Can You Submit Songs on the Common App? The Ultimate Guide to Music Portfolios
So, you’ve been practicing your scales for years, your fingers dance across the piano keys like a seasoned pro, and you’ve got a voice that could melt butter. You’re ready to show the world your musical talents, but there’s just one problem: the Common App. Can you actually submit songs on the Common App?
The answer, my musical friend, is a resounding maybe.
The Common App, that majestic beast of college applications, is designed to gather your basic information, academic transcripts, and essays. It’s a one-stop shop for your academic awesomeness, but when it comes to showcasing your artistic talents, it’s a bit of a party pooper.
The “Maybe” Explained
Think of the Common App as a standard application form. While it collects vital information, it’s not designed to hold your entire musical repertoire. You’ll need to tap into a secondary platform, a gateway to your musical soul—SlideRoom.
SlideRoom: The Musical Gateway
SlideRoom is an online platform that many colleges use to manage supplemental materials, including music portfolios. Think of it as the backstage pass to your musical audition.
Here’s how it works:
- Submit Your Common App: First, you need to submit your Common App application with all the usual suspects: your transcripts, essays, and the like.
- The Portfolio Link: Once you’re done, you’ll receive a link to your applicant portal. This is where the magic happens.
- The “Digital Portfolio” Tab: Within your portal, you’ll find a “Digital Portfolio” tab. This is your backstage pass to SlideRoom.
- Choose Your Category: Click on the “Digital Portfolio” tab, and you’ll be whisked away to a drop-down menu where you can choose the appropriate category for your musical portfolio.
- Upload Your Masterpieces: Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for—upload your musical creations! You can upload audio recordings, video performances, or even sheet music.
Should You Submit a Music Supplement? The Big Question
Now, here’s the million-dollar question: Should you even bother with a music supplement?
The answer is: It depends.
If You’re a Music Major Wannabe: If your dream is to major in music, a strong music portfolio can be your golden ticket. It’s your chance to show admissions officers that you’re not just playing around—you’re serious about music.
If You’re a Casual Musician: If you play music for fun and it’s not your intended major, a supplement might not be worth the effort. You could end up sending mixed signals to admissions officers, especially if your music isn’t at a professional level. It’s better to focus on your academic strengths.
The Fine Print
Before you start uploading your entire discography, remember that different colleges have different requirements. Check each college’s website for specific instructions and deadlines. Some schools might have their own submission process, so don’t assume SlideRoom is the universal answer.
The “Music Supplement” Dilemma
Submitting a music supplement can be a double-edged sword. While it can showcase your passion and skills, it can also hurt your application if your music isn’t up to par. You’re basically saying, “Judge me on my music!” So, make sure your music is your best representation.
Tips for a Stellar Music Portfolio
- Quality Over Quantity: Focus on quality, not quantity. Choose your best performances.
- Clear and Professional: Make sure your recordings are clear and professional. No scratchy audio or shaky camera angles.
- Variety is the Spice of Life: Show off your versatility by including a variety of pieces.
- Keep It Short and Sweet: No one wants to listen to a 20-minute epic. Keep your submissions concise.
- Don’t Forget the Cover Letter: Write a brief cover letter explaining your musical journey and what you hope to achieve.
The Bottom Line
Submitting a music portfolio can be a great way to showcase your talents and stand out from the crowd. But, like all things in life, proceed with caution. Make sure your music is your best work and that it aligns with your academic goals.
Need More Help? Connect With Us!
If you’re still lost in the world of music portfolios and Common App submissions, don’t despair! The JobLoving community is here to help. We’ve got a team of expert mentors who can guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have.
So, unleash your inner musical genius and let your music do the talking!