<p>I was rejected at USC during prescreening for BM/BA program but accepted at UCLA for music ed (most likely switching to performance if possible). i will be attending UCLA, but i do not know very much about its music department. my primary instrument is violin but i play piano and viola too</p>
<p>some questions
How prestigious is UCLA's music department?
USC Thornton seems very well known, how does UCLA compare?</p>
<p>also, does submitting an audition tape and going to a live audition make a huge difference in admissions? i didn't go to a single in-person audition. i just sent in CDs/DVDs</p>
<p>UCLA is a top school generally, both in California as one of the flagship UC's, nationally, and internationally; it has a long-established and well-respected music department that has just received a big infusion of funding by the Herb Alpert foundation. It is revamping the way the various music programs are organized and interact. Los Angeles is a vibrant music community and UCLA has strong ties to it. All these portend well for UCLA music's future.<br>
I would not worry about relative prestige in the world at large for your program; work hard, practice a lot, find out who the best teachers are and study with them.</p>
<p>UCLA is a small audition in program and not that easy. Voice, violin, or piano have to have a pre-screen if they are applying from somewhere else. However, from the UCLA Music school FAQs:
I am already at UCLA, how can I do a change of major into Music?</p>
<p>Change of major applicants should arrange an appointment with the undergraduate advisor during fall quarter. A preliminary review of your eligibility will be discussed as well as the forms you will need to submit.</p>