Have you been successful with this year's summer program applications? Not really? Why not? You invested time and efforts in new recordings, updated your CV, your headshot looks neat. So what is the problem? Too much competition, you might think. And yes, this is oftentimes true. Hmm. But there might be another missing puzzle. Have you ever thought your motivation letter could make or break your chances, this seemingly unimportant part of your application?
We are receiving applications right now for GVAI's summer opera program and because we do rolling admissions, we started to work through some of them. (No, the application process is still going on, we just started to review what we already have. It's better to start earlier.) I want to be very honest with you. Going through all the material, taking time to make sure every applicant gets full attention, I sometimes get disappointed when I read the motivation letters. GVAI's program is very unique in the US. It is for singers who want to receive high quality training in German repertoire (Magic Flute and art song) with German experts, put a German role on their CV and who are interested in a German audition tour. As I am reading these motivation letters to our opera summer program, I realize there is just no motivation in there. Nothing about language, about Germany, about Magic Flute or Lieder. These letters are empty, written to be written. Nothing more. My conclusion: This person does not care. My time is wasted. The person's time and application fee, too. I know, some programs might not read your letter, you are very busy with the preparation of your exam and applying for other programs, but this motivation letter could be the entrance to the stage for you. If there are several singers showing the same skill level in their application and applying for the same role, this letter could be a win or lose. So take 5 minutes longer, take your generic motivation letter template and customize it for the program you apply for. Imagine you tell your teacher why you apply, then you have the key points. There must be a reason why you apply for this and not another program. What inspires you, what do you want to learn? What do you hope for? Be brief and concrete. I really want you to get accepted. And please make sure you read carefully what the program is really about. We get 80% of questions that are all answered on our website. Unfortunately, the competition in the opera world is very high and you will only succeed if you take it seriously. I am told I am a very empathic person, I love singing and our students. I try to do everything to support you and help you to get ready for this beautiful but harsh career. Once GVAI accepted a very talented singer to one of the programs. Her motivation letter was full of mistakes, because she hadn't been in America for a long time. Her voice was gorgeous, so we could not resist. But this was an exception. Don't count on it. Prepare the best and you are one step further to your personal goal.
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Most blog posts from June 2017 - June 2018 were written by GVAI's blogger Anikka Abbott who has just started her journalism studies. We already miss her. Learn more about her here or connect with her on Facebook.
Meet ChristineHello, I am Christine, the director of GVAI, a passionate singer, German diction, voice and performance coach. I love music, singing and dancing. Life is an exciting journey and I invite you to walk with me.... |