Which instrument should I learn for college scholarship opportunities?

I'm thinking of learning a new instrument to boost my chances for college scholarships. Are there certain instruments that are more favored for scholarships, or does it depend on the college?

The choice of musical instrument won't directly impact scholarship chances unless you're specifically applying for music-related scholarships. Many music scholarships are offered on the basis of musical talent and academic achievement, rather than on the type of instrument you play. The quality of your performance, your dedication to the instrument, and your ability to effectively showcase your talent are what matter most.

However, it’s generally known that there is less competition for certain instruments, simply because they are less commonly played. Instruments such as the bassoon, oboe, tuba, harp and viola tend to have fewer players, so if you excel in these areas, you may face less competition for scholarships.

This doesn't mean you should necessarily choose these less common instruments. Passion and commitment are crucial. Choose an instrument that you love and that you're willing to spend countless hours practicing. This will not only enhance your performance, but colleges and scholarship committees want to see passion and dedication, and your enthusiasm for an instrument will show in your playing.

It's best to research scholarships offered by the colleges you're interested in, as well as national and local musical organizations, to see what kind of instrument-specific scholarships are available.

In general, the more proficient you are at your instrument, regardless of what it is, the better your chances of being awarded a scholarship. So make sure you enjoy playing whatever instrument you choose, because you'll be spending a lot of time with it!