A Comprehensive Guide to Applying and Auditioning for Music Colleges and Conservatories
Choosing the perfect music program or conservatory is a monumental decision that can shape your future in the world of music. These institutions offer top-notch education, invaluable connections, and a pathway to success in your musical career. However, it all starts with acing the application and audition process. Although applying and auditioning may be daunting, we'll be your compass in this blog post, guiding you through this exciting journey. Get ready to unlock valuable insights and tips to skyrocket your chances of success!
Before you embark on this thrilling audition adventure, let's make sure you find the right institutions that resonate with you and your musical dreams. Consider the following points:
Understanding the Different Types of Music Institutions
Conservatories and universities with music programs both offer opportunities for musical education, but they have distinct differences.
Conservatories are specialized institutions solely focused on music and performing arts. They provide an environment where students can fully immerse themselves in their musical studies. Conservatories offer rigorous and intensive training, emphasizing performance and individual artistic development.
On the other hand, universities with music programs provide a more comprehensive educational experience that combines music studies with a broader academic curriculum. In addition to music courses, students can explore other academic disciplines, allowing for a well-rounded education. Universities often offer a wider range of degree options and interdisciplinary opportunities, enabling students to pursue diverse interests alongside their musical studies. Ultimately, the choice between a conservatory and a university with a music program depends on your own goals, preferences, and desired balance between specialization and breadth of education.
Researching and Evaluating Programs
Immerse yourself in the details of various music programs. Dig into factors like faculty expertise, curriculum, performance opportunities, facilities, and the accomplishments of alumni. Online resources, school websites, music education publications, and chatting with current students or alumni will be your best friends here.
Deciding on Your Private Teacher
Picking the right private teacher can have a massive impact on your musical journey and career path so this should be your highest priority when deciding where to apply. Look for a teacher with solid experience in your instrument or area of interest. Someone who's been there, done that, and can guide you towards mastering the skills you're aiming for. A great teacher also has a network that can open doors for you. Think about the potential connections to other professionals, performance opportunities, and career possibilities. Seek out a teacher who can offer diverse opportunities like competitions, masterclasses, and ensemble performances to broaden your musical potential. Most importantly, personality fit matters too. Find a teacher who inspires and connects with you on a personal level. This will be your primary mentor over the next several years and when the two of you click, magic happens.
To find out if a teacher will be a good fit, try to arrange a meeting or lesson with them before your audition. If you decide to meet them in person at their school, it’ll also give you the chance to tour the school and see if you can envision yourself there.
Reviewing Application Requirements
Reviewing application requirements is a crucial step in the process of applying to music programs and conservatories. The application requirements vary from school to school, but typically, application requirements include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, essays, and a professional resume detailing your musical experiences. It is important to review the application guidelines thoroughly, paying attention to any additional materials that may be requested, such as recordings or portfolios.
Prescreening Recordings
Most programs require prescreening recordings as part of the initial application, and this is your chance to shine and showcase your musical talents right from the start. Prescreening requirements vary depending on the program, instrument, and degree you’re applying for so be sure to review the requirements carefully. Remember, this is your time to impress the admissions committee with your musical abilities. Take the guidelines seriously and make sure your recordings are top-notch, capturing your unique musicality and skills. The prescreening process is your opportunity to stand out and secure your place in the live audition round. Embrace it with confidence, passion, and the belief that your musical talent will shine through.
Once your application and prescreening recordings have been submitted, schools will typically notify you within the next few months if you’ve been invited for a live audition. To make a lasting impression during your audition, meticulous preparation is key. Here's how you can approach it effectively:
UNDERSTANDING THE AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
Every institution has its own unique set of audition requirements. Get familiar with these criteria and carefully review the guidelines provided by each school to ensure you cover all the necessary components. Many schools have the same requirements for prescreening and audition repertoire so you’ll likely be able to perform the same pieces you sent in your application. As always, be sure to check the requirements as this may not be the case for some programs.
Selecting and Preparing Audition Repertoire
Choose audition repertoire that showcases your strengths, highlights your technical abilities, and brings out your musicality. Seek guidance from your teachers or coaches to pick suitable pieces and rehearse them thoroughly. Practice smart, seek out feedback from different musicians and mentors, refine your performances, and perform and record your program as much as you can.
To deliver an unforgettable audition performance, focus on the following aspects:
Building Confidence and Managing Nerves
Don't worry, audition jitters are totally normal! But you can conquer them. Thorough preparation, mental techniques like visualization, positive self-talk, and participating in mock auditions will help build your confidence and keep those nerves in check.
