Best Instruments for College Scholarships?

I'm currently in band and play multiple instruments. As I start preparing for college applications, I'm curious about which instruments might increase my chances of getting a college scholarship. Any advice or experiences to share?

If you excel at a less common instrument, that may give you an advantage when it comes to college scholarships, as many colleges and universities want a varied and balanced orchestra, band, or other musical groups. For example, bassoonists, oboists, and tuba players tend to be less common, so there can be more scholarship opportunities for these instrumentalists.

However, it's not just about choosing the "right" instrument but also about your level of excellence and commitment to it. It's not necessarily beneficial to switch to an instrument you're not passionate about just for the sake of getting a scholarship. Superior artistry, no matter what your instrument, can be a powerful factor in securing music scholarships.

Finally, take into consideration that many music scholarships are instrument-agnostic. They are awarded based on your overall musical skills, talent, and dedication to music, not just the instrument you play. For example, the Davidson Fellow Scholarship is given to students who have achieved significant accomplishments in many fields, including music, irrespective of the instrument.

Moreover, scholarships can often come from places other than colleges. Local community organizations, philanthropic foundations, and music-focused entities often provide scholarships for promising young musicians.

So, while the instrument choice might play a role, your skill level, dedication, and the depth of your passion for music are the most important factors. Focus on building your musicianship and mastering your chosen instrument(s). Try to gain performance experience and involve yourself in as many music-related activities as you can to show your commitment. This will increase your chances of scholarship opportunities much more than simply playing a less common instrument.