Applicants to the college who wish to have their musical accomplishments considered in the admissions process should include a labeled CD, VHS videotape, or cassette tape of their performances and/or compositions with their application. Please fill out the Bates College Optional Arts Form and send it with your labeled materials. If you would like the materials to be returned to you, please enclose a self-addressed and postage pre-paid envelope.

Performance in solo and/or small group contexts is best; include recordings of large groups only if you have a solo part that can be clearly heard and identified. These recordings should not be long; two contrasting selections that demonstrate tone quality, technique, intonation, and musicality are plenty.

If you compose, your recording may include compositions of your own along with other performances or may consist entirely of your own compositions.

Be sure materials are clearly labeled with your name and instrument or vocal range, the names of your collaborators, and the titles and composers of the music you perform.  A strong recording can definitely help you in admissions consideration.