FAQs for Music Applicants

The online music application will have a resume template which you can fill out, or you can create and upload your own document (such as a Word or PDF document). You should include the following information:

• Your private study for the past three years and principal and secondary instruments — include teachers’ names, dates of study, and repertoire studied and performed

• Large ensemble experiences in the past four years — include school, church, community and regional ensembles, and names of the conductors

• Chamber music experience and repertoire performed

• Musical honors or awards (including all-state ensembles, adjudicated contests, etc.)

• Other information that you feel is relevant to your application

Most students arrange information either chronologically or by subject. Your high school experiences are the most relevant.

Once you enter the online music application recommendation section, we will ask you to provide your teacher’s name and email address.  The online music application will then immediately send them a recommendation request via email,  which will provide them with a secure URL at which they can upload a recommendation directly to your online music application. You’ll receive a confirmation email when your teacher submits the recommendation online, so you know that we have received it.  If your teacher is unable to use this online method (i.e., they don’t have an email address) you may have them send their recommendation directly to us.

Vocalists should have a pianist unless they are performing a piece intended for unaccompanied solo voice. Instrumentalists are not required to have a pianist, but a well-prepared pianist can be a positive addition to your recording. Instrumentalists will not be marked down for playing without accompaniment.

We want you to make the most of your campus visit and start picturing yourself on the Hill as an Ole. As such, we do not offer in person audition opportunities. You are more than welcome to reach out to our music faculty directly for a sample lesson, however, because we know that relationship is an important part of your decision process. You can find all of our music faculty listed under their specialty here: https://wp.stolaf.edu/music/music-performance-studies/

On Mondays and Fridays during the academic year, there is also the opportunity to meet with current music students and learn more about Music at St. Olaf through the Admissions visit program. Learn more and register here: https://wp.stolaf.edu/admissions/visit/visit-connect/

If you’ve already begun your college application, the link will take you to your account management portal.  In order to start a new Music application, at the first dialog box (“Application Details”) click  CANCEL and then you’ll be able to access the “Start New Application” link beneath it. Click on the application year, then Music Scholarships, and you’ll be on your way.

Take piano lessons! Even if you’ve never taken lessons before, starting in your senior year of high school will help you prepare for theory and ear training classes, as well as the keyboard proficiency.