<p>Gap year can be used most productively. Like you mentioned learning a musical instrument and freelancing. So that would also make for a good essay if you really follow your passion. </p>
<p>Something else you could do is Intern at some place related to academics that you wish to pursue in college.</p>
<p>And get a great SAT score along with solid Class 12 GPA, because that is one of the first filters for your college applications.</p>
<p>Read and research as much as you can about the colleges that you would like to apply to.</p>
<p>And I think you would be an equally competitive candidate for the Class of 2015, regardless of the gap year.</p>