<p>The clarification helps. Oberlin has exceptional opportunities in any number of genres, and there is the opportunity to study music within a BA curriculum or minor within the college, not the conservatory. Post to the music major forum, or send a private message to BassDad who has encyclopedic knowledge of all things musically Oberlin.</p>
<p>My “expertise” is classical, bowed strings, chamber, and many aspects of music education. Plenty of people in the music forum with extensive knowledge of the many LAC options, and a few with some of the more eclectic options musically. Most of the traditional programs tend not to focus on contemporary, folk, or indie, but take a look at Belmont just for reference. I don’t know their minor options of the top of my head. As far as Berklee goes, as an audition based admit, my guess is with the level of training and experience you’ve described, you may not be competitive from an audition standpoint. A number of folks with experience and first hand knowledge of Rochester & Eastman.</p>
<p>The CTCL schools (googling the term will get you a list) often seem very good options for the type of academic and music options you’re looking for.</p>
<p>Do some reading, come back with questions and I can point you to some references, potential contacts.</p>
<p>A performance minor is a rare bird. Instrumental instruction/faculty and costs vary widely in many of the BA/minor options, so a deep look at EACH school or department’s policies is a must.</p>