Colleges and Universities Need Oboists and Bassoonists

For students who excel at playing the oboe or bassoon, these unique talents can open doors to college admissions, scholarships, and academic opportunities. Whether you’re considering a full music degree, a minor, or just want to keep music in your life while pursuing another field, your double reed skills can be a significant asset.

Why Colleges and Universities Need Oboists and Bassoonists

1. Demand for Double Reed Players:
   • Oboes and bassoons are essential in orchestras, wind ensembles, and chamber groups, but fewer students play these instruments compared to more common ones like flute or clarinet.
   • College music programs are always looking for talented double reed players to fill these critical spots.
2. Opportunities for Scholarships:
   • Many colleges offer scholarships specifically for oboists and bassoonists, even if you’re not planning to major in music.
   • These scholarships can make a significant difference in funding your education.
3. Smaller Competition Pools:
   • Compared to other instrumentalists, oboe and bassoon players often face less competition, making it easier to stand out during the admissions process.

Paths to Study Music in College

1. Music Major or Minor:
   • Music Major: Pursuing a degree in music means diving deep into your craft with courses in performance, theory, history, and more.
   • Music Minor: A music minor allows you to continue playing and studying music while focusing your main studies on another field.
2. Secondary Major:
   • Some students choose to double major, combining music with another field like science, business, or humanities. This path is demanding but can provide a well-rounded education.
3. Participating Without Majoring:
   • Even if you don’t major or minor in music, many colleges allow students to participate in ensembles, take private lessons, or enroll in music courses. This option keeps music in your life without the commitment of a music degree.

The Reality of Conservatories and Music as a Profession

1. Conservatories:
   • Admission to top conservatories like Juilliard, Curtis, or Eastman is highly competitive, requiring exceptional talent and dedication.
   • Students must prepare rigorous audition materials and demonstrate a deep commitment to music.
2. Music as a Career:
   • A career in music is challenging, with intense competition for jobs in orchestras, teaching, or as a soloist.
   • It demands continuous practice, resilience, and a willingness to navigate the ups and downs of a highly competitive field.

Noteworthy Music Programs Across the U.S.

If you’re interested in studying music, either as a major, minor, or as an extracurricular pursuit, here are some colleges and universities to consider. This information is current as of September, 2024:

1. University of Michigan – School of Music, Theatre & Dance
   • Department Head: Aaron Berofsky
   • Contact: aberofsk@umich.edu
   • Music Minor Program: Offers a flexible minor with opportunities to study performance, theory, and history.
2. Indiana University Jacobs School of Music
   • Department Head: Gwyn Richards
   • Contact: gwyricha@indiana.edu
   • Music Minor Program: A robust program allowing students to engage in high-level music study while pursuing another major.
3. University of Southern California Thornton School of Music
   • Department Head: Robert Cutietta
   • Contact: cutietta@usc.edu
   • Music Minor Program: Offers several minors, including popular music, jazz studies, and music industry.
4. Northwestern University Bienen School of Music
   • Department Head: Toni-Marie Montgomery
   • Contact: tmontgomery@northwestern.edu
   • Music Minor Program: Allows students to combine music studies with any other major at the university.
5. Oberlin College and Conservatory
   • Department Head: William Quillen
   • Contact: wquillen@oberlin.edu
   • Music Minor Program: While more focused on conservatory-level training, Oberlin offers opportunities for non-majors to participate in music.

How to Make the Most of Your Music Skills in College

• Stay Connected: Join ensembles, take lessons, and participate in music-related activities on campus, even if you’re not a music major.
• Explore Opportunities: Look into scholarships and financial aid options specifically for double reed players.
• Talk to Professors: Reach out to music department heads and professors to learn more about the programs and how they can accommodate your interests.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re aiming for a conservatory or simply want to keep playing while pursuing another major, your oboe or bassoon skills can play a significant role in your college journey. Remember, this guide is just a starting point—be sure to discuss your options with your teachers, friends, and family to find the path that’s right for you.