<p>Penn does not have a conservatory, but Phila. abounds with music of all kinds (Curtis is the most selective conservatory in the US) and it should be easy to find a teacher.</p>
<p>Bass is not actually that rare. If you are really good (national, international recognition) then it could be a hook, otherwise, it is just a good EC. If you are interested in playing in college there should be no problem finding a teacher. There a ton of performance opportunities at Penn as well. PM me if you have any questions about ensembles or anything.</p>
<p>actually, i don't think it matters that you are playing a rare instrument or not (and i think the bass is totally awesome, i play the violin... bleh). I sent in a recording of my piano playing for them and i got accepted. I heard from someone ( a perhaps reliable source) that penn likes artsy people. So if you send in an arts supplement, it definitely can't hurt you. And you're super good, that's definitely a bonus and WILL make you stand out.</p>
<p>I'm a freshman right now, I'm in the Penn Symphony and there is a definite need for basses. The music dept does listen to the arts supplement as far as I know, and i'm sure it'll help.</p>
<p>Honestly, I think you have an incredible chances. My dad, is the conductor in Penn's Symphony and he told me that he is desperate for Korean American, girl, anthropology major, bassists who have a nice booty.
In the 21st century, there is a serious lack of bassists who also have strong academics. In my opinion, YOU'RE IN!!!!</p>