Applying for music school? Here’s how to make connections with the professors BEFORE your audition

Before I auditioned for music school, I set up some meetings with the professors. I needed to because I am transitioning from a long-scrape oboe style to a short-scrape one, and I wanted to know whether the professors were on board with that. Little did I know though, that those connections would be so helpful in the audition process.

Here is how I made connections with the professors, and how you can too.

Establishing connections beforehand

For me this was really important. Well before my auditions, I contacted the professors and asked to have a zoom call with them. The reason was that I am switching from the long scrape oboe style to the short scrape style, and I wanted to make sure that the professor was open to that.

If you don’t know already, I am moving from the US to the UK to study oboe. And I can’t wait to take you along. If you want some behind the scenes from my new chapter, sign up to get that in your inbox.

What does that look like for you? Maybe you have something that you want to discuss with a professor beforehand. Don’t be afraid to send an email!

Taking trial lessons

This is something that everyone does. Taking trial lessons is the perfect way to see how well you work with someone – and how well they work with you.

I had some trial lessons that went really well, and I knew that I wanted to work with the teacher, and others that really just didn’t go as well. So taking trial lessons is your tool to choosing the right teacher.

And it is the perfect excuse to get in contact with professors beforehand!

Maintain those connections

Now that you have established those connections, don’t let them go slack!

Now, after a trial lesson, you might feel more excited about some connections more than others. That is really valuable to know!

Here are some ways of maintaining connections:

• After you send in your application, send them an email briefly saying that you are looking forward to them seeing your work.
• Acknowledging them in your audition
• If you visit the school, set up a meeting or lesson with them!

Remember to always observe the situation. Only you can tell what is appropriate or not.

Connecting with teachers is so important. If you have any other ways, comment them below!

All my best,

Eleanor