Re: College Auditions


[ Follow Ups ] [ Post Followup ] [ TubeNet BBS ] [ FAQ ]

Posted by Steve Dedman on September 04, 2001 at 23:22:35:

In Reply to: College Auditions posted by Michael on September 04, 2001 at 21:36:46:

I think that you may be missing something here.

Going to a high-caliber conservatory doesn't guarantee that you will be molded into a world-class performer any more than going to the Mayo Clinic guarantees a cure. Yes, the chances are better than average, but the focus needs to be on the teacher and the opportunities to perform.

I would suggest looking into the U of Wisconsin system. Alan Baer at UW-Milwaukee has a great rep, and you might even study with him already. John Stevens at UW-Madison is a FABULOUS teacher, and has recently had students show very well in international competition. As an added incentive to you and your parents, it sounds as if in-state tuition would apply, and either school would probably be interested in your scholarship audition. So you could get a tremendous (world-class) education as a tuba performer and musician, and along the way save $100K-plus on your education by staying right in your own backyard. Plus you're close enough to Chicago to get the occasional lesson with Rex Martin or Gene Pokorny, or any of the other high-caliber teachers in the Chicagoland area. Do you have any idea how many player there are out in the e-world that would gladly make a deal with Old Scratch to have a situation as good? Not trying to slam on you; just wanting to put a perspective here. You are already in as good a position as any high school senoir could dream. Be wise in how you deal with it.

If you still feel the need for a conservatory atmosphere, get your master's at one.

SD


Follow Ups: