When I auditioned for 12 music schools in 3 different countries, there were some important things that I learned when visiting the schools. If you are visiting schools, you might want to know about them.
1. Get in touch with students before you go
When I visited the Royal Northern College of Music, I had been in touch with one of the oboists there. We had agreed to meet up whilst I was there. I remember waiting near the entrance of the school when I saw her walk down the stairs. She was followed by other oboists because they had just come out of a class. I thought that she would say goodbye to them and then talk to me, but she introduced them to me and we all had an amazing chat! About the school, how they like it, what their classes are like etc. — It was so good!
Having a contact before you go is so helpful for a better visit, and also so that you can feel a bit more comfortable in the new setting.
You can ask the teachers if they could put you in contact with a student, or see if the school is able to do that for you.
2. Get in contact with a teacher before you go
When I visited the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, I was in contact with the Head of Woodwind, who is also an oboe teacher. She was so lovely and let me join in on a few classes! I watched a performance class, and played in a repertoire class. It was such an amazing way to experience the school, and it wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t already had that connection.
A great way to get in contact is through a trial lesson, or just simply emailing a teacher and introducing yourself.
3. Schedule a trial lesson while you are there
This is a perfect way to see what it is like working with a certain teacher. When it is at the school, it is also a really helpful when imagining if the school feels right.
If you are interested in doing a trial lesson, and want to know more about how it works, click here!
4. Look at the areas around the school
These areas might be where you live, or you might live near them. Maybe you will walk through them to get to class. While you are there, take the opportunity to look at some of the areas, and really consider how you feel about them.
It is really helpful to get an idea of what the surrounding areas are like.
If you are visiting schools, I wish you the best, and am sending you so much positive encouragement!
All my best,
Eleanor
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