Hi All - My daughter has pretty much finalized her selections for college applications, but is still in flux about UT, Austin for voice (soprano). Her private vocal teacher likes the program on paper, but does not know the faculty personally (he has predominantly east coast connections). Without expanding the discussion to other schools, can anyone address the quality of the faculty, size of the program, and overall undergraduate music experience? Are there any issues with the department that would prevent you from considering it as a good place for an undergrad to go? Thanks!
I’m sorry that I don’t know about UT except the following:
My sister-in-law is a prof in psychology there.
When I visit, the music scene is amazing…of course not so much of a classical scene…but the bars are super fun! Austin is a very fun yet manageable city. I can’t imagine one not liking the Austin scene.
My impressions is that it has a good program for instrumentalists. They have a big violin competition there - I know this bc my brother hosted a student. I’m just not so familiar with the voice side of things at UT.
If you visit, like the program and find a good faculty member that connects well with your D, that’s what’s most important.
Wish I could say more…but that’s the best I can do.
I think North Texas has a better reputation than UT. I would encourage her to also look at SMU because they are very generous with aid.
I can’t really offer any insight to answer your questions, but I figure any input could help: have a friend there who is a senior VP major. He seems to really like it there and his voice is beautiful, imo. He got into other “top VP schools” like Oberlin and CCM, but chose UT Austin because it was the most affordable - and he seems content with that decision!
My D just applied there. Awaiting results of the prescreen. Anyone else?
Agree with CollegeDadofTwo on both North Texas and SMU as to undergraduates. The graduate program at UT is stronger IMO than for undergrads. I also am not that crazy about the influence of the marching band at Butler SM.
Yeah that certainly is in line with my impression too. I am from Austin and relatives still live there, so that’s why I decided we might as well check it out. It’s not one of the top choices, though.
My child attends SMU, and while not a music major, s/he is connected with Meadows School of Music for a minor. S/he had the opportunity to major in music at SMU, but chose a path in the hard sciences. S/he does have some friends majoring in music at SMU; some in voice. I have little good to say about the program my child is pursuing for his/her major, but I have almost nothing negative to report about the music department. It is true that SMU is generous with aid (just be aware that tuition will rise every year), so do not count the school out based on sticker price. Of course North Texas has a fabulous reputation for music. I have friends in my age range (old!!) who attended North Texas and these folks continue to experience great successes in music. Best of luck to you and your daughter!