By Erin Chang
For Danielle Adcock, music was never just a hobby—it was part of who she was from a very young age; it was “her thing”. Growing up, Danielle studied both voice and piano before eventually discovering her passion for the bassoon; as she got older, her commitment deepened through participation in youth symphony programs, private study, and prestigious summer music programs across the country, including ones at the Manhattan School of Music, USC Thornton, Interlochen, and Boston University’s Tanglewood Institute. Today, Danielle is thriving as a bassoon performance major at Peabody Conservatory, and her father, Chris Adcock, credits much of their successful admissions journey to the guidance and support they received from Inside Music Schools (IMS).
Facing the Unknown
As the youngest of three children, Danielle was the first in her family to pursue music professionally. While her family was eager to support her goals, her father quickly realized that the music admissions process was unlike the traditional college admissions process. “I started researching auditions and what the application process would be like, but I honestly didn’t know what to do,” he recalls. “I was Googling everything and trying to find someone who really understood music admissions.”
The family wasn’t looking for someone to make unrealistic promises or sell them a dream—instead, they sought experienced advisors who would provide honest feedback, clear expectations, and practical guidance. “We wanted someone down-to-earth who could explain exactly what needed to happen and when,” Chris says. They connected with IMS during Danielle’s sophomore year of high school, giving them ample time to prepare for what would become a highly competitive admissions process.
A Personalized Approach to Music Admissions
From the beginning, Danielle’s family appreciated IMS’s individualized approach. Rather than steering her toward specific schools or predetermined paths, IMS focused on understanding her goals and helping her build a plan that aligned with her interests. IMS also helped the family research programs nationwide, identify schools that matched Danielle’s aspirations, and categorize them into reach, target, and safety options.
As Danielle explored her options, IMS encouraged her to connect directly with faculty, arrange trial lessons, visit campuses, and continue to strengthen her musical experience through additional summer programs. “They really got to know Danielle as a person,” her father says. “Nothing felt cookie-cutter; everything was specifically tailored to her.”
Throughout the process, IMS provided support with:
- School selection and admissions strategy
- Mock auditions and interview preparation
- Resume development and refinement
- Personal statement and essay editing
- Guidance for prescreening video submissions
- Financial aid and scholarship discussions
- Ongoing meetings and personalized feedback
Most importantly, Danielle’s family never felt pressured. “They don’t push you in any direction,” her father explains. “They give you information, help you understand your options, and let you make the decision that’s right for you.”
Outstanding Results
With IMS’s guidance, Danielle explored a variety of programs across the country, and the results were incredibly impressive: she received acceptance offers from Peabody Conservatory, Berklee College of Music, Boston Conservatory, Bard College Conservatory, Cleveland Institute of Music, UMass, and The Hartt School. After carefully evaluating her options, Danielle chose Peabody Conservatory for its generous scholarship package, a strong connection with her bassoon professor and studio, a welcoming campus environment, and exciting opportunities to partake in innovative projects.
“She felt like there were so many opportunities to grow there,” her father says. “The school is always trying to improve its program and curriculum, as well as create new opportunities for students, and that really excites and motivates her.”
After completing her first year, Danielle has found Peabody to be an excellent fit. In addition to her bassoon studies, she remains actively involved in singing through the choir and hopes to pursue a voice minor. Her father remarked that she has settled into the program well and continues to thrive both musically and personally.
Advice for Future Music Students and Families
Reflecting on their experience, Danielle’s father has simple but valuable advice for future students: “Be honest with Steve and Karen. Tell them what you really think and want—not what you think they want to hear. If you’re honest about your goals and what you’re looking for, they’ll help guide you toward the programs that fit you best.”
For parents, he emphasizes the importance of starting early, saying, “I would encourage families to begin before junior year if possible; starting during their sophomore year is ideal because it gives students time to build their resume, gain experience, and properly prepare.” He also encourages families not to let concerns about cost prevent them from having a conversation. “Be upfront about your concerns and don’t be afraid to ask questions. They’re very understanding and willing to work with families.”
A Partner Every Step of the Way
When asked what stood out most about working with IMS, Chris Adcock doesn’t mention acceptances or scholarships first; instead, he talks about the people. “Steve and Karen make both students and parents feel comfortable – they’re accommodating, available, flexible, and with you every step of the way. There was never any pressure or added stress.”
For Danielle’s family, the experience was about much more than getting into a music school. It was about finding the right environment for her growth as a musician and a person, and thanks to thoughtful planning, expert guidance, and a highly personalized approach, Danielle found exactly what she needed.
Erin Chang
Erin Chang is a mezzo-soprano currently pursuing doctoral studies at Indiana University. She completed her Masters of Music at Manhattan School of Music and her Bachelor of Music Education at Rutgers University. She has performed with the MSM Graduate Opera Theater, opera scenes, choruses, and various chamber ensembles, as well as with Chicago Summer Opera. Although Erin is primarily a vocalist, she is also a solo pianist and accompanist, having performed with various choirs and churches, and is a Steinway Educational Partner. In addition to performing, Erin is passionate about teaching and has taught voice, piano, and music theory lessons.