Music School

[MatthewSBassBone]

I’m going off to college next year to study Performance on Bass Bone. One issue, I don’t know where to go. I’m torn between Indiana University JSOM, and Depaul. On one hand, Charlie Vernon, the other, Dr. Pollard. One issue in Chicago where is lots of performance and great people are always in town, but the other has so much opportunity within the university. Has studied at either of these schools, anything they wish they did differently, or stuff they would never change. What are their teaching styles. I heard that at Indiana, undergrad students usually take their lessons with grad students, is that true for bass? I just need more details. I also plan to take a lesson with either before I have to commit at the end of April. Any advice or insight is greatly appreciated.

[TromboneConcerto]

My advice would be to send an email to the teachers of each school and ask them nicely to connect you with a current student. Once you have that, schedule a phone call with them with a list of questions ready. Or just send a long email with the questions. Best to hear from someone who is there studying now about how things are- some others' information is outdated.

You could also ask these questions directly to the profs.

100% take a lesson with them all- that's a must. You'll be spending 4 years with your teacher, it's a much more critical decision than you may think and can set the trajectory for the rest of your career. In my opinion, the most important aspect is the compatibility between the student and the teacher. So really be picky in this aspect if you can.

All the best.
Kyle

[tkelley216]

I can 100% say that Indiana undergrads only take from professors, not from grad students. Grad students only teach non-music majors.

I went to IU years ago for grad school. The music school is huge, many trombonists to compete with, but lots of playing and ensemble opportunities. Going to a big 10 university has perks as well such as being able to double major (or minor) in almost anything and having more traditional college experiences like football games. I went there thinking I'd miss out on professional concerts you would hear in bigger cities, but honestly I got my fill from listening to faculty ensembles and guest artists.

You should absolutely try to talk to current students. Some things you might want to ask about are how competitive/supportive the studio is with each other, whether lessons are in-person or virtual, how much the professor cares/is there, professional opportunities, how rigorous the academics are. You want to figure out the general vibe and make sure your teacher takes care of you for the next 4 years.

Lastly, don't be afraid to ask for more financial aid/scholarships before you accept. Both schools want you, both schools are going to have students turn down financial scholarships that could go to you. You can even mention your other scholarship offers, something like "I really want to go go to your school, but this other school is giving me more money, can you match it?". College is a huge financial burden and you will never have a better time to negotiate the price than you do right now....

[izMadman]

If you're drawn to big-city opportunities, DePaul puts you right in the middle of Chicago’s music scene, which can mean more gigs and networking. On the other hand, IU has a strong reputation and tons of resources within the school itself.

Definitely a good idea to take a lesson with both-teaching styles and overall vibe can make a huge difference. Also, if the undergrad/grad student lesson thing at IU is true for bass, that’s something to consider. Maybe reach out to current students and ask how they feel about it.

[Burgerbob]

Which one is cheaper?

[Posaunus]

Which one is cheaper?

Before or after financial aid?

[tbdana]

I’m just envious of people who get to go to music school. Wherever you go, make sure you take time to enjoy the privilege of immersing yourself in music studies for a few years. It will be one of the best times in your life.

[Kbiggs]

Which teacher do you believe will best help you achieve your musical goals?

If you have a chance to take a lesson with them prior to making the decision, that would help.

[WGWTR180]

Well I'd say apply and audition for several. You DO have to be accepted so in the end your choices may or may not be limited. Once you've been accepted THEN you might have some serious questions about where you should attend.

[harrisonreed]

Well I'd say apply and audition for several. You DO have to be accepted so in the end your choices may or may not be limited. Once you've been accepted THEN you might have some serious questions about where you should attend.

This ^

[Wilktone]

I did my masters in jazz studies at DePaul and I loved it there. I did not study from Charlie Vernon while I was there, however, mostly from Paul McKee with some other lessons from Ed Kocher. I have met Charlie and he's a great human being on top of being a great musician and teacher. You could do a lot worse.

I did not attend IU ever, but I've visited and also know many alumni who are excellent musicians. IU has an excellent reputation for music. I've never met Denson Paul Pollard personally, but he also has a great reputation.

You might find more outside gigging opportunities at DePaul, if you can get your foot in the door and get your name out. It's been a while since I lived in the Chicago area, however, so I'm not really aware of what the scene is like any longer. When I went to school in Indiana (Ball State University) there were outside playing opportunities too, but I generally had to drive further away to get to many. I imagine Bloomington, IN would be similar.

The nature each university will mean that you will have different experiences at both schools, so visiting in person and catching a lesson with your prospective teacher is important.

Dave

[SlideBye]

I am a grad student at IU and have been since 2022. It is unequivocally false that undergraduate music majors study with graduate students, at least since I have attended. Undergrad and grad music majors study with the studio faculty. That said, non-music majors can take elective music lessons which are with a grad student.

The advice shared by others here is very wise and actionable!

[JLivi]

Well I'd say apply and audition for several. You DO have to be accepted so in the end your choices may or may not be limited. Once you've been accepted THEN you might have some serious questions about where you should attend.

He’s applied and gotten accepted to both schools. OP is a senior in HS and plans to attend one of these schools next year.

Source: I’m his teacher

Personally I’m biased since I spent 6 years at DePaul and currently work for the university (director of Athletic Bands).

[WGWTR180]

Well I'd say apply and audition for several. You DO have to be accepted so in the end your choices may or may not be limited. Once you've been accepted THEN you might have some serious questions about where you should attend.

He’s applied and gotten accepted to both schools. OP is a senior in HS and plans to attend one of these schools next year.

Source: I’m his teacher

Personally I’m biased since I spent 6 years at DePaul and currently work for the university (director of Athletic Bands).

Well this is great! Too bad he didn't state that. Maybe he should also be relying on his teacher, you, for some real life answers to things like "I've heard that undergrad students study with grad students."
I realize he's a senior but.....

[JLivi]

He’s applied and gotten accepted to both schools. OP is a senior in HS and plans to attend one of these schools next year.

Source: I’m his teacher

Personally I’m biased since I spent 6 years at DePaul and currently work for the university (director of Athletic Bands).

Well this is great! Too bad he didn't state that. Maybe he should also be relying on his teacher, you, for some real life answers to things like "I've heard that undergrad students study with grad students."
I realize he's a senior but.....

Yeah I hear that. This is something we've discussed. I've been hesitant to reply to this post because I wanted him to get an organic response from the forum. I have more to add, but I'll save it for Matthew's lesson tomorrow.

[WGWTR180]

Well this is great! Too bad he didn't state that. Maybe he should also be relying on his teacher, you, for some real life answers to things like "I've heard that undergrad students study with grad students."
I realize he's a senior but.....

Yeah I hear that. This is something we've discussed. I've been hesitant to reply to this post because I wanted him to get an organic response from the forum. I have more to add, but I'll save it for Matthew's lesson tomorrow.

I wish him all the best! Congratulations to him for being accepted into 2 wonderful choices. I remember those years!!!

[harrisonreed]

Wow, good job, OP!