<p>I started filling out my applications recently and noticed that there is an optional art supplement on most applications. I was curious as to if it would be worthwhile to take advantage of this. I play the piano, but I've only been playing for about 2 years and I'm self-taught (which I heard somewhere that an instructors recommendation was required). The catch is that I'm far better than you would think based off of this description. I love playing the piano and play every chance I get to so I've gotten to the point where I'm significantly better at playing than people who have taken lessons for years (including my sister who took lessons for at least 5 years). I was initially intending on using my piano skill as an EC on the common app but writing that I'm self taught and have been playing for 2 years is far, far less impressive than if you were to hear me play a piece, so my question is would it be worth it for me to use the art supplement on the application?</p>
<p>No. Unless you’re applying as a music major/minor, it’s not relevant and it’s not really going to improve your application. AdComs read a LOT of applications, and if you waste their time with unnecessary supplements they might not look at your app as favorably.</p>
<p>It would be just fine to just include it as an EC; unless you’re going into music, the AdComs probably don’t care how “impressive” your piano skills are. Besides, unless the admissions officers evaluating your application have extensive musical experience, they aren’t likely to have the expertise to judge your level of technical ability anyway.</p>
<p>I think it depends on the college. At small liberal arts colleges – and some medium sized privates – especially those that have a focus on the arts, music (or art or theater) supplements can be beneficial even if you intend to major in something entirely different. </p>
<p>The supplement will be passed to the respective department for evaluation and a nod from that area may have a positive effect on admissions. Colleges – especially smaller ones – are looking for kids who will contribute to the campus community and that includes music performance. If music is an important part of your life and a key extracurricular for you, then yes, a supplement would be appropriate.</p>
<p>IMO you’d have to be really really good to send something. And unless you want to major in music there isn’t much to be gained.</p>
<p>First, contrary to some comments that there is little value to a supplement if you’re not a music major, that’s really not the case. Colleges are always interested in strong music talent – for their student orchestras, glee clubs, operatic groups etc. Many non-music majors perform in these groups. But you need to be exceptional for the supplement to be of value. Review the requirements for the supplement. They often include formal training, a recommendation from your music teacher(s), and a music resume (which would typically include performances). The supplement itself demands significant effort to prepare,</p>
<p>I have zero real knowledge on this, but my gut is telling me that even if you’re unusually talented for someone with so little training, your supplement is probably not going to look very impressive next to those that will be submitted by students who play at a competitive level. Even if an ad com appreciates the fact that you’ve advanced so quickly in 2 years, when they listen to your clip or your CD it is just not going to stack up.</p>
<p>If you really want to highlight your piano as an EC, maybe consider writing about it in an essay, talking about why you love it so much, what it means to you, etc. But don’t use the essay to talk about how good you are!</p>
<p>@dustypig, has a good point. Your supplement will be evaluated by people who teach music who may not be amused by someone who doesn’t feel that teachers are significant. Maybe it’s time to find an instructor who can take you to the next level.</p>
<p>Thanks for the feedback! I knew nothing about the art supplement but it seems it’s truly just for competitive players. I appreciate the advice!</p>