Here we are. End of March, first of April. This is when universities release acceptance/rejection letters and scholarship offers. Over the past three Springs I have worked with one senior each year. Parents, students and I discuss recommended programs that will continue to challenge the student and help develop their artistry. We prepare audition material. I write recommendation letters and help record supplemental content for their applications.
In each of the three years these seniors took on these tasks with enthusiasm and energy. They did not let the additional work get in the way of their continued development. Preparing music and performing the auditions helped each of them become a stronger musician.
I learned this morning that Jody M., this year’s Senior, has been accepted into Berklee College of Music (my Alma Mater) and offered a four-year full tuition scholarship. He studies classical violin with an excellent teacher, and works with me on contemporary harmony and jazz improvisation. He was also accepted by UNC Greensboro and East Tennessee State University. Each of these schools has an outstanding contemporary music program as well.
Once we completed work on Jody’s application and audition material we took time to evaluate the past months’ work and think about new goals. It would have been easy for Jody to say, “I have worked hard and accomplished what I set out to do. Can I coast a few weeks and enjoy the end of my Senior year?” In fact, he did not consider that. Jody feels he needs to solidify his understanding of chord progressions, learn essential jazz tunes, and listen to historic jazz heroes between now and when he leaves for school.
We listed tunes that we will work on between now and mid-August. The plan is to listen to versions of the tunes recorded by jazz masters, learn the melodies by ear, analyze the chord progressions, and learn to improvise over the changes. I am sure Jody will transcribe improvised solos that catch his attention as well.
I have written that students often teach me. Jody’s hunger for learning and constant work toward his goals is an inspiration. We can all take a lesson from Jody, for sure.