Photo Credit: © ECoSistema
This Fall, Equity Arc and El Sistema USA are launching a virtual series entitled College Access for Young Musicians designed to expand collegiate access.
While many young musicians navigate their early training and college audition process with the help of a private teacher or support from a youth music training program, many families face this process in isolation, making challenging decisions about which schools to apply to.
Register for our upcoming sessions to gain all the insights you need for a successful transition to higher education.
Upcoming Events
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Virtual College Fair & Finding the Best Fit
October 8 @ 6:30 pm - 9:00 pmConnect with a variety of colleges and conservatories across the country and learn how to find a music school that is the “best fit” for you. This session will help you determine what aspects to consider when applying to college and show you how to identify schools that meet your criteria.Who is this session for? This session is targeted towards prospective music students and families seeking to begin their college preparation process. This session will also be beneficial for private instructors and program managers who are supporting their students’ musical journey.This session is free to all attendees.
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Optimizing Your College Application & Audition
November 12 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pmThis session will help you refine the non-musical aspects of your college application and audition. Hear tips to optimize your pre-screening recording, college essay, interview, and audition skills.Who is this session for? This session is targeted towards prospective music students and families seeking to begin their college preparation process. This session will also be beneficial for private instructors and program managers who are supporting their students’ musical journey.Registration is free for Equity Arc and El Sistema USA members, and $35 for non-members.Learn more about Equity Arc membership | Learn more about El Sistema USA membership
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Navigating College & Audition Process with Undocumented Parents
December 3 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pmThis session addresses the unique challenges faced by students with undocumented parents as they navigate the college admissions and audition process. Hear practical advice on how to handle specific situations, seek support, and utilize available resources specifically for students with undocumented parents.Who is this session for? This session is targeted towards prospective music students and families with undocumented parents. This session will also be beneficial for private instructors and program managers who seek guidance in this area. Spanish translation will be provided.
Registration is free for Equity Arc and El Sistema USA members, and $35 for non-members.
Learn more about Equity Arc membership | Learn more about El Sistema USA membership
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Higher-Education Financial Planning for Low-Income Families
February 11 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pmDo you want to minimize debt and increase scholarship and financial aid resources? This webinar offers strategies to help music students from low-income backgrounds manage higher education expenses effectively. Learn how to create realistic budgets, explore cost-saving opportunities, and compare commuting versus off-campus housing options. The session will also help you understand student loans, loan forgiveness programs, and alternatives such as part-time work and co-op programs. Participants will be prepared to navigate financial aid, manage budgets effectively, and minimize student debt.Who is this session for? This session is targeted towards prospective music students and families from low-income backgrounds. This session will also be beneficial for private instructors and program managers who seek guidance in this area.Registration is free for Equity Arc and El Sistema USA members, and $35 for non-members.
Learn more about Equity Arc membership | Learn more about El Sistema USA membership
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Navigating the Financial Aid & Appeals Process
March 4 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pmGet the inside scoop from renowned faculty member Peter Slowik and accomplished admissions professional Fred Peterbark on the financial aid process. Learn how to identify scholarships, negotiate your financial aid package, navigate student loans to access the school of your choice.Who is this session for? This session is targeted towards prospective music students and families seeking to begin their college preparation process. This session will also be beneficial for private instructors and program managers who are supporting their students’ musical journey.Registration is free for Equity Arc and El Sistema USA members, and $35 for non-members.
Learn more about Equity Arc membership | Learn more about El Sistema USA membership
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Empowering Your Voice & Developing Self-Advocacy in Higher Education Spaces
May 6 @ 7:00 pm - 8:00 pmThis session aims to empower young musicians to find and use their voice effectively in collegiate and conservatory environments. Attendees will learn tools for success, including how to assess their landscape, identify their assets and evaluate their needs, and advocate for themselves in academic and pre-professional settings.Who is this session for? This session is targeted towards prospective music students and families seeking to begin their college preparation process. This session will also be beneficial for private instructors, program managers, and collegiate administrators who are supporting their students’ musical journey.Registration is free for Equity Arc and El Sistema USA members, and $35 for non-members.
Learn more about Equity Arc membership | Learn more about El Sistema USA membership