Are Music Schools/Conservatories Killing Creativity?
Many view movies like Whiplash as exaggerated portrayals of the conservatory experience—but as a graduate of top-ranked music institutions, I can confidently say: it’s not fiction.
There is a widespread glamorization of the high-pressure environments found in music schools, art academies, and ballet institutions. The prevailing idea seems to be: if a student produces great work, they can be pushed as hard as necessary. But this logic overlooks the human cost. In many of these institutions, there’s little accountability for how students are treated—especially when the priority becomes curating perfect social media content from a polished production of Sweeney Todd, rather than supporting the people who bring it to life.
So, how do we foster rigorous artistic training without stifling creativity, encouraging elitism, or compromising mental health?
It starts with a human-centered approach—one that values students not just as performers, but as people.
Ask students what they need to succeed—as individuals, musicians, and future professionals.
Balance production schedules with academic demands, so learning and wellness aren’t sacrificed for aesthetics.
Involve students in curriculum design—let them help shape the training they receive.
Treat students as professionals, holding them accountable for their artistic choices while giving them room to take risks and make mistakes.
Incorporate improvisation and composition into core training—not just as electives, but as essential skills that build originality and voice.
By rethinking our approach to conservatory training, we can encourage excellence and innovation—without losing sight of the people behind the performance.
