I always think concerns like these are best shared with parents, music teachers and friends. Its certainly OK to ask on here for “opinions” but I would hope that you are reaching out to people who know you well for help. I will share another way to look at this…and then you need to do some research with your college, teachers and family.
1.) You are going to a music school that will allow you to study clarinet, piano and possibly composition. It sounds like a “flexible” school with lots of opportunities. That’s good for someone like you with multiple musical interests who is still exploring opportunities (nothing wrong with that!!).
2.) You can probably change your emphasis once you get there (you may want to check this). Most first (and second to a degree) semester courses are required for all students and are general like Theory 1 or 2. You can always “start” with clarinet…and then work with the faculty to decide if you can/should “transfer” your primary emphasis…or drop one. There may be no guarantee of switching to piano but there is no guarantee of re-auditioning for piano and getting an acceptance. It “may” be easier to do a transfer once in the program and working with faculty. You can talk with your advisor and teachers (clarinet and piano) about your uncertainties (and you will NOT be the first student in the situation…there will have been many…its OK to be torn…my D was!). The advisor can help you with the best schedule in case of a transfer. The faculty can help you understand what may be best for you over the first and/or second semester.
3.) It’s always nice to think that you get decide (or maybe it’s not and feels super stressful!). However in the arts, many times the decisions are made by you interacting with teachers, auditions and audiences. Part of the UG experience is figuring out what you can and can’t do…and learning to manage your frustrations and focus your talents. This is the faculties job…you don’t do it on your own. And…a conflicted, worried undergrad is usually MOST undergrads. Teachers are there to “steer you” based on your skills, talents and interests.
4.) Maybe some of your “concerns” are related to the big change that is coming. That is normal too. You may feel “not good enough” or “on the wrong path”. Very normal feelings. But the faculty at the college is waiting for a new crop of freshmen to work with for 4 years…and they will all be different and needing guidance. You may need to “trust the process” of education.
I don’t know what you should do. I’m only suggesting an “option” for you to think through with your parents or a teacher. Maybe contacting the school to discuss your concerns with a music advisor will help. Expressing these concerns does not make you less serious about music at all. It just makes you thoughtful.
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