FAQs

Do you get the best musical training at a conservatory? 

 

You can get excellent training at a conservatory, a liberal arts college, or a university! The most important factor is to find a program and college that is a good fit for you. Each type of institution has its pros and cons, so it’s important to explore all of the possibilities and keep an open mind. SoundPath specializes in helping you find the best-fit schools where you will thrive. 

 

 

Do you need a music degree if you want to go into production? 

 

There are certainly many professionals in music production that do not have music degrees. However, having a music degree could really give you an edge over your competition and could also greatly enhance your production work. 

 

 

What’s the most common mistake students make at their audition?

 

The biggest mistake is when students try to impress the audition committee with extremely challenging pieces that may be too difficult for them. It’s better to perform works that you know really well and showcase your strongest performance skills. SoundPath can assist you in selecting audition repertoire that reflects you in your best light!

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Is it better to audition in person or by video? 

 

Most programs accept video auditions, especially for students who are unable to travel. If you are able to travel, auditioning in person definitely has advantages. Not only will the audition panel have an opportunity to get to know you, but you can also take the time to speak with current students, explore the campus, and imagine yourself there. On the other hand, if you are prone to performance anxiety, a video audition would be less stressful and possibly show you in a stronger light. 

 

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If you’re a non-music major, can you participate in ensembles? 

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Most colleges welcome non-music majors into several ensembles – band, orchestra, choir, etc. Ensembles like pep band and marching band are often composed of primarily non-music majors. If you play an instrument that the school needs, you may even qualify for a scholarship!

 

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If video auditions are accepted, should you apply to more schools? 

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While video auditions can save time on travel, they still are very time consuming. We help you to create a list of several schools with varying levels of selectivity and advise that it doesn’t get too long because you could become overwhelmed with the applications, videos, essays, and other requirements. 

 

 

I’ve heard that the audition is 90% of getting acceptance into a program. Does that mean academics aren’t important? 

 

Auditions are definitely a major factor in getting admitted to a program, but 90% is a bit extreme. For most programs, you need to also get admitted into the university, which means you need the academic qualifications to be on par with other candidates. 

 

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Does it matter if you pursue a BA versus a BM? 

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A Bachelor of Music (or BM) will have more music content in the curriculum versus a Bachelor of Arts (or BA). With a BA, you have more opportunities to explore other academic subjects and may learn you have a strength in business or graphic design, for example. Both degrees are valuable, and SoundPath can guide as to which is the best fit for the student. 

 

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What can you do with a music degree besides teach or play in an orchestra? 

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There are endless possibilities and career paths for musicians. Arts administration, audio production, music therapy, and sound engineering are just a few of the fields where musicians find employment. Choosing a minor, double major, or dual degree can also help broaden the possibilities of a successful career path.

 

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How important are summer camps and activities? 

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Summer is a great time to hone your skills, interact with other musicians, both students and professionals, and explore new areas. SoundPath can guide you to find many activities in which you can participate including: taking private lessons, learning to compose, practicing music theory, preparing for auditions, participating in master classes, improving sight-reading skills, and performing in a band, orchestra, or choir.