college essay about country music

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Blog > Essay Advice , Personal Statement > How to Write a Great College Essay About Music (with examples)

How to Write a Great College Essay About Music (with examples)

Admissions officer reviewed by Ben Bousquet, M.Ed Former Vanderbilt University

Written by Alex McNeil, MA Admissions Consultant

Key Takeaway

Ask any admissions officer if they’ve read a college essay about music, and they’ll definitely say yes. Between music extracurriculars and academic interests in music, it’s is one of the most common college essay topics.

So does that mean that you shouldn’t write your college essay about music?

Not necessarily. But as with any common college essay topic, some approaches are better than others.

Let’s get into it.

Why you should (and shouldn’t) write your Common App essay about music

As we explained in our Stanford Items exercise , writing your college essay on a common topic isn’t off-limits. In fact, most college essays share common topics and themes. Trying to find a completely unique, never-been-done-before topic is almost impossible. And writing about a quirky topic in hopes of coming across as unique usually backfires.

In other words, it’s likely that you’ll write about the same topic as someone else.

The problem arises, however, when you write about a common topic in a cliche way . Cliches are always a danger in college essays, but in especially college essay topics that tend to surface again and again.

To avoid cliches, your college essay about music needs to be deeply personal, specific, and meaningful. You’ll want to let go of any over-generalizations or truisms and focus on the details of your own story.

Because you’ll need to write meaningfully and vulnerably, you should only write your college essay about music if you have something genuine and significant to say.

The Best Ways to Approach Your College Essay about Music

College essays about music aren’t off the table, but you should be thoughtful in how you write about them. The following two approaches will help you avoid cliches and find an authentic, meaningful story that fulfills all the requirements of a personal statement .

Writing about music as an academic interest

If you’re interested in studying music in college, then you can consider writing your college essay about music as an academic interest. A college essay about your academic interest in music can show fantastic intellectual fit with a school.

Let’s say you want to study music theory or composition. You might write about a topic you find compelling, a problem you’ve solved, or even a recounting of your journey becoming interested in the subject.

Or maybe you’re an aspiring performer planning on studying music performance. As an admissions officer, I read outstanding essays about students performing their favorite pieces, creating emotional music projects, and teaching lessons to young children.

No matter your topic, your goal with this approach is to show an intellectual spark, a curiosity and passion that will demonstrate to your admissions officers that you’ll be a great addition to the music community on their campuses.

Writing poignantly about a deeply meaningful extracurricular

The previous approach is great if you want to study music, but what if music is just an extracurricular passion of yours? Don’t worry—you can still write about it.

In that case, the best way is to focus on meaning. Remember: personal statements should be deeply-meaningful reflections on your personal strengths.

To start, reflect on your music extracurricular. Is it playing guitar in a band? Playing trombone in your school’s symphony? Learning piano from your grandma? How your love of poetry turned into a love of songwriting?

Next, think about what strengths you have to showcase. If you play guitar in a band, maybe you want to highlight your collaborative spirit. If you love poetry and songwriting, perhaps you focus on your creativity.

Writing about your love of music in a way that draws upon your strengths will make sure that your Common App essay avoids the following two approaches and gives admissions officers a reason to admit you.

Approaches to Avoid

While the following two approaches aren’t necessarily bad, they are the most cliche ways of approaching a college essay about music. You might want to consider avoiding them.

An inauthentic tale of triumph

Let me tell you a cliche story.

When I was in fourth grade, I decided to join the school orchestra. I found it exceedingly difficult at first. No matter how hard I tried, I never could seem to place my fingers correctly on the fingerboard. Every sound I made mimicked a screeching cat. But I decided not to give up. I practiced every day after school and on the weekends. By the time I was in ninth grade, I had made it into my high school’s top orchestra.

Is that a lovely story? Yes, absolutely. Is it hearty enough for a college essay? No. While it tells a good narrative of growth and progress, it remains on the surface of the writer’s life. It comes across as a convenient way to brag about your strengths instead of exploring them in a genuine way. In this example, the story also focuses on events that happened way too far in the past.

