with people. Bands and gear cost money also. Lots of bands didn't start in schools, though most band leaders achieve some level of education. When I've researched a top personal trainer, and paid the money, it's always been worth 10x what I got out of a classroom, because they assess where you are at, and give you a path to actually get better and maybe good.

[@graffitiabcd]

@@foto21 okay, yes. to all of that :p I guess I was just coming from a perspective that (a) formal education is really amazing and often hard to compare with (b) formal education right now is also unnecessarily expensive cause it is a heavily profit-oriented industry (unlike the rest of the community-based resources you mention). So while a music education is great, I agree that often it is not really worth it given how much cheaper and more readily accessible some of the other resources are.

[@chrispaterson7607]

Really interesting! Thanks Rick

[@ronaldboykin9755]

Rick, I once temporarily developed perfect pitch by riding the BART train in California Bay Area. The electric BART train put out a A 440 hum that I memorized! I used this note to hear other relative pitches ! I studied ear training in college!

[@piddlepond]

word of mouth is still important. thanks for mentioning those other channels.

[@jerryphobi]

thank you Rick, great rant

[@kearonandrewobrien7460]

Hi From South Africa Thanks for your comments,all your teaching

[@annv6781]

Ek ook! Good stuff!

[@StefanoPapaleo-TS]

I see "Rick's Rant 3" on my feed, I just click on it! What better way to enjoy my breakfast;)

[@Bronco541]

Ricks rants are the best rants

[@BlackRootsUNLIMITED]

I've always played by ear, self taught. However, I REALLY wish I could read Music. I think it's such an added bonus to one's Music abilities. Greetings from Uganda 🇺🇬👊🏿🖤

[@briandaniels2126]

Thanks for a great "RANT" video Rick on the pitfalls of going to school for a music degree and what you must do once you have that knowledge in order to succeed.I found it all very educational.I'm a 45 year old singer/songwriter and former heroin addict almost 5 years sober(on 9/16/19 it's been 5 years) coming to the end of my treatment and trying to do what I want with the second half of my life instead of working a job I can't stand to pay the bills.I've been in bands most of my life as a rhythm guitar player,lead vocalist and the main songwriter writing 95 to 99.9% of the material performed.During my whole life I have been recording myself on small analog and digital Tascam 4 and 8 tracks and have a great base knowledge of recording and mixing myself and have recently been considering going to school to get a degree in the music production and recording engineer fields for both my own music and to attempt to build a career in recording and engineering.However,after watching this video rant I am thinking since I already have some recording and mixing knowledge am I better off going to school for a business degree and just trying to teach myself what I don't know about production and engineering in a studio?The science of mastering is one of the things I also don't know alot about.Basically I need to learn the bigger equipment and spend some time with pro tools as well as the old analog machines.I know I don't want to be some studio head's errand boy and slave for nothing and not get to use any of the things I will learn in a music production and engineering course.Thanks for any feedback and your time as well as for this awesomely educational video,peace

[@MrB_Chamberlain]

You should narrate books. You have a way of telling stories that I just love!

[@keithruddell1800]

this question was basically never asked 15 years ago and now i think i heard about it on a youtube vid at least once a week. i enjoyed music school. i would recommend it. follow your dreams.

[@robthequiet]

When I graduated from the Recording Workshop in Chillicothe, OH, a few years back, I could clean and align a tape head, place mikes, run the board, insert effects, mix down and edit on/to 1/4-inch, and solder XLR jacks. I have a mix tape for the 5 sessions I actually did hands on under supervision. There were pop quizzes and a test involved. Felt pretty good about myself, and only about $2500 or so out of pocket, including trailer with 2 roommates to sleep in. I then ended up working an AV tech gig at conferences and meetings, which eventually parlayed into an electronic tech job with a side job working a record shop. Stayed hungry as long as I could, but had to get into an IT consulting gig and that paid for a 4-track cassette player, a couple of keyboards and guitars, and I did my best work for zero money and zero audience. Went to a couple of record release parties as a nobody, which was depressing. Big whoop. However, 30 years later, I get the greatest pleasure out of writing songs and music just for my own head, so maybe I'll just release myself on KZbin and Instagram and maybe someone will buy my music on Bandcamp or something. I have a feeling that I will do better now than I would had I gone to Hollywood back in the day. Here's a question: Wouldn't it be better just to spend a few grand on a computer, camera, protools and a couple of mikes and learn the ropes myself rather than go to Berkeley or GIT? The whole academia thing seems very self-serving, if not self-dealing, imo.

[@joebobhenrybob2000]

As a former music major and current songwriter with a little project studio, I'd say do it yourself. The closely guarded secrets at studios and slowly doled out at colleges are all free and more concisely taught on youtube I really like Studio One because it is easy to use and there's a free version. Reaper is $60. For mics, for a project studio, I recommend get ONE Lewitt mic with whatever your mic budget is. You will get maximum bang for buck and save a ton of time searching if you just do that. Seriously just get a Lewitt. Put that mic on a quality adjustable gooseneck. You can then quickly reposition it transitioning between instruments or singing plus avoid workspace clutter. I recommend against getting 2 or more meh mics instead of 1 good one.

[@frederickdeangelis9314]

Always enjoy your insight

[@44scoots]

All the way from the little country of Fairport, NY!!! Hey Rick!

[@glenesis]

Thanks for another great rant, Rick! The amount of work required to survive in this business is always colossal. At 52, I don't know how to do anything aside from making records. Outside of actual sessions, promotion is often an uphill battle for me, but I found your rant oddly encouraging. The one thing about the endless line of free labor standing behind us is that more often than not, a client gets what they pay for ;-) There is no substitute for our experience. Thanks for sharing so much of yours. Cheers!

