Arts Supplement on Common app?

<p>Hi, I am a senior from Alaska applying to Rochester.</p>

<p>For my Common Application, I have a choice to include an Arts Supplement.</p>

<p>Who has done this? I have a pretty good letter of recommendation from my music teacher, mainly because I have been accompanying the school choir and jazz band on the piano since my sophomore year. I also play guitar/ sing, but I don't really have any awards/ honors. I have competed at State Solo & Ensemble for singing and won the school's Homecoming guitar off, but haven't competed in anything serious. </p>

<p>And for the video upload, could I just record myself singing a couple of pop songs and playing along on the piano/guitar and put it on say, youtube, and give them the web address? I wouldn't really have time to learn something completely new and master it in time, since it's due like the 1st of january, and I don't know any classical pieces that I can whip up in time.</p>

<p>Thank you.</p>

<p>I can’t speak for Rochester but I am familiar with the music arts supplement process for a handful of colleges. While the details vary an effective supplement often requires a semi-professional recording that demonstrates the depth and breadth of the musician, a resume focusing on training, preparation and performance history, and, occasionally a letter of reference from a music teacher who knows the musician well.</p>

<p>thank you fogcity. So should I do the arts supplement with a couple of pop songs? Could it backfire and harm my chances in any way?</p>

<p>I don’t expect that it would backfire. However it is unlikely to help. A bit of extra effort could make a significant difference in your application. Review the Univ. of Rochester advice/guidelines regarding preparation and submission of music/vocal supplements and to the extent that the guidelines are specific follow them.</p>