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Insight on music and music education

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Using Social Media to Launch Your Music Brand

Most music students today are digital natives—navigating social media platforms with ease, creativity, and style. At Inside Music Schools, we see that as an incredible advantage. Socials aren’t just for fun—they’re a powerful tool to showcase your talent, tell your story, and connect with the broader music community.
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Does Early Action Increase My Chances of Acceptance?

In the ultra-competitive world of music college admissions, timing can be everything. Some students hope that applying early will give them a leg up in the process, increasing their odds of acceptance. But does Early Action (or Early Decision) really make a difference for music programs—and should you go for it?
How to stand out in music school applications and interviews

Scholarship Questions: What Music Majors Need to Know to Stand Out

College is expensive. Music school can be even more so — with added costs for lessons, instruments, competitions, and travel. For students pursuing a career in music, scholarships aren’t optional; they’re essential.
Finding your right fit in the music industry.

Do You Need to Specialize? Finding Your Place in the Music Industry

There are a multitude of stories, biographies, articles, documentaries, and other forms of media that detail musicians who are considered “hyphenates.” What does it mean to be a multi-hyphenate musician?
Financial Aid appeal letter puzzle

How to Write a Financial Aid Appeal Letter for Music School

Paying for college has always been a concern. Whether you’re headed to a conservatory, a large public university, or an out-of-state music school, the rising cost of education can feel like a barrier to pursuing your dreams.
A student sits next to an interviewer at a table.

Simulated Interviews: A Key to College Music Interview Success

Fifteen to twenty minutes. That’s the typical amount of time any aspiring music major has to help admissions interviewers determine if they are a good fit for their college and their music program. In that short window, students must articulate their passion, convey their musical identity, and demonstrate how they will contribute to the program.
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A Guide to the Best Colleges in California for Music

Mild climate, natural beauty with varied landscapes, access to top-notch cultural activities, a diverse population, and wonderful educational opportunities all make California a very desirable location for many college students. Some of the nation’s finest music schools can be found throughout the state, from San Francisco in the north to San Diego in the south. If you’re dreaming about studying music on the West Coast, here are some schools and programs to explore as you build your college list.
A stressed looking college student is looking at and holding a giant analog clock in one hand.

Time Management Strategies in the College Application Season

Time management is crucial during the college application process because students must balance their current academic workload, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities while ensuring they meet important application deadlines.
A chalkboard sign that says "college majors."

Is a Double Major Worth It? Part 2

For students passionate about music but also drawn to other academic interests, a double major can be an exciting way to explore multiple fields while broadening career opportunities. Balancing two majors, however, requires dedication and careful planning in order to develop diverse skills and deepen their expertise without significantly extending their time in school.
A student's red sneakers are on the ground with arrow surrounding them.

Balancing Passion and Practicality with a Double Major, Part 1

For students passionate about music, the decision to pursue a degree in the field is an exciting one. However, some students may also have other academic interests or career aspirations beyond music. In these cases, a double major can be a great way to explore multiple passions, develop diverse skills, and expand career opportunities.
The exterior of the Manhattan School of Music.

Manhattan School of Music: A Launchpad for Aspiring Musicians

Nestled in a cozy, collegiate, and green enclave in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, New York, the Manhattan School of Music (MSM) attracts some of the best talent to its classrooms, rehearsal and recital halls.
A large group of people are standing together engaged in conversation.

Networking in College: Building Connections for Music Career Success

Students who network early in their music education — even in high school — are often more successful later in their careers. Whether students consider themselves introverts, extroverts, or somewhere in between, networking in college is absolutely essential.