ABSTRACT
Musical development is arguably a life-long process; therefore, the developmental psychology of musical abilities and careers needs a perspective which covers the whole life-span. The Alumni Project started from two different angles: first was concerned with the developmental aspects of musical careers. The other starting point of the Alumni Project was the observation that only a few graduates manage to make a smooth transition from being students at a music academy to establishing their professional lives. Some European countries have initiated a number of interesting and important projects to investigate the changing job market for musicians, and to improve the training at the music academies. In addition to the labour market, success in a musical career has to do not only with the degree of someone's musical qualification, but also with extraneous and personality-related aspects. Physical properties like health and good looks can obviously not – or only to a minimal degree – be influenced through training.
