CoPA Double Major on Balancing Pursuit of Music with Academics Senior Tim Healy, studying Trumpet Performance and Mathematics, gave us some insight into his day-to-day life, as well as advice for prospective students considering multiple disciplines.

May 13, 2026

Tim Healy

We got to ask current senior Tim Healy (BM Trumpet Performance, BS Mathematics) about how he balances his academics and musical interests. As a double major at Chapman, he provides a unique perspective on what it’s like to pursue creative and analytical passions at the same time.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

CoPA: Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Tim Healy: I am a senior double majoring in Trumpet Performance and Mathematics. I’m from Mission Viejo, CA, and I’ve been playing trumpet since fifth grade. At Chapman, I’ve played in orchestra, wind symphony, brass quintet, trumpet ensemble, and big band. I am also one of the music librarians for the wind symphony.

What made you decide to pursue a double major at Chapman, and what is your favorite aspect of studying music and another subject?

I’ve basically always wanted to double major. Music has always been a big part of who I am, but so has curiosity and problem solving. Being able to maintain and grow both sides of me has been extremely rewarding. Frankly, I would not have been happy if I had to put one aside. I did not know initially that math would be my second major, but once I started and got into it, I did not look back.

What does a typical day/week look like for you, balancing Trumpet Performance with Mathematics?

I am on campus all day during the week, and I usually start the day with practice if I don’t have a class in the morning. Between classes I’ll work in studying and homework where I can. I have rehearsals every night, alternating between wind symphony and orchestra, with other rehearsals sprinkled in during the day.

Could you tell us about how you balance practice time, rehearsals, and coursework? How do you stay organized?

I am extremely routine oriented. For each day of the week, I follow pretty much the same routine, with time outside class and rehearsal set aside for practicing and studying. This also includes consistent meal times, which is an extremely important part because trying to do everything while hungry is just a fast track to frustration. I have some flexibility within this when there’s something specific I need to give extra attention, like preparing for my senior recital.

Have your two majors influenced each other in any surprising or beneficial ways?

One good thing is that if I feel overwhelmed with one of my majors, I can shift gears and work on the other for a while. This helps me stay balanced and keep my stress from shooting through the roof. I can come back to the other one later with a fresh perspective.

Would you recommend double majoring in the performing arts and another subject at Chapman? What advice would you give them for success?

I would recommend it for those that have a strong interest in another subject. If your heart’s not in it, it’ll burn you out. You just have to make sure that you genuinely enjoy both majors. You should also have things planned out so you can be sure you’ll graduate on time, and you know how the two schedules will fit together.