<p>There’s a similar question to your’s here <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/music-major/294700-all-state-chorus-how-important.html?highlight=all+state[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/music-major/294700-all-state-chorus-how-important.html?highlight=all+state</a></p>
<p>There are a number of variables at play. There are no national standards for a selection process. Some states limit participation to public schools, some are open to all if the teacher holds specific professional association membership(s). Many studying privately or those that are homeschooled do not often participate.</p>
<p>In the case of instrumentalists, there are a number of students who are pursuing music studies at such a high level that all-state is considered a diversion, a waste of time, or simply playing to a lower level. I’d imagine this would also apply to vocalists.</p>
<p>Some selections are political; adjudication can vary greatly, some programs mandate “x” number from each geographic region, regardless of score.</p>
<p>It is one measure of relative talent across a peer base, but by no means a hard indicator of ability or potential. It’s one data point. Stronger ones would be participation in high level audition based summer programs, festivals, local/regional competition placements.</p>