5 Famous People Who Studied Music

From politicians to actors to scientists, countless well-known people started out studying music before pursuing other careers. Music shaped many celebrities’ lives, taught them important lessons about discipline and focus, and carried them through tough times. Read on to discover 5 famous people who studied music before their other great accomplishments: Albert Einstein

Though many people think of Einstein as a very linear, scientific thinker, the world-renowned genius and inventor also had a musical side. Einstein studied and played violin throughout his life and greatly valued a connection to music. “Life without playing music is inconceivable for me,” he stated once. He maintained throughout his life that he would have sought a career in music if his drive to science had not been so strong. Music was a vital part of Einstein’s life and career. He utilized music to help him think through science and ready his mind for projects. Bill Clinton

Before he entered the political spectrum, President Bill Clinton studied saxophone in high school. He became quite the talented saxophonist for his school band. Clinton has maintained his love of the saxophone throughout his life, playing publicly during his presidential campaign. He was even presented with a limited-edition presidential model saxophone by the L.A. Sax Company of Barrington, Illinois in 1994. The saxophone is an iconic part of Clinton’s life. Many people even believe that his televised performances during the 1992 presidential campaign helped portray him as a relatable figure and contributed to his victory.

John Glenn

John Glenn is most well known for his career as an astronaut and subsequent political stint. What most people don’t know is that before he soared to the moon, John Glenn learned to play the trumpet. Glenn’s father was a military bugler who passed his musical talents on to his son. When he was only nine years old he joined the town band, and later performed with his father at festivals honoring local veterans. The musical connection to his father and the military shaped Glenn’s life and instilled a sense of honor and respect that he carried with him into his service as an astronaut and later as a senator.

Condoleezza Rice

Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice did not always picture herself in the White House. Rice studied piano from age 3 and dreamt of pursuing a music career. When she was only 15 she won a competition and performed with the Denver Symphony Orchestra. Though Rice eventually left her musical pursuits in favor of international relations, she never stopped playing. She continues to play piano frequently and music remains an important part of her life. Her work ethic as a musician lent itself smoothly to the rest of her career. Trey Parker

Writer, actor, director, and co-creator of South Park and The Book of Mormon, Trey Parker studied music at both Berklee College of Music and later the University of Colorado. Parker utilized his musical background to launch his career in entertainment, incorporating his studies into his shows. He gained widespread notoriety for Broadway musical The Book of Mormon, which won a Grammy and a number of Tony awards, and gained a loyal cult following. Interested in Music Lessons?

Just as these celebrities used their musical background to grow in their lives and professions, anyone can benefit from studying music. If you have considered taking up a musical pursuit, the Masters of Music Institute would love to share musical love and learning with you. Our popular programs, including piano, violin, guitar, voice, and more, have provided countless children, teens, and adults with important life skills such as confidence, focus, and determination. For more information about our music education programs or to enroll in a complimentary trial lesson, feel free to contact us today. Our goal is to enrich the lives of our community and we would be happy to help you with your musical ambitions.