Here you will find the answers to some of the Music Department's most frequently asked questions. If your questions are not answered here, please contact Carole Engel, e-mail Music@Carleton.edu, call ext. 4347, or contact the current Student Departmental Advisers.

How do I register for applied music lessons?

Registering for applied music lessons is a two-step process. First, register for lessons the way you would for any other class. 100-level courses entail nine half-hour lessons for two credits. 200-level courses entail nine one-hour lessons for four credits. Note: Permission of the instructor is required for registration for four credit lessons. Second, fill out a class schedule form, available on the Applied Music page or in the lobby of the Music Hall. It's important that you mark all your weekly classes and conflicts, including work and extracurricular activities. Finally, return the form to the Music Hall lobby! This form is needed so that your lesson time doesn't conflict with your schedule.

During the first week of the term, you'll receive a notice of your lesson day, time and instructor in your campus mailbox or via email. Lessons usually begin the first week of the term. If your schedule has changed and you need to move your lesson, please consult your instructor. In some cases, you'll be asked to sign up for a lesson time yourself. In that case, your instructor will contact you and give you the details.

For some applied music lessons, such as voice and piano, an initial audition may be required. Students of all levels are encouraged to study privately at Carleton, but the audition is useful for the voice and piano faculty to assign you to an instructor and get a feel for your level of experience. For other popular instruments, a wait-list may be in effect. You'll be contacted by the Department or the instructor with more information if this is the case.

I'm a beginner and haven't studied any voice or instrument. Can I still take lessons?

Absolutely. All you need to do is register for any two-credit applied music course.

Can I still register for music lessons if I'm also registered for three 6-credit classes?

Absolutely. You are allowed to register for two-credit or four-credit (with instructor permission) lessons in addition to three six-credit classes, regardless of class year.

If one of my three 6-credit classes is a Music course, can I still register for lessons?

Absolutely. Many students taking music lessons, in addition to their three six-credit courses, also participate in an ensemble.

How do I apply for financial aid for music lessons?

To apply for financial aid, sign up using the forms in the Music Hall lobby after registering for lessons. The form is also available in the Office of Student Financial Services and can be found online on the Music Lessons page.

I need access to a locked room or cabinet. How do I get it?

Please consult the table below for access information. Keys that are automatically granted for students in a particular course can be picked up at the Facilities Office, after the student receives a notice to pick up the key. Questions about these policies (including possible exceptions) should be directed to the Chair of the Department of Music and/or your applied music instructor.

Percussion Rooms (MDRC LL02 and LL24)	Keys ordered through Facilities for students registered in Music 168/268, 178/278, and 183/283.
African Drum Cabinet (MDRC LL05A)	Keys available in the Instrument Library for students registered in Music 192 and 199
Jazz Cabinet (MDRC LL13)	Keys available from the Instrumental Library Attendant for students registered in Music 162/262, 176/276, 177/277, 179/279, and occasionally 175/275.
Sitar Cabinets (MDRC LL15)	Keys available from the Department Assistant for students registered in Music 180/280 and 181/281.
Computer Lab (MH 110)	Keys are issued according to instructor's request.
Harpsichord/Fortepiano/ Organ Room (MDRC LL16)	Keys available from the Department Assistant for students registered in Music 170/270 and 171/271.
Early Instruments Room (MDRC LL19)	Keys available from the Department Assistant for students registered in Music 194 (Early Music chamber group).
Harp Room (MDRC LL22)	Keys available from the Department Assistant for students registered in Music 169/269.
Chinese Instruments Room (MDRC LL20)	Keys ordered through Facilities for students registered in Music 182/282.

Are practice rooms available?

Yes. Practice rooms are available in the lower level of the Concert Hall and the second and third floors (piano only) of the Music Hall on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Does the Music Department loan or rent out instruments?

The Music Department has a collection of standard and ethnic instruments available for loan to students registered in Ensembles and music lessons. All instruments may be borrowed at no cost. To check out an instrument or if you have further questions, contact the Instrument Library, MDRC LL05, ext. 4468. Students needing violins or violas should contact their instructor. Some non-orchestral or non-portable instruments (African drums, sitars, harps, harpsichords, early instruments, etc.) are available for student use, but may not be exclusively checked out. Instead, a student gains access to these rooms and cabinets when he/she joins an ensemble, enrolls for lessons, or receives special permission.

The Instrument Library may not be able to accommodate all requests for instruments, so students are advised to check out instruments as soon as possible. In addition, students who already own their own instruments should be aware that the Instrument Library collection might not have instruments that are equal in quality to the instrument they own, and should take this information into account when deciding whether to bring an instrument to college.

Where can I store my instrument?

Storage lockers/space in the Music & Drama Center and the Music Hall are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The Instrument Library assigns space in the Music & Drama Center, while Carole Engel assigns space in the Music Hall, primarily for violin and violas. Many students use these lockers, but many students choose to keep their smaller instruments in their rooms.

Can I submit a sample of my work along with my application for admission?

Carleton recognizes achievement in the arts and encourages students competent in them to submit slides, tapes, or other evidence of their work with their application for admission. We would appreciate it if all tapes had a note in the tape box stating the name of the applicant, the instrument, the titles of the compositions, and whether or not the student has composed or arranged any of the compositions.

I didn't take Basic Musicianship, but still want to take Music Theory.

The Music Theory Diagnostic Exam is usually offered during the first class meeting of Music 200 (Music Theory I). Check the New Student Week schedule to confirm the time and location.