<p>I have played the piano for 10 years, however i do not have a long list of awards since the current location i'm in does have many music competitions. In fact, my high school does not even have a music department and thus i had to pursue my passion for music (including flute and violin) on my own and through private lessons. In order to show the admissions committee the extent of my passion for music I was considering submitting a CD of myself playing the piano. It mentions that in order to do so, one should have "exceptional" talent in the specific field of music. What exactly do they mean by "exceptional?" I was considering playing Franz Listz's Liebestraum No. 3, but I am unsure whether the level of this song is mediocre or "exceptional."<br>
any input will be highly appreciated.</p>
<p>The top colleges are generally looking for external recognition, and beyond the school or local level - state level and higher would probably warrant a submission. But this is just my interpretation based on reading several books on US admissions written by admissions officers, i don't pretend to be an authority.</p>
<p>Sara: I don't think submitting a CD can hurt you; the admissions dept will just send it on to the music dept. If they think you're worth having, they will let admissions know. If not, it's as if you never submitted anything extra at all. My son will submit his CD, has won some local competitions but never competed beyond that level. If you have Carnegie Hall credits to your name, then there's really no need to supplement that with a CD. It's the kids like you who may get a nod from the music dept, IMHO.</p>