Music scholarship - piano?

[Atissue123]

Has anyone ever been offered a music scholarship with their main instrument as piano?

DC1 is working at grade 5 piano (distinction at grade 4), at grade 3 on guitar (but playing up to grade 5-6), grade 2 clarinet (started this year). And also sings but just in a choir so no grades etc. Just wondering if it’s worth applying or not? The guidance says grade 4 upwards so that is okay however I’m not sure that piano would stand them in good stead? In year 6 currently.

School is not hugely competitive but the music scholarship is!

DC was at Grade 4 piano, Grade 2 clarinet and on this basis alone could have applied for a music scholarship at their senior school. What’s more important IMO is their dedication, because receiving a musical scholarship means a lot could be expected of them in terms of music extra-curricular. At DC’s school this includes orchestra practice (a straight 1:45 hours after school) occasional Sundays where they have music days with guest conductors etc, (they already have to attend matches on Saturdays), international tours, not to mention they will still have to find time for their instrumental lessons and practice.

So if your DC is up for all that, then it sounds as though they are definitely in the zone to apply for a musical scholarship!

Thanks, yes definitely up for that, she lives and breathes it, practices hours a day some days. And thankfully not sporty so at least I know she won’t be keen on those weekend fixtures! Sounds like it’s worth us applying.

Lots of good wishes for her music scholarship application🤞🏻. You probably know this already, but weekend matches may well be an expectation until at least year 9.

No harm in applying but they’re often not worth a lot but there will be usually be free lessons in addition. Piano is usually very competitive as there are lots of very good pianists at this age. Schools are quite keen to attract more unusual instruments for the orchestras; oboe, cello etc. All depends on the school though and how generous they are and what your local competition is. Our experience is of the London market.

Definitely worth applying. DS had G5 piano and G3 on another intstrument. He later dropped his second instrument, took up two others during his time there, and left with two ABRSM diplomas.

I would imagine there will be plenty of others at that level applying-so you do need fallback options….

Sorry yes should have said it’s 25% off fees plus free tuition on one instrument so will definitely be competitive! But we are not in London. No sports is expected on a Saturday thankfully. Unless you are on a team, we know a few children already there (without the scholarship obviously). But team sports are optional (but encouraged). But I know already as she doesn’t play hockey or netball she won’t be selected. She is into gymnastics and dance which is all after school club but music is her priority above all of that. Will keep you posted if she even gets an audition. Apparently they usually get approx 30 applicants for 3 scholarships.