How do I get a band scholarship for college?

I'm passionate about band and am considering applying for a scholarship to help with college tuition. I'm currently a junior and participate in my school's band and orchestra, I've also been taking private lessons for a few years. What steps should I take to make myself a strong candidate for a band scholarship? Should I focus on specific competitions, performances, or maybe leadership positions in the band? Also, are there any resources you would recommend to help with finding and applying for band scholarships? Thanks in advance for any advice!

The first step in securing a band scholarship is building a strong music portfolio to showcase your talents and dedication. This can include recordings of your performances both solo and within your school band, footage from competitions, or a listing of any music-related honors or awards you've received.

Taking on a leadership role within your band or orchestra can also be advantageous, as it not only shows consistency and commitment but also sharpens your teamwork and leadership skills – qualities desirable to many scholarship granters.

Competitions are a good way to get noticed and expand your music network, but you should also consider participating in non-competitive events that demonstrate your passion for music and your willingness to give back to the community. This could be volunteering to perform at community events, fundraising for musical causes, or offering free music lessons to younger children.

For finding and applying for band scholarships, I would recommend starting with your school's financial aid office or your band director. They should have the most updated information about the scholarships available for instrumental music students. Consider looking at websites of professional musician associations or music education organizations as well – they often sponsor scholarships for young musicians.

Next, reach out directly to the music departments of the colleges you are thinking about applying to. Many colleges and universities offer scholarships that are specific to their students, and often these scholarships aren't publicized widely or could have additional eligibility criteria.

And finally, cast a wide net. Apply to as many scholarships as you can and don't overlook smaller awards—they can add up. Be mindful of the deadlines and make sure your application materials are polished and error-free. Good luck!