<p>I have a piano-playing son who is currently a sophomore in high school, and I would like him to explore some summer program options. He has never done a music summer program before, and I think it would be a good opportunity for him to see what it is like to be immersed in music. Is Eastman super competitive to get into for piano? I am having a hard time understanding some info. on their website. It appears that applications are not offered/accepted until January? When is one notified about acceptance?</p>
<p>Are there any other summer programs you would suggest for piano? </p>
<p>Thanks in advance for any wisdom you can share!</p>
<p>Last year my daughter was where your son is; she had never had done a serious summer program before, and it was summer between sophomore and junior years.
She reports that it was not super competitive to get into – but I imagine that varies year to year. I think they are interested in seeing students who are serious about music, more than anything.
The admissions are rolling – expect to hear about 2 weeks after you send in the application. My daughter really enjoyed the experience!</p>
<p>My D was there last year for flute. The instrumentalists seemed to be of varying abilities, but most were really good. I’m not sure about the pianists - I only saw them when they accompanied other students in a performance and a couple in one of the final concerts. My impression is the same as lastbird’s that they look for students who are really serious about music. </p>
<p>According to my D, all of the piano students were required to accompany at least one instrumentalist or vocalist and all students participated in the choir.</p>
<p>Lastbird, does your daughter plan to return this summer? Did her experience solidify what she wants to do with her music in college?</p>
<p>Mater, thanks for the info. I think the accompanying requirement is a good thing! My ds plays with his school choir (pretty small as it is a pretty small school), but has not worked with soloists, so it would be a good experience for him. </p>
<p>A follow up for both of you, please. When you say, “serious about music,” how do you think that is determined? Do they write essays? There is no application up until January 2012. Or do you think that is determined by the level of music that is played on their audition CDs/DVDs?</p>
<p>Thanks, again.</p>
<p>ETA: I know it’s “Mater” for “Mother,” but I am from the South, so my first thought was “'mater,” as in short for “tomato.” Silly, I know!</p>
<p>I think my daughter wants to try a different program/s this summer, although she loved Eastman Music Horizons. Your son will have as many chances as he likes to accompany other students; all pianists take an accompanying class from a really good teacher. Definitely suggest to him that he work on his sight-reading!</p>
<p>My son attended last year. I don’t recall an essay as part of the application. I believe you will need to submit a music resume and a letter of rec. along with the recorded audition.</p>
I attended last year as a Vocalist and we got to work with the pianists. I would say it is not that competitive but the teachers are still very good and no matter what level one is at there is always room to grow weather it be technically or creatively… If anyone has any questions about the program feel free to PM me!
My daughter attended last year as well. I recall there only being 4 flutes total, but I don’t know how many applicants they had. I don’t recall any essay required for the application. Just a recording, resume and letter of recommendation. Definitely well worth the money and time! In 3 weeks they took her from being a flute player to a musician!
Silly, I know!</p>