Class of 26 just finished freshmen year. If he already knows what career path he would like to take, maybe he can (or you can help him) look up some real people in the professions as well as some in college pursing these professions and ask about their high school experiences.
I have known some student musicians as well as friends of my children. Two were set to become soloists (violinist and cellist) before they started 1st grade. They both maximized their practicing time, at least 3 hours daily in high school, plus chamber music (with other student musicians out of school) and summer programs. One is in Eastman now and the other going to Curtis this fall.
Four went for dual degrees (BMus + BA/BS). They practice 1-2 hours daily beyond school orchestra/band practice, plus 2-3 hours weekly in youth orchestra, and summer programs. Two of these four just graduated, one is preparing for med school, and one has opened his own studio offering private lessons to young kids.
Three are going for BMus degree only. I know one of them well enough to know he used to practice 1-2 hours daily including orchestra practice time, plus weekend youth orchestra for 3 hours. I assume the other two would have to have similar practice time since they placed higher in all-state orchestra than the one I know.
These are just a few samples. Other people’s experiences may be taken as references but should not be used as guidelines.
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