If I were to major in Violin Performance in California, what UC's and cal states would be my best choice?

Question

I have played violin for 7 years now, I am passionate about playing the violin and want to pursue it in the future. I am considering UCLA but academically, I think the chances of getting in are slim (since after pre-screening and auditioning, you have to go through uc administration). I've heard UCI has an okay music program as well, but I don't know much about Cal States. Any suggestions?

Answer 1

You shouldn't apply to any school, cold;  what you should do is talk to the teacher first.  They are deciding factors, more important than grades, test scores, or a cold audition before people, none of whom know you.

See:

Issues in Choice of Undergraduate Programs

http://beststudentviolins.com/AuditionsG...

UCLA is really not a good choice of music school in California, in my opinion.  You should look instead at:

San Francisco Conservatory

USC  (the "Julliard of the West")

UC Berkeley (if you're into musicology rather than performance)

Stanford (they have tons of financial aid, if you get in)

UC San Diego

good luck!