<p>When signing up for a college visit over spring break, we were surprised to have the college ask us if D was interested in a music scholarship. D is not interested at all in majoring in music, but wants to continue studying harp during her college years.</p>
<p>Let alone whether she is the caliber of player to receive a scholarship, I'm wondering what the expectations of something like this would be. For instance, would she be expected to perform in the school orchestra? </p>
<p>What kinds of strings (a clever pun) come along with a music scholarship for non-music students?</p>
<p>Thought about that, but thought that they’d have a different perspective. They have kids who are serious about music and who probably want to be in the orchestra, play in ensembles, etc. That’s not our situation!</p>
<p>It will all depend on the particular school. Many programs not drawing their students from the ranks of those whose goals are active performing careers will still offer very reputable programs, ensembles and activities for both serious and avocational/recreational students wishing to maintain or hone their skills.</p>
<p>Many of these scholarships are small, in the 500-2500 dollar range and are made available to students wishing to continue music study in college.</p>
<p>There is normally a participation requirement involved, and can involve a committment to minor in music, play in orchestras or ensembles, etc.</p>
<p>A lot will also depend on the student’s instrument or specific skill, and how it fits in the college’s short term needs.</p>
<p>Specific info is usually detailed on the school’s music department webpages regarding these parameters.</p>
<p>Edit: the music major forum contains a broad spectrum of posters, and many have direct experience with this scenario. There’s also a vast collective knowledge of schools, faculty, programs for those actively seeking professional performing carers as well as for those with more personal enjoyment expectations.</p>
<p>The ones I have seen mostly asked that you “participate fully” in various named orchestras/ensembles/events (although I may have missed a lot of the ones that ask you to minor in music, since I wouldn’t). </p>
<p>It’s worth asking each school to give you an idea of what “participate fully” is actually likely to entail, generally and for harp players in particular - number of hours, weekends, etc, because it does seem to vary, even when the actual scholarship money offered is quite similar. It’s good to know this before you spend a great deal of time applying for the scholarship.</p>
<p>My D has one of these scholarships, and my twins were the recipient of music scholarships at another school that they didn’t choose. They are not interested in anything but continuing to play! No theory, no appreciation classes, etc. The scholarship we are working with now is well worthwhile, renewable every year, and requires ensemble participation. We pay a little extra for lessons, but have been doing that since age 4 regardless, and is far cheaper than HS lessons with a good teacher. The school will still pay the scholarship during a semester abroad, which was a relief to hear. </p>
<p>Now it does make the college application process more frenzied. Some schools required CDs, so we had to line up accompanists and recording equipment. I was glad to have saved every program from concerts, as there were questions as to pieces played. We had to time travel to colleges for audition weekends. Now that I think about it, am SO glad it was not this current winter. My sympathies to those who are doing so!</p>
<p>My impression is that many LAC want to maintain music programs, and need to attract non majors to flesh out orchestras and quartets. My violist is working hard, and amassing numerous credits, as there really is a viola shortage at her school. Chamber orchestra, symphony and two quartets this semester, though I’d think this would be rare. </p>
<p>Chi…my daughter is NOT a music major at her college. She has received a small performance scholarship each term. The only requirement is that she perform in good standing in the orchestra (which was a top criteria for her in college anyway). She also takes instrument lessons at no charge to her. You can PM me for more information.</p>
<p>My D has decided, after a year of (agonizing) decisionmaking, not to major in performance, but the opportunity to play and perhaps continue to study were important criteria for her. She did submit a CD supplement w/all her applications. All of her schools offer great performance possibilities, and at least one offers free lessons to players who participate in the orchestra (which comes with class credit). This is not exactly a scholarship but a different kind of perk nonetheless.</p>