Below are some answers to frequently-asked questions about majoring in music and earning scholarships.
Majoring or Minoring in Music
Pursuing a college degree in music is both challenging and rewarding! You may choose from areas of emphasis such as Music Performance, Composition, Technology, Education, History, and more.
Admission requirements vary from school to school, but usually include an audition. During the audition, you typically play memorized piano pieces in front of one or more piano faculty. Examples include:
- Bach Prelude & Fugue
- Movement from a Mozart or Beethoven sonata
- Piece by Chopin, Brahms, Rachmaninoff, or Gershwin
The audition may also include scales, arpeggios, and/or sight-reading.
Oftentimes a CD or video recording may be submitted if you are unable to visit the school in person.
Students might audition before being admitted to the college, or they might audition during (or even after) their freshman year.
Music Scholarships
To qualify for a music scholarship you will normally audition in front of one or more piano faculty during a student preview weekend at the college(s) you are considering attending.
The audition may include scales, arpeggios, chord progressions, and memorized repertoire. The admissions department or music department at the college can usually provide a handout in advance that shows you what to prepare for the audition.
College music scholarships may be available even if you don't plan to major in music. For example, you may be able to earn a scholarship in exchange for accompanying college choir practices.
As your teacher, I am delighted to help and support your college goals in any way possible, including audition prep!