Be Ready to Stop and Go
There are several different ways your audition can be structured. The panel may let you decide the order of your pieces or they may dedicate the order themselves. In your mock auditions, practice some of these potential scenarios:
Start a piece of your choosing and have your mock panel randomly stop you and request another piece in your program.
Practice your program all the way through in your preferred order.
Practice your program all the way through in a random order.
Be prepared to start at different notable moments in a given piece. The jury panel may request specific parts aside from the beginning.
Plan out “safety nets” in each piece so you have a place to jump to if you get lost.
Technical and Musical Presentation
Pay attention to technical accuracy, interpretation, stage presence, and effective communication with the audition panel. Present a polished and professional audition that reflects your skills and artistic sensibility. Be sure to dress professionally but also stand out. Memorable first impressions can go a long way when the panel decides who will be accepted after auditions.
The audition process goes beyond just the performance itself so here’s some things to consider:
Preparing for Interviews and Written Essays
Some institutions may require interviews or written essays. Research the school, reflect on your goals, and be prepared to articulate your passion for music, personal aspirations, and dedication to your craft. Here’s some examples of some essay prompts:
The Juilliard School - Undergraduate Degree Application: Please write about why you have chosen to become a musician and what motivates you to continue to pursue music at the collegiate/professional level. Please also elaborate specifically on why you are applying to Juilliard, and how conservatory training will support your future goals.
1. Why do you want to study at Curtis? (150 words)
2. What inspires you as an artist? (250 words)
3. Please tell us how you managed a challenging experience. What did you learn, and how might your experience inform your participation in the Curtis community? (300 words)
4. Your application details your accomplishments as a musician. In this space, please tell us about a special interest outside of music that gives you joy. (250 words)
New England Conservatory - Undergraduate First-Year Application:
1. How do you think public engagement with live music will change in the next ten years?
2. What are some small things that make your day better?
Cleveland Institute of Music - All Applications: What do you like about your current level of performance/composition? What needs improvement? What are your career goals and how will CIM help you attain them?
And here’s an example of some live interview topics from Berklee College of Music:
How have you prepared for Berklee?
What are your professional/career goals?
Why do you want to study at Berklee?
How will you contribute to our diverse community?
Why is being a part of an inclusive environment important to you?
Seeking Financial Aid and Scholarships
Everyone knows attending any college can be expensive. Luckily, when it comes to funding your music education, there are many financial aid options and scholarships. Take the time to dig into these opportunities and see how they can help support your musical journey. Make sure to keep track of the deadlines as these tend to be different than the application deadlines and gather all the required documents you'll need. If you have any questions or need guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to the friendly folks at the financial aid office. They're there to help you navigate the process and make the most of the financial resources available.
Be sure to look into academic scholarships as well. Some schools will even award these automatically if you come in with good grades from high school and maintain them throughout college.
Once you've completed the auditions, acceptance offers will start rolling in throughout the spring season then it’s time to start making some decisions:
Evaluating Acceptance Offers
Consider faculty expertise, curriculum, financial aid/scholarship opportunities, location, performance opportunities, and how well they align with your goals. If you have the opportunity to meet your potential private professor and tour the campus, be sure to do so before making your decision. If this is out of reach, try to attend some virtual information sessions or reach out to alumni to get an insider’s perspective.
Preparing for Transition and Enrollment
Once you've made your decision, get ready to transition into music school life. Start by considering the logistics of your transition, such as arranging transportation to the school and organizing your belongings. Explore housing options, whether it's on-campus dormitories, off-campus apartments, or shared accommodations. Familiarize yourself with orientation programs offered by the school, as they provide valuable information, campus tours, and opportunities to connect with fellow students. Additionally, take the time to understand the academic expectations and requirements of your chosen institution. This may involve reviewing course catalogs, understanding degree requirements, and exploring the available resources for academic support. Lastly, embrace the myriad of resources and opportunities available at your music school. Engage in extracurricular activities, attend performances, join ensembles, and make connections with faculty and fellow students. By immersing yourself fully in the vibrant music college community, you'll maximize your growth and create an enriching experience throughout your musical education.
Congratulations, you're one step closer to realizing your musical aspirations! Remember, thorough research, diligent preparation, and maintaining a growth mindset throughout the process are key. Embrace this audition journey as an opportunity for personal growth and development as a musician regardless of the outcome. With your passion, dedication, and commitment to your artistic goals, you're bound to navigate the audition process successfully and embark on an incredibly enriching musical education. The stage is set for your musical journey!