<p>We're narrowing down possible choices for my D--voice performance and/or music ed, and we're noticing that some really good programs are not mentioned in the Petersons guide to performing arts colleges. Specifically, UCLA is not mentioned at all. Cal State Fullerton is merely listed, but no info. Also, many liberal arts colleges that have what I thought were good programs are not listed. Does it make any difference? Also, other programs that I think of as mediocre at best, have extensive info. I'm thinking the guide is more useful for the advice it gives regarding preparing/auditions etc., but that inclusion or not is meaningless? Comments?</p>
<p>As a general reference, the guide is “ok”. Some of the background, “how to” info is fine.</p>
<p>It’s a place to begin looking, nothing more. The absence of a program or lack of descriptive detail is not a reason to exclude a prospective institution.</p>
<p>Agreed.</p>
<p>I wouldn’t scratch names off the list just because they’re not in Peterson’s, because there could be a great teacher there for your daughter. There are lots of great music programs in the US, and while some have big names and prestige, there are a lot of great programs that no one has ever heard of.</p>
<p>When I was trying to come up with a list of schools to apply to, I skimmed the Music Major forum and wrote down basically every music school I saw, including the ones I had never heard of. Then, whenever I was bored (or feeling motivated), I went school by school, eliminating the ones that did not meet my requirements. I’m sure any of next year’s voice majors (including me!) would be thrilled to give you a list of where/why they applied. Message me! :)</p>
<p>I concur. CC is 10x more useful than any guidebook. The Dads + a few other regulars could make quite a living if they ever wanted to set up a competing shop. Peterson’s, CTCL, and US News can be a start, but then there’s an investment of time, a sort of due diligence, to finding the right fit for an aspiring musician. </p>
<p>Just as an FYI, you should look in to attending the NACAC Performing and Visual Arts Fairs if one happens to occur in your city. The Fall 2009 circuit has already been published: <a href=“http://www.nacacnet.org/EventsTraining/CollegeFairs/pva/Pages/pvaschedule.aspx[/url]”>http://www.nacacnet.org/EventsTraining/CollegeFairs/pva/Pages/pvaschedule.aspx</a></p>
<p>Also, the website Bridge to Music could also be of use, in that it provides a free search of many (most) music programs, both colleges as well as after-school programs. It has a nifty compare tool as well. It makes for a decent starting point:
[Music</a> Lessons, Schools, Workshops, Classes, Festivals | Bridge to Music](<a href=“http://www.bridgetomusic.com%5DMusic”>http://www.bridgetomusic.com)</p>
<p>Another resource----check out YAPS(young artists programs) and get some insight as to who is producing these talented students. Lindemann(Met), Domingo-Thornton(LA Opera), Music Academy of the West etc.etc-. All of these programs list the current vocalists and generally list the schools they attend or attended.</p>
<p>I wish the artists were better about listing their undergrad schools. Many who have been to grad school only list those. The bios of professionals often omit undergrad too. Sometimes you have to do quite a bit of research. Personally, my D and I have never looked at Peterson’s.</p>
<p>When D was researching grad schools, it just took a few searches on the internet to get a school bio. Facebook has been a great “resource” as well.</p>
<p>Actually, you won’t find much on CC about UCLA or Cal States either…most posters are not from California and OOS applicants are at a disadvantage and have to pay high tuition, which makes it a less desirable option. UCLA offers a music degree in the College of Arts and Architecture, a B.A., not a BMus., so the requirements are far broader academically than in a conservatory. Applications are handled separately from the College of Letters and Sciences, and admittance is based in significant part on the audition. A recent big infusion of funding from Herb Alpert has led to a transformation of the music department, which has been divided into separate (and historically not very collegial) departments of music history, ethnomusicology, and performance. If you are interested in UC’s you might also look at UCSB, which offers BMus and BA options, at least for classical instrumental music.</p>
<p>The Peterson’s Guide was a great help for us once we had selected some schools to explore and wanted things in one place. The best starting point though was the music school fairs held in the fall. D began attending as a 9th grader, so when it came time to apply, she was already a familiar face to some of the admissions officers and could call/write with questions and they knew to whom they were responding. CC has been an invaluable source though and there are many things to be learned on here that aren’t published in any book!</p>