A song that changed your life

This approach is by far the most common cliche in college essays about music. We’ve all been there: a favorite song that transports you to a moment in your life whenever you hear it. It makes sense that you’d want to write about yours.

But there’s a problem with this approach. Too often, it reads as trite or unoriginal, and the end result usually doesn’t say much about the writer. And when it does, the message an admissions officer gets doesn’t typically give them any more reason to admit you. Since you want your college essay to be meaningful, even vulnerable, and strengths-based, you’re better off choosing another topic that better speaks to who you are.

Key Takeaways + Examples

College essays about music aren’t for everyone. But when you get it right, you can strike the perfect chord with admissions officers (you’re welcome for the pun).

As you go, dig deep, find something genuinely personal, and try to avoid the most common and cliche ways of approaching the topic.

Want to see some examples of college essays about music before you get started? Check out our examples, The Time Machine and The Band .

Liked that? Try this next.

The Incredible Power of a Cohesive College Application

How to Write a College Essay (Exercises + Examples)

20 College Essay Examples (Graded by Former Admissions Officers)

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Country Music College Essays Samples For Students

27 samples of this type

WowEssays.com paper writer service proudly presents to you a free catalog of Country Music College Essays intended to help struggling students tackle their writing challenges. In a practical sense, each Country Music College Essay sample presented here may be a guide that walks you through the critical stages of the writing procedure and showcases how to pen an academic work that hits the mark. Besides, if you need more visionary help, these examples could give you a nudge toward an original Country Music College Essay topic or encourage a novice approach to a threadbare issue.

In case this is not enough to slake the thirst for effective writing help, you can request personalized assistance in the form of a model College Essay on Country Music crafted by an expert from scratch and tailored to your specific instructions. Be it a plain 2-page paper or a sophisticated, extended piece, our writers specialized in Country Music and related topics will submit it within the stated timeframe. Buy cheap essays or research papers now!

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Music Essays Examples

The influence of elvis presley has on music, sample essay on how does music influence politics, example of american music at wartime essay, the turkish cultural music development essay, facilitator, essay on vocal music, rhetoric and music essay.

Rhetoric can be defined as the art or study of using language effectively and persuasively (thefreedictionary). There have been many instances where the relationship between rhetoric and music has been close, particularly in the Baroque period (rhetoric).

Until relatively late in Western civilization, music was mainly a vocal art form and therefore words were of high importance. As a result, composers tended to be inspired by rhetorical principles when combining text with music (rhetoric). Furthermore, even after independent instrumental music gained popularity, the rhetoric principles continued to be used for both vocal and instrumental music.

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Country Music, Essay Example

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Music is the melody and the language of our hearts. It is an external manifestation of the aspirations, love, sorrow that we feel. It is like the words in our heart finds its way in music, and it is the best form of relaxation and well being for times immemorial. Our topic is however, a particular division of musical fraternity called the Country Music. As the name suggests, country music has a rich aroma of the feelings and sentiments of a rural image; it reminds us of the mountains, lush green meadows, the beautiful little country house, yellow sunshine and happy people and the guitar. So we would evaluate the following questions in our knowledge quest of country music.

A few lines of a country song, “ Have a little love on a little honeymoon, you got a little dish and a little spoon, a little bitty house and a little bitty yard, a little bitty dog and a little bitty car, Well, it’s alright to be a little bitty… A little hometown in a big old city, Might as well share, might as well smile; Life goes on for a little bitty while.”

The Origin of Country Music
The Beginning of Country Music
Grand Ole Opry
Singing Cowboy
Country Rock

The Origin of Country Music: Bristol, Tennessee are said to be the “Birthplace of Country music”, as per the 1998 United States Congress resolution. Country music was firstly characterized a gobbled set of words put in a melody, naïve, stereotype and tangy, to cater to a particular fraction of audience. It was termed cliché, as musicians played the same tunes with different set of words. These were a set of impartial judgments and mixed feelings that affected the growth of country music at birth, but its chastity and flavor could not have prevent the minds and hearts of hundreds of Americans and it became the most popular music forms in the 20 th Century. It came to be a big success and eventually ranked as the best selling music after the rock or pop music. The musical journey of country music spans from the 19 th century, with its subsequent changes and ordeal, and its different genre that has shaped and developed in the next 100 years of its birth.

