This webinar offers strategies for low-income music students to manage higher education expenses, including budgeting, cost-saving, student loans, and loan forgiveness. Ideal for students, families, instructors, and program managers seeking guidance to navigate financial aid and minimize debt effectively.
The YOLA National Festival provides young musicians with free high-level orchestral training, chamber music, and performances under world-renowned conductors. Travel, lodging, meals, and programming are included. Participants join either the Symphony or Overture Orchestra based on age and skill.
Renowned faculty member Peter Slowik and admissions professional Fred Peterbark share insights on scholarships, financial aid negotiation, and student loans. This session supports prospective music students, families, instructors, and program managers preparing for college and navigating the financial aid process.
The Call for Kindness Fellowship offers a 12-month leadership development program, including a startup grant of up to $5,000, 1:1 coaching, virtual skill-building sessions, an in-person leadership retreat, mentorship opportunities, and a peer community of changemakers. Fellows will also have access to Continuation Grants for ongoing project support.
Interlochen Arts Camp offers world-renowned summer programs for young artists. El Sistema USA students can apply for merit-based and need-based financial aid, and all ESUSA applicants can apply for free using the fee waiver code ESUSA25. Financial aid is awarded on a rolling basis.
The Common Application for Summer Study, developed in partnership with Equity Arc and several top summer programs, allows eligible students to apply to multiple partner programs through a streamlined application and audition process. Each partner program offers at least one full-tuition fellowship, with additional financial support available based on resources. Students can autofill their application for other programs they are eligible for, and Equity Arc covers the application fee for all eligible students.
El Sistema USA and Equity Arc members should check their email or contact us for details about this virtual event.
This session empowers young musicians to succeed in collegiate and conservatory settings by teaching self-assessment, identifying assets and needs, and effective self-advocacy. Ideal for prospective students, families, instructors, program managers, and administrators supporting students’ musical journeys.
Meet the cohort and learn what to expect throughout the course.
Discover how to identify and compare college music programs to match your artistic and academic goals. Students and parents will explore what makes a school unique – degree offerings, faculty, facilities, location, and financial aid – and learn how to build a personalized college list to confidently take the next step in their musical journey.
Gain practical insight and resources for preparing compelling college applications, including writing standout essays and resumes and securing strong recommendation letters. Learn from admissions experts about how to highlight your strengths, manage multiple applications, and present your best self throughout the process.
Develop strategies and personalized tools to excel in your college auditions. Explore best practices for repertoire selection, practice planning, and live auditions, with guidance from collegiate faculty and insights from current college students.