Is he doing BFA, BM or BS in UMichigan PAT? Does he know what his focus would be there? Is he more interested in production, technology, sound engineering? Does he have an interest in the visual arts, or multi-media or new media? Does he compose? Is he more focused on the technology/studio aspects or creative/compositional aspects? (Posting website info below for the forum though I know you have read it!)
PAT (Performing Arts Technology): " Integrating the study of music, engineering, and allied arts in a close-knit, collaborative environment, the department features an inspiring and accomplished faculty comprising renowned scholars, teachers, artists and practitioners. Students collaborate with highly-talented peers across campus—from performing artists of every genre to next-generation audio technologists at the College of Engineering.
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Performing Arts Technology" The BFA most resembles TIMARA; the BM includes performance; the BS includes sound engineering, sound recording and studio production.
TIMARA (Technology in Music and Related Arts) " is for students who desire careers that combine traditional music skills with exploration of the latest techniques for electroacoustic musical expression. We offer a structured course of study that emphasizes the application of technology as a resource for careers in composition, new media, and performance."
“The major prepares a student for specialized graduate study in electroacoustic music, digital media, and interdisciplinary performance. For those who go directly into professional life, this major offers a structured course of study that stresses the application of technology as a special resource in composition, new media, and performance.” TIMARA has a collection oof vintage and newer electronic instruments.
This is a tough choice! Does he prefer one location over the other (they are sufficiently different)? Does he prefer large or small? Does he like the idea of total focus on undergrads or see positives in the presence of grad students? Are there a lot of opportunities for perfomance?
Check out Brown’s MEME and Dartmouth’s Digital Arts grad programs. They might be clarifying somehow-? Let us know what he chooses!