Music programs in French schools?

Question

I have heard that French schools don't often provide music programs as part of the school curriculum. If this is so, what options do young musicians in France have and where can I find more information on this?

Answer 1

I always had music class 2 hours a week. Learned the flute how to play "au claire de la lune" and singing a few folk songs. The teachers main role was to pinpoint students with musical ear, talent or interest and encourage them to go to the conservatoire, then leave the rest of us alone. Music class stopped for me at 14.

The french system tries to see students interest around the age of 10-13, then seperate them into different categories, science, litterature, music, economy... till the age of 16 where we confirm our choice. I Do not know what happens to the groups that go to music though, sorry.

Personally at 13 I chose economy, so i stopped phisics, biology, music, art. Those who choose litterate have to learn 2 extra languages and scrap most their math but keep music and art I think. I guess those who choose music have to learn a few instruments, history of art and song. That would be the logic but I can confirm