The musical instruments used in the different phases of country music would give us a better insight to its physical journey. The first instrument that started country music was the fiddle (violin), which was very popular as it was easy to make, cheap and comfortable to carry. Preliminary it was the sole lead instrument, but with preceding time and popularity, new accessories added to the list, to further enrich the flavor of the music. The introduction of banjo, brought by the slaves in South America, became a popular form of instrument during the 1800. Then during 1900, guitar came into existence, used mainly for the rhythmic styles but later gained momentum as it started to carry new styles and forms of music. Soon it became the most popular form of mass instrument. Contemporary classical music soon transcended in the use of electric guitar and other parallel added instruments like the dobro, dulcimer, the autoharp, mandolin, zither, steel and bass guitar. You can also get the flavor of instruments like accordion, piano, harmonica, washboards or drums, which later added to give the hip hop in the country music flavor.

Country music has its roots influenced and introduced by the European settlers. In ancient times, scripting the folklore and history in the form of stories and parables were quite popular. People loved to hear history in short rhythmic tales and to make it more audible and famous, melody was synchronized. When America had the influx of British settlers, they imbibed the tradition of presenting history through music. It is said that country music was a first used by the settlers in Appalachian Mountains, to describe the vehement ordeal and difficult in livelihood that they faced. Music was the only form way to express their hardships. However, the sad and passive forms of melody eventually gave way to rhythm, fervor and energy. The ballads and music of the British Isles changed to music of joy and vitality. It soon left behind the shadows of mysticism, sad and monotonous epilogue… America soon adopted country music to be happy, chiastic and full of enthusiasm. The transformation was probably an effect of the rise of Victorian age, and the happy go lucky nature of American lifestyle. Country music became more concrete, focusing on real and current issues of the period. It was no longer stipulated for a limited rural audience, but attained a mass stature, narrating the events of the country as well as of the world.

The beginning of country music: As country music gained its popularity in America, there was a dearth of professional musicians. Since the introduction of country music, it was local and traditional in nature. Every village has its own story and own set of lyrics, closer to their heart. But the acceptance of such a marginalized talent in the global scenario was a matter of surprise. Musicians, fiddlers were invited on local occasions, marriages and cattle drives to sing on the occasion. Appreciation and applaud were mostly the essential part on behalf to showcase their talents. However, with the passage of time these melodies were carried from one place to another by nomads, visitors and settlers. Little attempt and efforts were taken to preserve the original, old country music.

Sears, Roebuck & Co. started to sell guitars all throughout the country, coupled with sheet music and song books. Mighty publicity stunts and advertisements led to the evolution of new brand of singers and country music became widely popularized. It was easily accessible and made the learning process easier. The mandolin also developed with it. Young singers emerged and gave a new dimension to country music. Northern America was largely influenced and small bands emerged; they took money to perform and sing country music. Monetary association led to a widespread affiliation and people started to take it as a profession. The new benchmark of earning money lured the gentry from socializing their talent instead of restricting it in the boundaries of their home. This spawned the new set of “hillbilly” performers in 1920. It was named after a musician known as Al Hopkins, who named his brand hillbilly as they were the occupants of North Carolina and Virginia.

The popularity of the phonograph, provided the opportunity to buy records of favorite singers. The songs of that period had an essence of classical and orchesteral arrangements. The new wave in the country music was brought about by two Texan fiddlers, Alexander Campbell and Henry Gilland, who travelled all the way from Atlanta to Ney York, in pursuit of recording their album. It was named “Ragtime Annie.” Then came a string of singers like John Carson. He was from Georgia and was selected to record for a company named Okek Phonograph Corporation in 1923. He recorded two songs “The Little Old Log Cabin in the Lane” and “The Old Hen Cackled and the Rooster’s Going to Crow.” The company was unsure about his coarse voice and felt that the record would be a disaster. However, it was a major hit and people loved the form of music.

