<p>Hi, I'm a junior living in GA. Does anybody know how strong the music program is at Stanford, especially its orchestra? Also, I play the double bass. I'm not a prodigy or anything because I've only been playing for two years, but I made it into my state's All-State Orch. Will this help me at all in the admission process?</p>
<p>haha sorry this is so specific</p>
<p>Play the double base? Ever try electric base?</p>
<p>Stanford's music program, like everything else at Stanford, is incredible. Here's a link to the SSO's page, which I'm also interested in trying out for next fall- <a href="http://sso.stanford.edu/%5B/url%5D">http://sso.stanford.edu/</a>
At Admit Weekend I listened to the SSO perform a few pieces and they sounded very impressive. As to admissions, All-State can only help- I just don't know how much. If it helps, I was in All-State orchestra as well.</p>
<p>What did you guys think of the brass and percussion playing the Copland?</p>
<p>The guy playing the trumpet was a little off at times, but understandable. Overall, it was great.</p>
<p>I thought that the brass during the Copland was a little shakey, but the full orchestral piece that was played next was fantastic, especially the strings. And the conductor of that piece was incredible, as was the solo violinist.</p>
<p>Jenuinex26, I think you'd be quite happy playing in the Stanford Symphony Orchestra. By the way, all of the symphonic and choral groups will be touring Beijing in 2008 around the time of the Olympics! Your musical accomplishments will definitely help you with admissions. Make sure you highlight them, and submit a CD, or better yet, come for a live audition.</p>
<p>well i never tried the electric bass .. guess i was never cool enough =]
I have dabbled in guitar and drums just for fun</p>
<p>but the double bass is definately my love.. especially after all those "asian" years of forced piano and cello lessons .. </p>
<p>oo yes .. defintely love it</p>
<p>btw .. thanks for all the replies guys! these discussion forums help a lot!</p>
<p>one more question .. specifically to FarmDad (or anybody who would know)</p>
<p>do you know if live auditions have more of an impact than tapes? because I'm perfectly willing to haul my bass across the country (on foot if I have to) for a live audition if I will have a chance to either meet private teachers/make a greater impression/etc. </p>
<p>but if not .. I don't think I will to due to financial reasons .. and really the safety of my instrument </p>
<p>thanks again!</p>
<p>It's perfectly fine to submit a CD rather than travel for a live audition. The music department and admissions committee know that it is not feasible for most students to travel for an audition and it would be unfair for them to penalize those who do not. Also, one can always have a bad day with a live audition whereas with a CD, you can always keep recording until you get it right. All that said, however, I can't help but think that a live audition provides a unique opportunity to make a personal connection with a member of the music faculty and show your spark. Stanford does not do admissions interviews and a live audition is probably the only opportunity to have face time during the admissions process, for whatever that is worth. During my daughter's audition, in addition to her performing, she was engaged in brief conversation that enabled her to demonstrate her knowledge of repertoire, passion for her music, and enthusiasm about the school. They might even provide you with a bass so that you would not have to haul yours across the country!</p>
<p>How much does an impressive audition help in admissions anyway? Since the adcoms make the final decisions...To what extent does the music dept have a say?</p>
<p>I think it has an impact. When D, who did a live audition, was admitted, her materials included a very nice note from an admissions officer alluding to her music performance. My sense is that if you're dedicated to music and plan to continue in college, it's a good idea to show your excitement and talent through the audition process.</p>