<p>Hi. So I've been reading thousands of posts and forums on the art supplement and I am becoming hesitant whether I should submit one. I have been playing the violin for nearly 12 years, and have some accomplishments like being selected (auditioned) as the first violinist of a quartet that was going to tour several countries, being a first violin third-chair in a college orchestra (non student club), being invited and played in a old-retired-clarinetist's private concert (he played for Reagan and the royalty of the Netherlands), and some other stuff. BUT, my main concern is that I may be considered a skilled violinist in my country and area, but I don't know if I can compete against music majors or other people from the states who have had much more experience than I did.</p>
<p>I'm majoring in molecular biology or biomed. engineering and would like to submit a supplement to boost my chances. Any advice? I am going to record myself playing Paginini's Cantabile with a pianist accompanying me. Oh and IF I DECIDE NOT TO SUBMIT a supplement on submitted applications that I indicated that I would upload a supplement, will it be negative on my candidacy? Will colleges think that I "chickened out" at the last second?</p>
<p>Yes, they probably will thin you chickened out, but it wouldn’t be the biggest deal. </p>
<p>You should not be scared about competing against music majors because 1) You are probably not a music major, and I think an admissions officer will clearly see that and 2) If you are a music major, and you are scared, well, then you have a confidence problem or you should switch majors.</p>
<p>Go for it. I submitted some orignal guitarwork. I’ve read somewhere that admissions officers listen to the supplement as they read the application, it’s another side of your personality that they get to see. Sometimes these supplements can be the little nudge that gets you accepted. Personally, I don’t think enough people take advantage of it. </p>
<p>Now as to whether to submit, the choice is yours. However, my advice is, if your music supplement isn’t conservatory quality, it might detract from the overall impression of your application. </p>
<p>My biggest concern is that I’m applying to some top schools and they explicitly state “Only submit if you exceptional or unusual talent.” Still a go?</p>