Wisdom of changing intended major from performance to composition?

shinster
Thu, 24 Jun 2010 04:02:44 +0000

Hi marimbamom,

I was kind of in the same situation as your son. I played my instruments for 14 years and I suddenly started composing in the spring of my senior year. I would advise getting a composition teacher. I only had my composition teacher for a month before portfolios were due, working together non-stop on getting 3 scores completed. My teacher happily wrote me a recommendation. She actually asked if she could write one for me. I think it’s important for the department to read of your son’s abilities, “teachability” and potential from a teacher who specializes in composition. (And depending on the school, you need 3 recommendations from those who can speak of your son’s musical abilities). Also, in the last minute, my teacher hooked me up with performance opportunities of my compositions free of charge by her colleagues who happened to be doctors and graduate students of the particular instruments.

Since I’m going to UMich this fall, I’ll provide a little information:
Even though ~50% of all Michigan freshman have a 3.9 GPA or higher, the School of Music’s average GPA of freshman is 3.6, which shows that they emphasize more on talent. The minimum GPA is a 3.0 and an “SAT of 1100 or better in the Critical Reading and Math, or SAT of 1650 or better including Writing.” I wouldn’t take a school out of the running because of academics.
Also, Michigan’s composition department, like many other schools, pride themselves for having very diverse voices in the student body. And, in the department alone, the voices are very unique from professor to professor.
And you’ll get the full college experience, not being stuck in a music “bubble”; be able to work with theater, dance, and other disciplines; and much more.
[UM School of Music, Theatre & Dance - Department of Composition - FAQ](http://www.music.umich.edu/departments/composition/faq.htm)

If your son has the talent and keeps above the minimum requirements, every school is realistic! Don’t let anything discourage your son from the possibilities! And I found that they like to see your POTENTIAL at their school more than anything, so I say apply to Michigan, Northwestern, and USC if he’s drawn to their music departments!

Good luck to you and your son!