Then comes the era of commercialization, in which country music received its much awaited acknowledgement as one of the finest forms of music in the world. . In 1927, Ralph Peer, took the onus to set up a recording studio in Bristol, Virginia/Tennessee border and publicly announced large number of musicians to join the group. There was large participation from the musicians living in the rural areas, because they could never imagined to be paid for the passion of their life, it was more than expected, that music could pay as well. At the end of 1924, Columbia Records started producing country music records and then there was a series of record giants pursuing good country music. They wanted to further add to the traditional songs, so that the market appeal increases and penetrates further in American hearts and minds.

Vernon Dalhart was the first superstar in American country music history. His album in 1916, “ The Wreck of the old 97” were among the popular ones. There followed a series of singers like the Carter Family, Jimmie Rodgers and so on.

However, soon the scenario changed and there was a major depression after 1920. There was economic turmoil and people could not afford on buying records. So during 1930 radio became a powerful medium of music and people could hear their favorite music. Then came famous shows like “National Barn Dance”, the “Wheeling Jamboree, “Grand Ole Opry” followed by Grand Opera. Eventually there were stars like Dr. Humphrey Bates, Gully Jumpers, Jimmy Thompson, Uncle Dave Macon, and Roy Acuff and so on. The Grand Ole Opry played a significant role in the shaping of the country music history and is responsible for opening the avenues of music to the next generations.

Singing Cowboys and Western Swing

In the 20 th century, old cowboy songs, which were mainly inspirational works of brave deeds, heroism, and patriotism ..Attributes of such feelings were expressed in the songs. They took an important part in the Hollywood movies and gained large amount of exposure. Movies has the technology of sound, so cowboy songs were added to make the movies more appealing. Thus songs which were mainly sung during rearing of cattle, got a permanent place in the history of movie cinema. Carl T. Sprague had the first recorded album and is considered to the the first singing cowboy. His album was known as “When the Work’s Al Done This Fall” which had a record sale of 900,000 copies and introduced the new trend in country music.

Country Rock: In the late 1960, American music leaped new heights. Country music got the touch of rock..the transformation from the old, traditional gospels to one that creates the resonance in music. From the sentimental journey to a more hip hop journey, to suit to the young generation. Thus old wine in a new bottle, country music was packaged in a new, style and genre known as the country rock. The famous country rock singers are The Byrds, Clarence White, The Eagles and so on.

Works Cited

Sabine Keevil, (2002) Guitars & Cadillacs, Thinking Dog Publishing, , Last Retrieved on October 26, 2009.

Peter La Chapelle (2007), Proud to Be an Okie: Cultural Politics, Country Music, and Migration to Southern California , Last Retrieved on October 26, 2009.

Pete Stamper, (1999), It All Happened in Renfro Valley , Last Retrieved on October 26, 2009 Colin Escott, Routledge, 2002, Roadkill on the Three-Chord Highway, Last Retrieved on October 26, 2009

http://www.hit-country-music-lyrics.com/alan-jackson-lyrics-country.html

http://www.countrymusicplanet.com/history/

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Guide on How to Write a Music Essay: Topics and Examples

Let's Understand What is Music Essay

You know how some school assignments are fun to write by default, right? When students see them on the course syllabus, they feel less like a burden and more like a guaranteed pleasure. They are about our interests and hobbies and therefore feel innate and intuitive to write. They are easy to navigate, and interesting topic ideas just pop into your head without much trouble.

Music essays belong to the category of fun essay writing. What is music essay? Anything from in-depth analysis to personal thoughts put into words and then to paper can fall into a music essay category. An essay about music can cover a wide range of topics, including music history, theory, social impact, significance, and musical review. It can be an analytical essay about any music genre, musical instruments, or today's music industry.

Don't get us wrong, you will still need to do extensive research to connect your opinions to a broader context, and you can't step out of academic writing standards, but the essay writing process will be fun.

In this article, our custom essay writing service is going to guide you through every step of writing an excellent music essay. You can draw inspiration from the list of music essay topics that our team prepared, and later on, you will learn what an outstanding essay on music is by an example of a music review essay.

What are Some Music Topics to Write About

There are so many exciting music topics to write about. We would have trouble choosing one. You can write about various music genres, be it country music or classical music; you can research music therapy or how music production happens.

