<p>It sounds like a performance submission could help. Again, I encourage you to consult with your private teacher.With your credentials, I assume you have a piano teacher who has been around the block on this issue. </p>
<p>While you don’t necessarily have to have won national competitions to submit a sample of your playing to Yale, you probably need some outside confirmation that you have chops – strong showings at important regional competitions, participation in master classes with well-known pianists, major performances that required audition (From the Top, for example) are good benchmarks. </p>
<p>As SpiritManager points out, the issues surrounding a composition submission are different. In that area, your piano teacher isn’t going to be of much help. Consult with someone who can give you a realistic evaluation of your skill and talent as a composer.</p>