 
Collegiate Access for Young Musicians: Orientation Session
Meet the cohort and learn what to expect throughout the course.
 
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.
 
Understand essential strategies for managing the financial side of college, from identifying and applying for scholarships to navigating the financial aid process. Hear from financial aid experts and parents who’ve been through the process, and learn how to plan effectively, negotiate scholarships, and make a strong case for support.
 
Connect directly with representatives from leading conservatories and schools of music in this culminating event. Learn what makes each participating institution unique and apply what you’ve learned throughout the series while engaging with admissions representatives and faculty from your schools of interest.
 
Open to all El Sistema USA Members: During the annual meeting, we will provide updates on member benefits and programming from 2026-27. We’ll also share plans for 2027–2028, updates from Board Committees, a financial overview, and ways to get involved. We look forward to your participation!