<p>Hi, I'm a rising senior in GA. I switched to the double bass the summer before my freshman year because it looked more fun than the cello (it is). However, the only recognition i've really gotten was making it to Allstate my sophmore year and I don't plan on getting more awards in the near future because I dislike competitions and I really just want to focus on learning. I'm really involved in music in other ways (youth orch, formed a quintet, do random solo jobs etc).</p>
<p>My question is, what is the level of other musicians likely to apply to Stanford? I know there are always a bunch of violin geniuses and cello prodigies, but would I stand even a small chance against other bassists?</p>
<p>Also, I've heard from people who have applied that the music program itself at Stanford kind of "sucks" in comparison to other highly competitive schools because there aren't as many opportunities.</p>
<p>If you are looking for a great music program with lots of opportunities to play and learn you will need to look elsewhere. Students don't come to Stanford because of the music program.</p>
<p>if you dislike competitions and the audition process,you may not be cut out for the ordeal of college music-major program tryouts.You may want to consider instead a program where music is an EC for you.</p>
<p>You will find lots of anecdotal info. about music students who have done very well at Stanford. Google "Mahan Esfahani" -- a recent Stanford grad. who is now at the Longy School of Music.</p>
<p>thanks for the replies! I don't plan on majoring or anything .. I just want to be able to join an orchestra or club or something</p>
<p>I'm don't want a career in music .. but it's something that I like to fill up my free time with</p>
<p>what I'm wondering is.. what is the level of the majority of the students applying (generally) .. aside from the unbelievably talented prodigies</p>
<p>Being Allstate is good enough in order to send in an audition tape. It can help you to gain admission if they are impressed and/or need a bass player. And it can't hurt you. </p>
<p>You will still need to audition for orchestra/ensembles during orientation, but it is generally very laid back and non-pressure kind of auditions.</p>
<p>Generally very serious musicians do not come to Stanford if they want a career in music.</p>