On The Road

It’s Fall. For admission directors throughout the world, that means a five letter word: TRAVEL. I’ve visited over 30 schools and programs so far and right now I’m in the rainy, windy Seattle – hence no fancy pictures. Although the view from my hotel is fabulous! It’s nighttime and the Space Needle is all lit up! Looks kind of like this.

I wanted to write a few words about my trips and visits to high schools and how they work. If you’re one of the lucky ones, your band/choir/orchestra will host me for a brief talk about our programs here in Eugene. You will also have the opportunity to ask some questions.  (Best question today: “Can I be part of an ensemble without being a music major? – yes and no, depends on the ensemble. Most random question today: “Why the Duck?” – no idea..but will do some research:)

THEN.. the ball is in your court:

Next step: Go to the School of Music and Dance website to read any and all information you can find there, especially under the admissions tab.  Hey! You are already here- you are off to a good start!

Next: Fill out our online interest card

Next: Establish personal contact. Write to music admission staff (yours truly or wonderful Jessica Wilson, my assistant). Send an email to a faculty member who interests you. Here is my tip for the day: music admission staff can generally tell you more about the application process and the school in general. BUT if you want to know the nitty gritty details no one else knows, EMAIL THE FACULTY. Our professors are friendly and responsive. They would love to tell you more about the particular program in which you are interested (e.g. insides of the trumpet studio, alumni success rate of musicology grads, etc.). They can also connect you with current students.

Next: Set up a visit, schedule a lesson. I cannot stress enough how important this step is! There are so many things to do once you are here.  In addition to tours and lessons, there are rehearsals and classes to visit, master classes to sit in on, and concerts to attend. If you cannot visit, make sure you check out the virtual tour of campus and listen in on a performance (which we’ll broadcast live at the end of the month). Some of our faculty use Skype, so if you are really far away, do not hesitate to ask.

Next: Get all your application materials ready. Practice your audition repertoire. Fill out the application. Notify recommenders. Send it all in to us by January 15^th (or January 2^nd,  if you’re a grad student).

Next step: Audition with confidence.

Next step: Relax.

Next step: Decide. Receive audition results and decide where to spend your next four years! J

As it gets closer, I will write more about the decision process and the important things that you should keep in mind when choosing which school is right for you.