<p>I posted this in the Wes forum but it doesn't seem to be getting much traffic so...</p>
<p>I'm a self-taught guitarist and singer. I've written a few songs and I was thinking about sending one in as a supplement when I apply ED to Wesleyan. Is there any way it would be a detrimental factor in admissions? It's a hobby that's definitely a significant part of me, but I haven't won awards and stuff for it. Help please. :)</p>
<p>Thanks in advance!</p>
<p>Only send it if you’re very good. Awards aren’t necessary, but if you believe you’re only, say, “average,” or “decent” in your abilities, you may want to refrain. As it says on the [Wesleyan</a> website](<a href=“http://www.wesleyan.edu/admission/applying/supplemental_materials.html]Wesleyan”>http://www.wesleyan.edu/admission/applying/supplemental_materials.html):</p>
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<p>You may also want to read these threads:</p>
<p><a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/parents-forum/738525-how-strong-music-ec.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/parents-forum/738525-how-strong-music-ec.html</a>
<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-admissions/748773-sending-music-recording-supplement-but-not-majoring-music.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-admissions/748773-sending-music-recording-supplement-but-not-majoring-music.html</a>
<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-admissions/656197-music-supplements-just-q.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-admissions/656197-music-supplements-just-q.html</a>
<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-admissions/604318-how-much-do-performing-arts-supplements-matter.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/college-admissions/604318-how-much-do-performing-arts-supplements-matter.html</a></p>
<p>Thank you very much! I guess I’m having trouble grasping what “average” would be. If anyone would be so kind as to listen to me play and sing online (it’s only a few minutes!) I would really appreciate it, please PM me and I’ll send you the link! Sorry I’m being so annoying haha, I just really don’t wanna mess anything up.</p>
<p>Also, does the genre of music matter if it’s not specified?</p>
<p>paint<em>me</em>purple, there’s a thread on this forum here, <a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/common-application/757435-how-much-will-my-music-ecs-matter-please-help.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/common-application/757435-how-much-will-my-music-ecs-matter-please-help.html</a> that has links in addition to the ones absent posted. </p>
<p>Defining “average” is a common issue, and most parents, guidance counselors, and students themselves have no clue as to how to assess a talent unless exposed to a broad range of experiences. Your high school music department/teachers may or may not be able to help you either.</p>
<p>The links and discussions will provide some insights. </p>
<p>If unspecified, genre may or may be a stumbling block. Knowing the type of focus of the Wesleyan music department, it may be received more favorably there than at some other institutions. Without knowing the parameters of who/how reviews their music supps, I can’t say for sure. </p>
<p>In many cases, a private instructor or feedback from pro, semi pro actively performing musicians can be an indicator of both current talent (and growth potential). </p>
<p>Impact of sending a supp, if any, is highly variable and institution specific.</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>
<p>paint me purple, I would like to listen to your stuff. I’m in the same situation with Stanford’s art supplement.</p>