What to Include in the Activities Description
Your 150-character description should cover: instrument, years of study, ensemble level and role, and a notable achievement. Example: "Violin, 12 years; principal second chair, regional youth orchestra; performed at Carnegie Hall; grade 8 ABRSM distinction." This description communicates serious training, achievement, and recognition in three beats.
School Band vs. Serious Musical Training
Admissions officers distinguish between general school music participation and deep, ongoing musical training. If you've studied privately for many years, reached an advanced technical level, participated in competitive auditions, or performed in selective ensembles, these details distinguish you from the many applicants who simply participated in school band.
Multiple Instruments or Music Roles
If you play multiple instruments, list your primary one as the main activities entry and briefly note additional instruments in the description or in a second entry if the second instrument also represents serious commitment. If you both perform and compose, note this — composition is a distinct and often more rare skill.
The Music Supplement
Some colleges accept optional arts supplements, including audio or video recordings. A supplement is worth preparing if: you are applying to a school with a strong music program, your playing is at an exceptional level, or music is central to your application identity. Check each school's application portal for whether they accept music supplements and in what format.
Music Theory and Production
If you have formal music theory training (AP Music Theory, conservatory theory courses) or produce music digitally, these are distinct skills from performance and worth noting — particularly if you're applying to programs in music technology, audio engineering, or composition.