<p>What kind of program is he looking for? Conservatory/music school BM or college/university BA? Double major, double degree? Here is a good essay on types of degrees, for him to read: [Double</a> Degrees | Peabody Conservatory](<a href=“http://www.peabody.jhu.edu/conservatory/admissions/tips/doubledegree.html]Double”>http://www.peabody.jhu.edu/conservatory/admissions/tips/doubledegree.html)</p>
<p>What kind of composition? Classical, jazz, popular? Has he been exposed to a lot of “new music”? Any study already in theory? Any summer programs? Has had music played by good musicians so that a portfolio will be possible?</p>
<p>Is he a senior?</p>
<p>Does he enjoy other areas of study?</p>
<p>Top east coast conservatories include New England Conservatory, Juilliard, Manhattan School of Music, Mannes/New School, Peabody, Curtis, Hartt, Ithaca, Eastman. Cleveland Institute, Cincinnati Conservatory, Indiana/Jacobs, Oberlin and Lawrence in the midwest. </p>
<p>For conservatories that are free standing, the portfolio is the most important: grades and scores don’t figure that strongly in the application.</p>
<p>There are many programs in colleges and universities that offer excellent BA programs, some without any performance involved for composers. Grades and scores are important in those applications, and the student can include an arts supplement with scores/CD, resume, programs, and letters of recommendation from teachers.</p>
<p>Every school’s aesthetic and curriculum is different. Sometimes the best thing to look for is a school that allows each student’s “individual voice” to develop rather than a strong, uniform aesthetic to follow. Attending concerts can really help with this: are the pieces all different?</p>
<p>Websites are really useful. The student can look at the courses and requirements, read faculty bios, and listen to faculty works. Sometimes student works are available as well.</p>
<p>Hope this is helpful.</p>