<p>My son is searching for a music college that has a contemporary music program. He wants to play other genres just to be a better overall musician but the contemporary music scene fits who he is and where he wants to go. In addition to performance, he would like to get a well rounded education in the music industry such as the audio engineering and/or the production side of things. He realizes that just performing will not earn him much money when he finishes college and wants to have a broader range of knowlegde. Of course, Berklee is on top of his list but I'm trying to get him to apply to others and not put his hopes on one school. I don't think he would be accepted into a University with a music program because his SAT scores are not good. He was always strong musically talented kid who always good at math but his writing is the most challenging for him. I have read Berklee's academics are pretty weak but not sure if that is true. Are there any other non profit, non University type of schools similar to Berklee? I appreciate any advise. Thanks.</p>
<p>Hi! I have heard good things about Belmont (Nashville) for contemporary music and they seem to have music industry options as well. Temple has a 5-year music technology/performance degree.
As for SAT scores, my son had the same problem and concentrated on the ACT test. He spent hours taking practice tests and found them much easier than the SAT. He was able to get an acceptable score. The ACT has four sections: Science, Math, Reading, and English. I think all colleges accept ACT scores OR SAT scores.</p>
<p>Belmont’s academic requirements are high for incoming freshmen. My S was waitlisted with a 3.2 GPA and a 32 ACT. He has gotten scholarships from the other schools he has been accepted to.</p>
<p>Check out CalArts.</p>
<p>Does anyone know any personal experiences with McNally Smith? I know it’s a profit college but we made need to consider it. He wants his degree so it might be something to check out. I’ve heard they have currently made some positive changes. Looked at MI and son wasn’t too impressed. That is definitely one school that takes anyone and everyone and that aspect turned my son completely off.</p>
<p>What about Uarts in Philly or Columbia in Chicago?</p>
<p>Thanks. I didn’t know about them. We will check it out.</p>