Dream Big: Finding a Future Music School That Fits You

Objective: Students will develop an early understanding of the different types of schools that offer music programs (colleges, universities, conservatories) and begin to think about how different environments support musical growth. Students will explore why finding the “right fit” — not just the most famous school — is important for their future.

Assignment: Finding a Future Music School That Fits You

Instructions:

1. Learn the Basics: We’ve talked about three kinds of schools where you can study music after high school:
   • Colleges: Small schools, mostly for undergraduates, with lots of personal attention.
   • Universities: Big schools with lots of students, including graduate students.
   • Conservatories: Special schools just for music training.
2. Pick One School: Choose a real school from the article or from your own research that has a music program you think sounds exciting. (You can also use one we talk about in class.)
3. Draw and Describe: Create a poster (on paper or digital) that includes:
   • The name of the school.
   • One fun fact about their music program (example: big marching band, great orchestra, lots of performances).
   • One reason you think this school might be a good fit for you.
4. Share with Class: Be ready to say 2–3 sentences about why you picked this school.

Rubric: Dream Big: Finding a Future Music School That Fits You

Grading Scale:

Finding Your Best-Fit Music Program: Research and Reflection

Objective: Students will understand the structural and experiential differences between colleges, universities, and conservatories offering music programs. They will learn to identify which type of institution best aligns with their personal learning style, career goals, and performance opportunities, emphasizing the importance of "fit" over "fame" in selecting an undergraduate music program.

Assignment: Finding Your Best-Fit Music Program: Research and Reflection

Instructions:

1. Read and Reflect:
   Carefully review the article “Choosing Where Undergraduate Music Majors Really Thrive: College vs. University Demystified.”
2. Research (Part 1):
   Select two schools from different categories listed in the article (e.g., one college with a conservatory and one university with a school of music).
   For each school, find:
   • The degrees offered in music.
   • Whether graduate students are part of the program.
   • The size and structure of the music department or conservatory.
   • Average undergraduate ensemble participation opportunities.
   • Any notable faculty or facilities.
3. Personal Analysis (Part 2):
   Write a 500–750 word reflection addressing the following:
   • Which of the two programs would better fit your personal learning style and career goals?
   • How important are performance opportunities to you compared to the school’s name recognition?
   • Based on what you learned, what type of institution (college, university, conservatory) seems best for you — and why?

Formatting Guidelines:

• Typed, double-spaced, 12-point font.
• Proper citations for any research (MLA or APA style).
• Submit as a PDF or Word document.

Rubric: Finding Your Best-Fit Music Program

Grading Scale:

Planting the Seeds for Future Musical Success

Dear ___________________ Parents,

It may seem early to be talking about college and careers, but believe it or not, the choices and passions your child is developing right now are already setting the stage for their future.

As a music teacher, I often think about how music shapes not just skills, but confidence, creativity, and character — the very things colleges and future employers look for. That’s why I wanted to share an inspiring article with you from Accoladi.com: “Choosing Where Undergraduate Music Majors Really Thrive: College vs. University Demystified.”

While high school and beyond may still feel far off, this article offers a fresh way to start thinking about what really matters when the time comes to choose a college or university. It challenges the idea that the biggest name equals the best opportunity — and instead helps students and families focus on finding the right fit for growth and success.

One line that really stood out to me — and that I believe applies even now — is:
“Your career starts the moment you step on campus — and the environment you choose will shape how much you grow and how far you go.”

It’s a reminder that the experiences we give our students today — opportunities to perform, to lead, to challenge themselves — are not just preparation for high school, but for a lifelong journey.

I encourage you to take a few minutes and read the article here: Accoladi.com — “Choosing Where Undergraduate Music Majors Really Thrive: College vs. University Demystified”

You may even want to talk with your child about it — not to plan their future just yet, but to plant the idea that their passions can lead to real opportunities if they find the right place to grow.

It’s never too early to dream — and to dream wisely.

Respectfully,

__________________________________________
[Director’s Name and Position]

_________________________________________________________
[School Name]

Why Choosing the Right Music Program Matters More Than You Think 🎶

Dear ____________________ Parents,

As your student begins to think about the future — not just next year, but life beyond high school — one of the biggest decisions they’ll face is where to continue their musical and academic journey. College, university, conservatory — these words swirl around, and the choice can seem overwhelming.

That’s why I’m excited to share a thought-provoking article with you: “Choosing Where Undergraduate Music Majors Really Thrive: College vs. University Demystified” — now available on Accoladi.com.

This is not just another college guide. It’s a true eye-opener that challenges students (and parents) to think differently about the college decision. It’s about more than a big name or a prestigious reputation. It’s about fit — and how the right environment can shape not just their education, but their career.

One sentence from the article really struck me:
“Your career starts the moment you step on campus — and the environment you choose will shape how much you grow and how far you go.”

I’ll admit, when I was heading off to college, I thought my career would start after graduation. But looking back, it was the experiences, mentors, and performance opportunities during college that truly launched me forward. The decisions made at 17 or 18 years old matter more than most realize.

This article invites students to reflect deeply:

• Who am I as a musician?
• What kind of environment do I need to thrive?
• Do I want to compete for performance opportunities, or lead in them?
• Am I more suited for a small, mentorship-driven college or a large university teeming with opportunity — and competition?

The answers to these questions are as personal as they are important. Helping students understand the difference between a college, university, conservatory, and everything in between empowers them to make a choice based not on prestige, but on where they can truly grow and succeed.

I strongly encourage you to read the article together with your child. You can find it here:
Accoladi.com — “Choosing Where Undergraduate Music Majors Really Thrive: College vs. University Demystified”

This might just be the most important conversation you have as you support your child’s next big step.

Let’s make sure they choose not just a school — but their future.

Respectfully,

__________________________________________
[Director’s Name and Position]

_________________________________________________________
[School Name]