I want to write about how I perform indian classical singing, which is one of the only forms that rely completely on improvisation- that means I literally make up music on the spot for 30, 45 minute concerts. I want to write about how I’m a perfectionist, but being faced with this art form where I literally can’t prepare, and constantly have to make mistakes, taught me risk-taking & embracing faliure. Is that cliche’?
Not at all; it’s very interesting, @lovescookies !
But why do so many kids worry about “cliche?” The question is, will it show attributes the colleges feel are relevant to the class they want to build, their campus community?
So it sounds like you have the right idea. And it’s unique.
But remember, “Show, not just tell.” How do you use this risk tolerance in other ways, reach out to others, do some good?
Another perspective…I like the idea but I’d skip the "perfectionist"part. I see that “issue” so often and I have a hard time believing it. To me, it seems contrived. “Admit me because I’m a perfect student” Instead I would focus on what you do with your singing, how it moves you, what it has brought to you and made you grow. Maybe you will speak to the perfectionist issue but as more of a hint rather than the entire focus of your piece. Good Luck!
I agree with @lookingforward… don’t worry about cliche, just write YOUR essay. Your own spin on it will make it unique.
And also with @Empireapple … keep the big picture in mind: you want them to want you on campus. The word “perfectionist” sends images of someone who will beat herself up in search of some elusive idea of perfection, not someone easily able to adapt to a new lifestyle at college.
Thank you! all for your advice I’ll remember to show more!
and as for the perfectionist part @Empireapple @bjkmom I think I’d mentioned that I was like that right around when I first started singing and improvising (like around 11,12) because I was that kid who wanted to plan everything and now people told me to just go there and just sing- and how that helped me take risks (and stop being that way?). I didn’t describe myself like that now but I can avoid the topic altogether if it comes accross as contrived, as I don’t want to send that message.
Adcoms know high schoolers struggle with things like perfectionism. (It’s age appropriate to tackle this.) The idea is to show how you got beyond that, grew, and how this then translated to other good things you do. Not just a onesie example of, “…and now I’m more confident in my singing.” So, how did this new ease reflect in other ways? (Ease, not necessarily grand risk-taking.) For your college app, it’s ok to strive, but they want to be able to see you as activated and likely to participate in more than just today’s interests.
Eg, it’s ok to say you were perfectionist, but with more emphasis on who you became. Again, show, not just tell. Adcoms work with what you do write, tend not to read between the lines or assume.
lovescookies it sounds like you were “freed”. That’s really a beautiful and weight lifting thing. I’m sure you will convey that. Good luck! I’m certain any school would be lucky to have you!
Thank you 
Lol. This is kind of what you’re doing now.
Just go and write! Write your essay from your heart…as if you were singing. Then correct the spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Don’t revise it too much before you offer it to people you trust for feedback. You might second guess yourself and edit out something that’s really strong.
If there are parts that come across as contrived or cliche, you or others will notice and you can re-work it.