<p>It seems that the BA/BM decision is largely predicated by whether you want to spend at least 75% doing music-related coursework, or more like 25%. Do you want to live and breathe music in college, or have it more as an avocation?</p>
<p>I don’t think it is easier to get into programs for a BM, particularly at a school like USC, than a BA. Many kids who are Music majors in colleges or universities would not be accepted to conservatories. However, some of those conservatory applicants wouldn’t have the grades/stats for some of the schools at which the music BA’s are studying.</p>
<p>So, it’s a combination of drive/ambition/talent/future goals that might make your decision clearer.</p>