Embarking on the path to higher education can feel like stepping onto a stage with an uncertain script—especially for high school students aspiring to pursue music. While seniors may have their college plans tuned to perfection, juniors, sophomores, and freshmen find themselves in a different melody, wondering how to strike the right chord with prospective music departments. Here, we unveil three harmonious strategies to bridge the gap and conduct a symphony of success in the college admission process.

First Interaction: Let them know you're interested

Write a letter to the college, introducing yourself and your interest in their school. Reach out to the director of the ensemble you want to join and the private studio instructor you hope to learn from. Skip the email—go old-school with a handwritten note sent to the school's address.

More Note-Writing Tips:

• For band students, write to the concert band or wind ensemble director, not the marching band.
• If there are multiple instructors for your instrument, choose the one with the most experience.
• Avoid sending the note to the Dean or recruiter—direct contact is key.
• Students, take the lead on writing the letter; parent input is fine, but let it come from you.

The goal? Get a response. If both the studio instructor and ensemble director reply, you've made a solid impression. 

‍Second Interaction: Attend Concerts, Recitals, and Master Classes

Show your genuine interest in joining college music programs by attending their concerts, recitals, and Master Classes. Let them see you there—it's the best way to demonstrate your enthusiasm.

Tips for Making an Impression:

• Send a note a week before the concert to let them know you'll be attending.
• After the event, introduce yourself briefly at the front or backstage. Keep it short and sweet—they've just finished a long performance.
• Follow up with a note that night, expressing your enjoyment and desire to join the ensemble.
• Check if the private instructor has upcoming recitals or Master Classes on the college website. Attend if possible, prioritizing Master Classes to gauge teaching style.
• Be prepared to perform one of your solo compositions at the Master Class.
• If you have to choose between attending the ensemble concert or the private instructor’s event, go for the ensemble concert—deans tend to favor ensemble directors' choices for scholarships.

Investing a bit of time and effort in these actions might appear daunting, but given the steep price of college, it's a wise choice for your future. Remember, these directors and instructors appreciate sincere interest and dedication. So, spending a few hundred dollars to connect with your dream school's decision-makers could yield a significant return in terms of acceptance and scholarships.

‍Third Interaction: Attend Summer Experiences

Expand your engagement by attending summer camps, master classes, or enrichment programs on the college campus or wherever the ensemble director or private instructor is teaching.

Why It Matters:

• Longer exposure allows for deeper connections and understanding of instructional styles.
• These camps typically last a week or two, providing ample time for private lessons with desired instructors.
• All-State training camps can also be beneficial, providing an edge in auditions and catching the attention of college recruiters.

Considerations:

• Some camps last several weeks and require applications and auditions.
• Governor’s School of the Arts sessions and other nationally recognized programs offer exceptional opportunities for collegiate and scholarship prospects.
• Recruiters often scout talent from these camps, and many include college fairs or weekends for interaction between students and institutions.

Attending these summer programs, especially longer ones, can greatly influence recruiters and play a significant role in the selection and scholarship process for potential students. It's a valuable step in solidifying your place in the college music scene.

As you embark on this journey of connecting with prospective music departments, remember that each interaction is a note in your symphony of success. By taking the initiative to express your interest, attending concerts and events, and participating in summer experiences, you're not just building connections—you're composing your future. These efforts may seem small in the grand score of your college application process, but their impact resonates far beyond. They're the harmonies that blend seamlessly to create a melody of opportunity, leading you closer to your dreams of pursuing music at the collegiate level. So, strike the chords of determination, passion, and dedication, and let your melody soar. With each step, you're orchestrating your path to success in the vibrant world of college music departments.

‍

‍

Objective: Demonstrating the ability to write a personal letter or short note of personal introduction.

Assignment: Write a personal letter of introduction to one of the following fictious the collegiate music directors: the Wind Ensemble Director at MSU, Dr. Joe Clarkson; the Director of the Viking Singers at MSU, Ms. Shandra Sanderson; or the Director of the MSU Viking Symphonic Orchestra; Dr. Kim Lee.

‍

• The letter/note should not be more than 250 words
• The letter should have the proper salutation
• The letter should include the writer’s name in the first sentence and the hometown of the writer as well as the school they are attending.
• The letter should include the instrument or voice-part of the writer
• The letter should include only one honor or award of the writer
• The letter should have a closing line of “an ask” coupled with a demonstration of sincere interest.

‍

‍Example:

‍
Dear Dr. Clarkson,

My name is Lester Pruitt, and I’m from Spring, Texas. Currently, I am a junior at Spring High School, where I pursue my passion for music. I am writing to you as a dedicated saxophone player, eager to explore new musical horizons under your guidance.

I was at your Fall Concert last Thursday evening and it was the best wind ensemble concert I’ve ever attended. I especially liked the performance of “Molly on the Shore” by Percy Grainger. It’s left a lasting impression on me.

I am honored to share that I was recently awarded the First Place at our school district’s annual concerto contest. This recognition has fueled my determination to excel further in my musical journey. 

My ultimate goal is to join the prestigious MSU Wind Ensemble under your guidance. Youhave a reputation for nurturing talent and I'm eager to be a part of that environment. While I await that opportunity, I'm curious if there are any summer music enrichment programs you recommend for this summer under your leadership?

I eagerly anticipate the chance to work with you and contribute to the MSU Wind Ensemble's success. If you have any advice to offer as I pursue my dream of attending MSU, I'd be immensely grateful.

Looking Forward to Your Guidance,

Lester Pruitt

‍