<p>Allmusic, I think you son plays the piano (and other things)? Then expect to memorize ALL his audition repertoire for 99.9% of the music schools out there. I personally thought there is a good reason behind the always "must" for pianists to memorize music (in solo), because it really takes a page-tuner if the music is not memorized, while for most other instruments many pieces can be fitted into one or two pages. I have been memorizing the things I played ever since I was a little child, and fortunately for me, memorization have never been a problem - the music is automatically in my head once I learned the piece. </p>
<p>Historically, piano (or whatever keyboard instrument was prevalent those days) solo music was not expected to be memorized in Mozart and Beethoven's days (of course, they probably would not mind memorizing music). I think once the Romantics started to dominate (especially with virtuosos like Liszt), the trend had changed. Ever since then it seemed to be a stardard practise for concert pianists in solo recitals. I can't recall any pianists using music in his/her recital except S. Richter in his very, very old age. Of course, chamber music is the exception.</p>
<p>On the subject of Rice specifically, my experience with the bassoon professor was that he only accepts students who he feels will meet both the musical AND academic standards at Rice. Assuming that the other teachers do this as well, that would probably give the music school a little clout in accepting students that may not have as great stats as the average Rice student, if that makes sense.</p>
<p>Rice- If you are going for horn, the academic standards are lower. Cello-significantly lower. For voice, not much lower. A caution- the Rice courses will be very difficult if you are not a strong student. You will be in language classes and other non-music classes with very, very good students and a number of music kids really struggle. Also, you will be living with a lot of pre-meds who obsess about their science courses and whether they will get into med school. Just a warning!</p>
<p>Looks like it is very instrument dependent. </p>
<p>Don't assume memorizing will make you play better. It may for some, it will be a negative for others.</p>
<p>Unless you become a soloist, which is almost zero chance in reality, you will be performing as an orchestra musician with the music in front of you. If the great musicians in all the great orchestras of the world thought they played better by memory, there would be no music stands on stage.</p>
<p>Showing one can play from memory is a plus in some peoples minds, no benefit to many others. I agree with the great advice above. Check what the school you are applying to expects. If they dont specify it has to be from memory, your probably best off having the music on the stand in front of you.</p>
<p>Some people memorize well, some do not. There is no relationship between how well you play and how well you memorize. Schools are looking to admit the best player, not the best memorizer.</p>
<p>Great point about being in classes with non music majors that great students looking for top grades. If your not a pretty good student and fairly bright, Rice probably should not be at the top of your list.</p>