Which Musicians Get the Scholarships?
Anyone who is thinking of college is probably thinking about scholarships, and for a musician it is no different. Now, the question is how do you get a music scholarships?
Music scholarships come in all different sizes and shapes. They are awarded by public or private organizations and the amount can range anywhere from a hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Colleges and universities, in most cases, will award the best scholarships. Most colleges will consider musicians for scholarships when they apply to their music department, although some schools might have a separate process.
Other scholarship opportunities can be found on the internet. Each scholarship will have its own unique set of requirements which can include: application, letters of reference, transcripts, performance resume etc. Some scholarships will have a requirement for the musician to attend specific events and concerts.
What makes a musician qualified for a music scholarship? The short answer is – talent. The better musician has the better the chance of getting a scholarship. So, practice, practice, practice, take private lessons, play in as many ensembles as possible, and then practice some more.
Scholarship committees also look for things like playing with auditioned ensembles such as at All State or All District festivals as well as awards or other recognitions. Make sure to mention these ensembles or distinction on scholarship applications.
Playing a less common instrument is also an advantage. A musical ensemble is like a sports team. It is important to have the right players on the team. A musician who plays a specialty instruments, such as the oboe or French horn, will be more likely to receive a scholarship than the musician who plays a more common instrument.
Grades are also a factor in scholarship awards. Music scholarships may have academic requirements in addition to musical requirements. Music scholarships that are awarded by a college or university will likely require the musician to maintain a specific GPA in order to keep the scholarships. These same scholarships generally specify that the musician will play in specific ensembles as determined by the school.
Applying for music scholarships is a long process. Like all other scholarships, there are many more applicants than awards. Of course, you will never get a scholarship if you don’t apply.
Mary Poodel has written numerous articles on financial aid, online degrees, campus life, online colleges, and college admission.