i play by my self most of the time.There are times I get to play with my other half or roommate.What school combo's work best for this.None of us are to much into healing.Found that out from our previous MMORPG.
As far as soloing goes, I have a Myth GM that I had some troubles with at time, but I think it may have been lack of knowing how to play as he was my first wizard. I have a Ice Wizard closing on on level 40 that I haven;t had much problem soloing with. I know you said you didn't want to use life, but I am also working on a Life Wizard and have had no problems so far going solo. I did Sunken City 100% solo at level 30. He has really been the easiest of the 3 to solo with for me.