[@aliceboccafogli9010]

I am watching this while waiting for my next students in one of the music school I work at 😊 but also going nuts editing the first record of my (classical music) ensemble. A bit of everything...

[@MrSamadolfo]

Chicago here, Another Apple Rant please 🍎😍

[@szymbl]

Everything he said, spot on. This is not just about college, he shares a lot of information about the music business.

[@johndalepoole]

I adore you Rick Beato!

[@gagamoola]

glued to your videos..love this info,, really like all the gear talk as well.. all though i am 58 and self taught player.. your smarts and training really makes me feel like a hack.. lol.. but its fun in the basement pro-sumer world.. so glad i found your channel!

[@timchalmers1700]

Great rant !!

[@cyprianmontague8016]

Great information in this rant btw.

[@MonkeyBizArt]

some of the best pieces of advice I have ever heard. I wish somebody had told me these things 12 years ago, I would have made very different choices, even though luckily in Italy education isn't so expensive

[@saxophobe]

This is an interesting topic to me, as I did my BME at a private university, then I did my MM at a large public university that is considered a "jazz school". I'm an older guy, so I did this in the dial up days of AOL. I was able to make money playing gigs, still do, but I was naive about taxes. Needless to say, the situation got really messed up and took a long time to get un-messed up. Nowadays, the jazz school I went to now teaches business of music classes. I also counsel younger players about the perils of self-employment taxes, a small part of being an entrepreneur. Great channel!

[@MarshallSetUps]

Twenty thumbs up! Truth. Thanks Rick.

[@ericstory3083]

Thanks for making the great videos

[@LukeyLicks]

Bloody gold Mr Beato

[@emilynguyen1964]

I am thankful for your advice

[@MoneyCrespin]

I agree with Rick Beato! I went to CRAS and I learned a lot there, but no studios to pay employees.

[@alephgates7519]

Wow so much great info!

[@samuelandrade3117]

We love you, from Brazil!!!!!!!!!!!!! Send us a gretting...to Brazil

[@agrainofmalt]

I've been watching a heap of your videos lately, Rick, and your subscribers have jumped approximately 4000 in just a few days! Spreading the good word ;) Love your work!

[@fuxleo]

thx for sharing your huge experience so freely!greez fromswitzerland 👋

[@RogerBarraud]

35:20 Great Meta-Message, Rick! :-)

[@JohnPMusic]

Great info Rick, spot on. Been there, done that unfortunately. However, I kept swimming and now pay my bills from gigging.

[@MichaelRose-gp9pj]

Two options folks could consider: Taking a course(s) or certificate in Entertainment Technology at a local community college (that's the name for the program at my local community college). They are usually cheaper than any "Pro" school like Full Sail and often cheaper than courses in a state university system. Often you can take a course or two at a time instead of having to be a full-time student. Other option: if your local public library has a subscription to LinkedIn Learning database, with a public library card, you can register within the database and have access to over 1000 courses on music production, DAW software, and more. Some of these are just long videos but a lot of them have testing or learning exercises included.

[@JQbravo]

Domo Arigato, Mr. Beato!

[@jessemontano6399]

I grew up addicted to music, lead singing, back up, lead guitar, writing, recording, gigging, so naturally i figured an audio engineering degree would be best. As it turned, NOT getting a degree in studio engineering was the best decision ive ever made.

[@salehalkwarit8511]

that was very helpful to listen to ,, thanks a lot

[@johnonder6877]

Fantastic advice!!!

[@saxophobe]

As I watched the end of this video, something occurred to me; the topic of music school and if it's worth it. I think one thing you have to consider is what you are paying for when you go to college. What you are really paying for is time; time to learn the concepts the instructor is talking about, time with like-minded individuals to bounce these ideas/concepts off of, and time to integrate these ideas/concepts into your own gestalt. I think this is a very important consideration when talking about if music school is worth it.

[@kevinmason3894]

Net working was the first thing I learned when I moved to Nashville in he early 90s if you are a great player and have a great attitude you can get plugged in pretty quick!

[@thelastnote1664]

I relate to what you just said so much. I had a class in a music school in Paris on how to make a living as a musician. He was really honest and said if you wanna make a living in music, you've got to be a really good business man and not a good musician. After finishing my school I did about two years of unemployment and then went back to university. I'm currently finishing my bachelor in management and then going for a master degree in entrepreneurship. Listening to your rant makes me think I've done the right decision and you're right, the information needs to get out of there. Paying $350k sounds ridiculous but then again it's more of a north american system issue and it's a topic where I'd prefer to keep my opinion ;) This channel is awesome ! .

[@JohnMartin-dn9ez]

Thank you. Unfortunately this scenario can be applied to way too many degrees of all types. As a signed and fired former artist getting fired was the biggest break I had in the music business. People need to know this is why concert tickets are so high. Pounding the road is the only money most artists get to keep. For now. I am hearing from people I still have contact with the labels are taking live performance money also. Despicable. Thank you!!!

[@pete5668]

Orchestra positions are like the papacy. When they die, we get a new pope, or violinist, or timpanist, etc.

[@blakebonecutter]

R I C K 🅱️ E A T O

[@thesoccerlegion1]

Blake Bonecutter I believe you mean 🅱️ick 🅱️eato 😩

[@donatolepore3520]

Does it (perfect pitch) help with improvisation?

[@russellwilson9740]

Donato -Not really in my opinion. You need good sense of relative pitch, however. A lot of "wrong" notes occur otherwise.

[@lionelcampos9868]

Blake Bonecutter Bricktown nj

[@johnshields6852]

Boston. Great show Rick