@overwhelmed2019 if you haven’t started reading some of the MT board threads, start now and don’t stop, haha. One thread is called Coaches Corner and you will read about how the Audition coaches helped other students and their parent through this crazy roller coaster ride. We found out too late there even was such a thing as coaches. If you can afford one, it is definitely the way to go to help keep your sanity, and I truly believe that they give your child a “leg-up” with some of the top tier schools (if that is the kind of program you are looking for). Music theory is pretty important in the MT BFA programs, and most schools will have piano as part of the curriculum. Every MT program that we looked at had a different curriculum so in choosing schools to apply to you may want to check that out and see what schools are strongest in the areas your child wants to become better at or what your child enjoys more. If your child thrives on being on stage, then remember that at some programs freshman will not be cast in productions. There are colleges who have lots of performance opportunities and colleges that have very few. (I believe it it Nebraska Wesleyan who has tons of performance opportunities). Some programs think students learn best while “doing” and some programs think students need to learn in classroom and learn by being involved backstage. SO many things to consider. Good luck!!