Many music programs do offer merit/talent scholarships. These scholarships are given based on actual merit and documented accomplishment. Don’t assume that just because you are studying music, that you will win a scholarship. Schools give scholarships to recruit needed talent into their programs and/or award the best incoming students. Colleges may need, say, fifteen violinists, a harpist, five bass vocalists, and a bassoon player in a particular year. Those students meeting this criteria will get the first scholarships in order for the school to round out its program. Earning one of these scholarships also comes with the expectation that you will continue to perform to the highest standards, and that you will “work” for the University by performing in the ensembles, for events, and promote the school. Don’t think of the money as free money. This is your job at college. If you don’t foresee yourself practicing and improving the school’s music program, this is not the way to pay for college. The school and the school’s students are depending upon you if you take this money.
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