<p>Hello! I just joined College Confidential - I'm a senior in high school. I will major in piano performance and, if things work out, hope to become a concert pianist. All of my auditions are finished and thus far I have received acceptance letters to my top two schools: University of Oregon and Indiana University. Most people would obviously pick IU, but I know the teacher at UO is absolutely fantastic - Dr. Dean Kramer - and he was my piano teacher's teacher. IU is far better regarding the music school, university, financial aid, campus, and facilities, BUT I don't know the teacher I would study with - Dr. Karen Shaw - that well (my lesson with her was great, and she has very good students, some of which have been finalists in the Van Cliburn competition! however I only met with her once...). For me, the teacher I study with will be extremely important. Any thoughts?</p>
<p>Anyone who is having trouble deciding between colleges can feel free to post here :)</p>
<p>I went through a similar process, I am majoring in voice though. (Tenor) As a developing male voice proper training is vital to development thus finding the right teachers was of utmost importance. Like you I plan to make a career out of the performance of music.</p>
<p>I spoke with alumni (Music Majors) of my top schools regarding the program and where their classmates are now etc. Finally, like you I spoke with had voice lessons with teachers at the respective schools.</p>
<p>In my belief the quality of those who you will study under is more important than the reputation of a program as a whole (as a developing musician.) You noted though: Indiana would provide more financial aid, a 'better' education, and the campus/facilities would be superior as well. That seems like a lot to give up!</p>
<p>If you have the luxury: ask for another lesson with Dr. Shaw, speak with her students. What they have to say may help you decide.</p>
<p>For many, the private teacher is the deciding factor, even at the expense of a "known big-name program". The instructor is key, but ratio of grads to undergrads, performance/gigging opportunities, peer quality across all instruments, as well as financial and "ambiance" considerations all need to be weighed. </p>
<p>The key is trying to determine the mix, and weighing the pros and cons against YOUR needs.</p>
<p>How long have you been with your current teacher? If it has been a while and Dr. Kramer has a similar approach, then maybe it would be good to consider something entirely new.</p>
<p>Don't know if this helps, but my S chose a name program over teachers he knew. For whatever reason, he was never able to get a trial lesson with the teacher he ended up studying with. He gathered as much info as he could -- and not all of it was positive. Someone, in fact, told him that his teacher would be a poor fit for him. But others felt strongly that it was the place to be. Coupled with the name program, name teacher, stellar reputation, and biggest financial award, he decided that was where he was supposed to be. It ended up being a perfect fit for him.</p>
<p>Does your current teacher have an opinion one way or the other? Bassdad has a good point about benefiting from different styles. I also have to say, unfair as it might be, that school-name recognition does play a part - especially, I think, for those pursuing solo careers. For the rest of your life, there will be people judging you based on what school is listed on your resume.</p>
<p>Whichever way you go, write down your reasons and save your paper. When/if you later start second-guessing your choice, it might help to be reminded of why you went there.</p>
<p>My son is at IU on violin. He absolutely loves it. I think he really appreciates the fact that he can see where he is going by watching those more experienced (graduate and undergraduate) taking on challenges for which he is not yet ready, but also gives him a sense that he can get there.</p>
<p>He has a close friend studying with Dr. Shaw who loves her. I will ask him for detail and post a PM to you today or tomorrow.</p>
<p>Another consideration will be the overall quality of the other musicians (the students that is). My guess is that the peer group at Indiana will be more satisfying in the long run, and help push you to maximize your talents.</p>