FAQS for Music Admissions and Scholarships

How important is the quality of the recording?

The quality of the recording is often a factor in selection of finalists. Make sure the recording is such that your performance can be clearly evaluated. It is in the student’s best interest to present his or her instrument or voice as naturally as possible.

How do I make a recording?

Most students do not have access to high-end recording facilities, and there are no guarantees that a costly recording will result in a scholarship. There are a number of excellent-quality digital recorders available.  You can also check with your teachers, schools, local churches, or universities to see if they have recording equipment available. Make sure the microphone is placed so YOU can be clearly heard. We recommend you have a teacher or other informed musician listen to the recording to make sure that it is a good representation of your abilities.

May I edit my recording?

The recording may be stopped between selections, but editing or any digital manipulation (such as splicing different takes or adding reverb) within individual pieces is not acceptable.

What recording format should I use?

You should use the highest-quality recording you can.  Each file you upload can be up to 256 MB.

What should I include on my music résumé?

The music dropbox will have a resume template which you can fill out, or you can create and upload your own document (such as a Word or PDF document) to the dropbox.  You should include the following information:

• Your private study for the past three years and principal and secondary instruments — include teachers’ names, dates of study, and repertoire studied and performed

• Large ensemble experiences in the past four years—include school, church, community and regional ensembles, and names of the conductors

• Chamber music experience and repertoire performed

• Musical honors or awards (including all-state ensembles, adjudicated contests, etc.)

• Other information that you feel is relevant to your application

Most students arrange information either chronologically or by subject. Your high school experiences are the most relevant.

 Do I need a pianist on my audition recording?

Singers should have a pianist unless they are performing a piece intended for unaccompanied solo voice. Instrumentalists are not required to have a pianist, but a well-prepared pianist can be a positive addition to your recording. Instrumentalists will not be marked down for playing without accompaniment.

 Is there a form for the teacher recommendation? May my teacher send the recommendation separately?

You will give us their email address(es) and we will send them a link to complete the recommendation online or upload their own letter.  If they choose to mail a hard copy of the letter we will scan it and upload it to your digital application file for review by the music faculty.                                                        

How many scholarships are awarded?

Last year we received just over 500 recordings, and awarded approximately 55 (each) of the Christiansen and Cassler scholarships. The awards are distributed across vocal and instrumental, and vary somewhat each year, depending on the applicant pool and the needs within the department.

 How many music majors apply and are admitted?

Our target number is 76 first-year music majors. We generally receive about 360 music major applications, approximately 140 of whom are admitted to one of the music majors.  Admission to the BM Performance major is more competitive than admission to the BA music major.