How much do music supplements actually help for admissions?

[jazzpianodad]

I’d also be wary of anyone who claims to have a definitive answer as to exactly how much, but I think it can definitely help, depending on the school. Here’s what the Columbia web site has to say on the topic, which is an FAQ:

HOW MUCH WEIGHT DOES MY RECORDING CARRY IN GAINING ADMITTANCE TO COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY?

For undergraduate admissions, all applications are first vetted according to test scores and grades, after which supplemental materials do play a role in determining admissions. Recordings from applications which pass through the first round of application screening are carefully considered and can significantly contribute to admissions decisions.

http://mpp.music.columbia.edu/frequently-asked-questions

For what it’s worth, I know that the head of the jazz program at Columbia does talk with the admissions department about talented jazz musicians he’d like to see admitted. I also know that not all of them are admitted - I don’t think he has the same kind of sway that the head football coach has, but it is a factor they consider.

I’d also mention that, if you’re serious about pursuing jazz in college, Yale does not have a jazz program. Columbia has a fantastic jazz program (and, of course, it’s in NYC). Princeton also has a strong jazz program.

Best of luck!