How can one get a choir scholarship for college?

I've been in the school choir since freshman year and was wondering if there are scholarships available specifically for choir or vocal students. What do scholarship committees usually look for?

Certainly! Choir or vocal scholarships are indeed available at many colleges, and they can be a great way to help fund your education. There are also numerous external organizations that offer scholarships for talented vocalists. Here are a few steps to consider:

1. Research Schools with Vocal Scholarships: Start by identifying which colleges offer scholarships in the music or choir departments. Some schools even offer specific scholarships just for vocalists.

2. Understand Scholarship Requirements: Look into the specifics of what each scholarship requires. Many will require an audition, and some may also need letters of recommendation, especially from your choir director or vocal coach. You might also need to fill out an application form or share details of your choir experience.

3. Prepare for Auditions: In most cases, you'll need to audition to be considered for a vocal scholarship. You should choose a piece that you can perform well, that shows off your range and style, and that you enjoy singing. You might also want to get an accompanist or a backing track, depending on the audition's requirements.

4. Showcase Your Commitment: Aside from the audition, committees look for applicants who show dedication to their craft. Include in your application your experience in choir, any solos or positions of responsibility you've held (like section leader or president), and any extra trainings or competitions you've participated in. This can help show the committee that you're serious about your craft.

5. Apply to External Scholarships: In addition to school-specific scholarships, there are also organizations that offer national or regional vocal scholarships, like the Schmidt Vocal Arts Scholarship or the National YoungArts Foundation. These often have different requirements and may demand a higher level of performance.

Remember that most of these scholarships are competitive, so make sure you're adequately prepared and give it your best shot!