Letters to the Editor
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But can he teach?!?
Hate to rain on the "let him teach" parade, but not everyone can teach, let alone enjoy teaching. Nor is it such a cake walk to grab teaching gigs anywhere, even in the private school sector, in any field rife with struggling people just like our Piano Man.
Teaching is, however, the most practical course to pursue, and the one the least likely to discriminate against his age. There -- I've said it -- he may be considered too old for a whole bunch of options so many well-intentioned advice givers suggest. Truth is, after he's done with whatever initial training, there aren't all that many years left before retirement, and very few employers are going to want to hire him. He wants longevity and security, but can't offer much of either in return. Yeah, yeah, I know he's not old -- and he's not -- but retirement age is 65 and very few professions want workers past that age. He should try, because anything can happen, but the chances of him becoming a working lawyer (and can we say TUITION?!?) are slim. Not only that, but he's worked his ass off and should be able to parlay his experience into come career without switching tracks so drastically.
Music studios? Record companies? Sound engineers for film & TV? Sure, there are technical degrees associated with the jobs, but not all -- experience counts here, if the temperament suits. Changing locations may be necessary, but PM is lucky -- no family, no ties, so moving is possible. He may have to start on an intern level, but he'll make what he makes now and, given his experience, should be able to move up rather quickly.
PM, look into all aspects of the music industry before you press your own CD's. And, with the double degrees, you can teach on any level (very few PhD's in Fine Arts, so the double MA's should do you even on the university level), and should perhaps explore all levels to find one that you like. Geez, but all of these people who lump all teaching together, as if anyone can do it, anytime, for anyone! No wonder teachers are so devalued in this country!! Anyway... I do believe Teach for America is aimed at recent grads, but most states have programs to recruit secondary school teachers with life experience. Community colleges look for adjuncts every summer, and accept applications for their teaching pools all year, so that's a foot in the door and experience for a CV. Then there's the senior college/university route, which your alma mater should be able to help you crack -- call your MA granting institution, get a hold of the career counselor, and shake until something comes out. They get these inquiries all the time, trust me, so start there for both industry and academic career information.
This can be done in a practical and productive manner without resorting to secretarial work or selling cars. What PM does takes a combination of skill, talent, and perserverance -- there are industries who both need and want him, and he won't have to compromise his artistry TOO much.