<p>Compmom, I got your message and replied. Thanks! </p>
<p>SpiritManager, this is very helpful. You nailed it exactly with Oberlin. He is not as much of a fan of new music, but yet this was the only conservatory that he visited and appreciated the quality of the camp program. He only started composing seriously a year ago and is still finding his voice so to speak. His music is probably a bit of a reflection on himself-- a mix of three cultures, school systems and languages and needs a program that would allow him that freedom and support. I think that is what he appreciated the most about Oberlin as he felt that freedom there. He said it reminded him quite a bit of his Swedish schooling. </p>
<p>He is open for a BA in music and a double major, but did not want him to reach for the Ivies and then get disappointed. . . Here are more questions. . .
So would Lawrence be more of a safety school for him?<br>
Are all of the others reaches?<br>
Anything that he should focus on especially the next 7 months before he sends off his pre-screenings?<br>
He wants to write a few more pieces this summer.<br>
Which of the Ivies you mentioned has the strongest composition program?<br>
Would he then add his compositions and cello pieces to a musical supplement?<br>
Are his SAT scores simply too low? We have been told to have him take the TOEFL exam since he only started doing school in English in 9th grade. Sorry for all the questions. . . PM me if you want more information. </p>