Okay, forgive us for getting carried away; music makes us enthusiastic. Below you will find a list of various music essay topics prepared from our thesis writing service . Choose one and write a memorable essay about everyone's favorite art form.

Music Argumentative Essay Topics

Music essays can be written about an infinite number of themes. You can even write about performance or media comparison.

Here is a list of music argumentative essay topics. These edge-cutting topics will challenge your readers and get you an easy A+.

Exploring the evolution of modern music styles of the 21st century
Is it ethical to own and play rare musical instruments?
Is music therapy an effective mental health treatment?
Exploring the Intersection of Technology and Creativity in electronic music
The Relevance of traditional music theory in modern music production
The Role of musical pieces in the Transmission of cultural identity
The value of historical analysis in understanding the significance of music in society
How does exposing listeners to different genres of music break down barriers
Exploring the cognitive effects of music on human brain development
The therapeutic potential of music in treating mental disorders

Why is Music Important Essay Topics

Do you know which essay thrills our team the most? The importance of music in life essay. We put our minds together and came up with a list of topics about why music is so central to human life. Start writing why is music important essay, and we guarantee you that you will be surprised by how much fun you had crafting it.

Popular Music and its Role in shaping cultural trends
Music as a metaphorical language for expressing emotions and thoughts
How music changes and influences social and political movements
How the music of different countries translates their history to outsiders
The innate connection between music and human beings
How music helps us understand feelings we have never experienced
Does music affect our everyday life and the way we think?
Examining the cross-cultural significance of music in society
How rock music influenced 70's political ideologies
How rap music closes gaps between different racial groups in the US

Consider delegating your ' write my essay ' request to our expert writers for crafting a perfect paper on any music topic!

Why I Love Music Essay Topics

We want to know what is music to you, and the best way to tell us is to write a why I love music essay. Below you will find a list of music essay topics that will help you express your love for music.

I love how certain songs and artists evoke Memories and Emotions
I love the diversity of music genres and how different styles enrich my love for music
I love how music connects me with people of different backgrounds
How the music of Linkin Park helped me through life's toughest challenges
What does my love for popular music say about me?
How the unique sounds of string instruments fuel my love for music
How music provides a temporary Release from the stresses of daily life
How music motivates me to chase my dreams
How the raw energy of rock music gets me through my daily life
Why my favorite song is more than just music to me

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Music Therapy Essay Topics

One of the most interesting topics about music for an essay is music therapy. We are sure you have heard all the stories of how music cures not only mental but also physical pains. Below you can find a list of topics that will help you craft a compelling music therapy essay. And don't forget that you can always rely on our assistance for fulfilling your ' write my paper ' requests!

The effectiveness of music therapy in reducing stress and pain for cancer patients
Does pop music have the same effects on music therapy as classical music?
Exploring the benefits of music therapy with other genres beyond classical music
The potential of music therapy in aiding substance abuse treatment and recovery
The Role of music therapy in Addressing PTSD and Trauma in military veterans
The impact of music therapy on enhancing social interaction and emotional expression in individuals with developmental disabilities
The use of music therapy in managing chronic pain
Does musical therapy help depression?
Does music reduce anxiety levels?
Is music therapy better than traditional medicine?

History of Music Essay Topics

If you love analytical essays and prefer to see the bigger picture, you can always write a music description essay. Below you can find some of the most interesting topics for the history of music essay.

The Significance of natural instruments in music production and performance
Tracing the historical development of Western music theory
How electronic music traces its roots back to classical music
How the music industry evolved from sheet music to streaming services
How modern producers relate to classical composers
The Origins and Influence of Jazz Music
How folk music saved the Stories of unnamed heroes
Do we know what the music of ancient civilizations sounded like?
Where does your favorite bandstand in the line of music evolve?
The Influence of African American Music on modern pop culture

Benefits of Music Essay Topics

If you are someone who wonders what are some of the values that music brings to our daily life, you should write the benefits of music essay. The music essay titles below can inspire you to write a captivating essay:

How music can be used to promote cultural awareness and understanding
The benefits of music education in promoting creativity and innovation
The social benefits of participating in music groups
The Impact of Music on Memory and Learning
The cognitive benefits of music education in early childhood development
The effects of music on mood and behavior
How learning to play an instrument improves cognitive functions.
How music connects people distanced by thousands of miles
The benefits of listening to music while exercising
How music can express the feelings words fail to do so

Music Analysis Essay Example

Reading other people's papers is a great way to scale yours. There are many music essay examples, but the one crafted by our expert writers stands out in every possible way. You can learn what a great thesis statement looks like, how to write an engaging introduction, and what comprehensive body paragraphs should look like.

