By the time this article is published, most seniors have already finished their college applications and are anxiously awaiting for the decisions. But for art applicants, now is just the beginning of their time and energy-consuming process of auditions.
“I have auditions back to back in the next two weekends, a weekend break after that, and then two more weekend auditions,” said Kevin Higgins, a current senior at East who plans to major in dance.
Despite the high percentage of students enrolled in music and art courses at East, the number of seniors who go on to major in the arts is surprisingly low.
“Average it out over the last 18 years I have worked here, [and] I would say less than one [student majored in music] per year” said East’s music director Ryan Ellefsen.
One reason for such few music applicants could be the enormous amount of dedication required.
“I’ve studied dance for about 13 years now,” Higgins said. “And I started to work in professional modern dance companies during sophomore year.”
Kevin Chen, a clarinet applicant, said that his interest also developed early on.
“I began playing clarinet in fourth grade, and have joined many ensembles and chamber groups since.”
The task of applying to college level music programs is no game either. In fact, according to Higgins and Chen, it usually consists of double the amount of work required from regular applicants.
“Apart from regular academic application, you also have to have a portfolio, and the requirements for that differ among every school,” Higgins said.
Through their artistic portfolio (which are usually due on Dec. 1), the admission team will decide whether or not to invite them back for auditions, which will usually be held on campus.
When choosing where to apply, music applicants also need to consider whether they want to study at a conservatory or traditional academic institution.
“I would be happy at any of the programs I’m applying to; but if I have the option, I definitely want to minor in an academic field.” Higgins said.
However, Ellefsen seems to lean toward universities for aspiring music majors.
“The benefit of being at a college is that if the person changes their mind, they are in an institution where they are able to pivot.”
Regardless of the music program to which one chooses to apply, support from their family is absolutely essential. Fortunately, Higgins has gained full support from his parents.
“I’m very thankful because not everyone’s family supports them going into a career in the arts,” he remarked.
On the other hand, Chen’s parents have some different views.
“They don’t want me to completely pursue only music, so I decided to try to pursue a double major instead,” Chen said.
Recognizing that employment after college can be a major concern for many music school applicants, Higgins outlined his detailed career plan after graduation.
“After I get my dance degree, I plan on working for a dance company for about 10 years. After that, I want to go back to college and get my masters so I can work as a resident choreographer for professional companies.”
In an effort to prepare future aspiring artists who are interested in studying music at a collegiate level, Chen noted a few tips.
“Try to focus on getting really good at 2-3 pieces that you can use for any sort of audition when they ask for you to play, think of it like your ace in the sleeve.”
All of them agreed that it’s crucial to always keep in mind why you choose this particular path. Just like Higgins said about his choice of becoming a dancer: “It’s the career path that I see myself doing where I would make the most out of my life—I love it, and can’t really imagine doing anything else.”
Image by Hammond Cole Sherouse/The ECHO
