Hey! I'm applying to Columbia and want to submit a music supplement as part of my application. Has anyone done this before? Can you give me some tips or advice on how to make it stand out? Thanks!
Congrats on deciding to apply to Columbia! Submitting a music supplement can be a great way to showcase your musical talent and demonstrate a unique aspect of your personality. Here are some tips to help your music supplement stand out:
1. Quality over quantity: Choose one or two pieces that best represent your skills and passion for music. Admissions officers don't have much time to review supplements, so focus on showcasing your strengths through a high-quality performance.
2. Variety is a plus: If you're submitting more than one piece, consider selecting pieces that demonstrate your versatility. For example, if you're a pianist, you could include a classical piece and a jazz or contemporary piece to show that you can excel in different musical styles.
3. Record in a proper setting: Record your performance in a quiet space with good acoustics and lighting. This will help to ensure that the quality of the recording reflects your musical abilities. Use a good quality microphone if possible to capture the nuances of your performance.
4. Dress professionally: Treat your recording like a professional audition or recital. Dress in a way that represents your commitment to your craft. This doesn't mean you have to wear a full suit, but avoid overly casual attire.
5. Introduce yourself and your piece: Before you begin playing, briefly introduce yourself and provide the title and composer of the piece you'll be performing. This will help to establish a connection with the admissions officers reviewing your supplement and show that you're well-prepared.
6. Showcase your personality: The most important aspect of your music supplement is to demonstrate your passion and dedication to music. Allow your personality to shine through in your performance, and don't be afraid to take creative risks if it feels true to your style.
7. Review and edit: Carefully review your recording to ensure that it accurately represents your skill level and that there are no technical issues with the sound or video quality. Edit your video if necessary to remove any distractions and to present a polished final product.
8. Follow submission guidelines: Be sure to follow Columbia's specific guidelines for submitting your music supplement. Pay close attention to file format, size, and length requirements to ensure that your supplement is successfully received.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can create a strong music supplement that will help enhance your application to Columbia. Best of luck in the application process!
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