Music Supplements (Just a Q)

Applying to College
1

<p>Yes, yes, I know there has been a lot of topics like this. Believe me, I think I read most of them to which violadad directed to. :D</p>

<p>I know that if you're not professional or exceptionally good at it, the supplement is best not to be handed in because there are a lot of exceptionally talented musicians. But just like some users said, music also plays a major role in my life. I was taught piano for 3 years, and after that I continued to play the piano without having a teacher nearby. I don't know if that's considered self-taught because I've been playing piano by myself for about 5 years already without a teacher... haha, well maybe it doesn't count. XD lol. I'm confident in my skills but I'm sure there are bound to be musicians that are much better than me, but I've decided to take the risk. ^^</p>

<p>So I really want to show the adcoms that music does play a major part in my life, but I remember reading from violadad's post that it's better to play a piece that you can nail down instead of having difficulty playing. I really want to play songs that I feel passionate about and those are songs that are not considered classical like Chopin, Mendelssohn, Erik Satie, etc. </p>

<p>My questions are:</p>

<p>1) Is it appropriate of me to play a song by a Korean composer? It's absolutely beautiful but it's not in terms of classical or 20th century. The composer is still alive and kicking. I don't think any of the adcoms would know the song or even heard of the composer. </p>

<p>2) Same question above, but different song. Is it appropriate of me to play a song that came from a CD? Ex: Tears from DayDream. Not popular, but absolutely stunning music. I don't think the adcoms would know the song or even heard of it... Is songs from cartoons or Korean/Japanese dramas aloud? Or are the adcoms strict on hearing classical songs or Sonata, Romantic works by Liszt, etc? </p>

<p>Thanks!</p>

2

<p>eternaltorture, if you’re going to quote me, please don’t do it out of context. May I ask if you plan on being a journalist? ;)</p>

<p>Now, kidding aside, I’ll try and give you some direction.</p>

<p>It is better to play a piece you can master, than to struggle through a more difficult piece beyond your level of talent or training. I’ve also stated that the requirements for supplement submission very considerably and are school specific. Each sets its own parameters as to what they consider. These guidelines can run anywhere from very specific repertoire to nebulously gray guidelines. And not all programs want or will accept supplements.</p>

<p>In general, it’s best to follow stated guidelines in terms of suggested repertoire, length, submission media, labeling, deadline and addressing instructions. Deviation can result in supps being ignored, lost, unusable, or tagged as “applicant cannot follow instructions”</p>

<p>If the repertoire guidelines are specific or suggested, the composers or periods they represent are indicators of the level of technique, musicality, intonation, proficiency (or artistry) of the musician playing. These pieces represent the commonality of thought, training, and experience of the majority of musicians. Often they will ask for two pieces of contrasting styles or periods, or a fast and slow movement of the same piece, because this can easily showcase specific talent or identify specific weakness. It’s a common benchmark, similar to standardized tests in comparing skill sets.</p>

<p>If the parameters give you free reign, it’s really a judgment call. An obscure piece, a new piece, a cutting edge work, a mainstream popular selection, an ethnic piece (particularly on an ethic instrument) may or may not serve your purpose. If you’re doing something specific and “outside the box”, my take is that the reasons should have/could have been addressed in a supplemental essay if possible, written to expand the importance of music to you. Referencing the pieces you intend to play and why on the supp could have helped clarify why you chose those selections. </p>

<p>When in doubt, call/email the school, and speak to a knowledgeable administrator for specific guidelines. For something new, or out of the ordinary, they may want a score as well. Most will have an adcom assigned for music and this will probably be your best bet. The clerk answering the phone will not have a clue.</p>

<p>I understand your passion, and your reasoning. Realistically, it’s most likely not going to sway an admissions decision one way or another. It may be one more data point.</p>

<p>Good luck.</p>