Click on the sample below to see the music analysis essay example.

How to Write a Music Essay with Steps

Writing music essays is definitely not rocket science, so don't be afraid. It's just like writing any other paper, and a music essay outline looks like any other essay structure.

Start by choosing a music essay topic. You can use our list above to get inspired. Choose a topic about music that feels more relevant and less researched so you can add brand-new insights. As we discussed, your music essay can be just about anything; it can be a concert report or an analytical paper about the evolution of music.
Continue by researching the topic. Gather all the relevant materials and information for your essay on music and start taking notes. You can use these notes as building blocks for the paper. Be prepared; even for short essays, you may need to read books and long articles.
Once you have all the necessary information, the ideas in your head will start to take shape. The next step is to develop a thesis statement out of all the ideas you have in your head. A thesis statement is a must as it informs readers what the entire music essay is about. Don't be afraid to be bold in your statement; new outlooks are always appreciated.
Next, you'll need a music essay introduction. Here you introduce the readers to the context and background information about the research topic. It should be clear, brief, and engaging. You should set the tone of your essay from the very beginning. Don't forget the introduction is where the thesis statement goes.
One of the most important parts of essay writing is crafting a central body paragraph about music. This is where you elaborate on your thesis, make main points, and support them with the evidence you gathered beforehand. Remember, your music essay should be well structured and depict a clear picture of your ideas.
Next, you will need to come up with an ideal closing paragraph. Here you will need to once again revisit the main points in your music essay, restate them in a logical manner and give the readers your final thoughts.
Don't forget to proofread your college essay. Whether you write a long or short essay on music, there will be grammatical and factual errors. Revise and look through your writing with a critical mind. You may find that some parts need rewriting.

Key Takeaways

Music essays are a pleasure to write and read. There are so many topics and themes to choose from, and if you follow our How to Write a Music Essay guide, you are guaranteed to craft a top-notch essay every time.

Be bold when selecting a subject even when unsure what is research essay topic on music, take the writing process easy, follow the academic standards, and you are good to go. Use our music essay sample to challenge yourself and write a professional paper.

If you feel stuck and have no time our team of expert writers is always ready to give you help from all subject ( medical school personal statement school help ). Visit our website, submit your ' write my research paper ' request and a guaranteed A+ essay will be on your way in just one click.

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FAQs on Writing a Music Essay

Though music essay writing is not the hardest job on the planet, there are still some questions that often pop up. Now that you have a writing guide and a list of essay topics about music, it's time to address the remaining inquiries. Keep reading to find the answers to the frequently asked questions.

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How to Write a College Essay about Music

Music has the ability to evoke emotions and tell stories, making it a popular topic for college essays. Whether you are a musician or simply passionate about music, writing a college essay about music can showcase your creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills. However, it can also be challenging to know where to start and how to stand out from the other applicants. Here are some tips on how to write a college essay about music that will impress the admissions committee.

1. Choose a Specific Topic

The first step in writing a college essay about music is to choose a specific topic. Rather than writing a general essay about music, focus on a particular aspect that interests you. For example, you could write about how music has influenced your life, how a particular musician or genre has inspired you, or how music has the power to bring people together. Whatever topic you choose, make sure it is meaningful to you and allows you to showcase your personality.

2. Show, Don't Tell

One of the most important rules of writing is to show, not tell. This means that you should use specific examples and details to illustrate your points, rather than simply stating them. For example, instead of saying "I love music," you could describe how you feel when you listen to your favorite song or how playing an instrument helps you to express yourself.

3. Use Descriptive Language

To make your essay come alive, use descriptive language that engages the reader's senses. This means using adjectives and adverbs to describe the music and how it makes you feel. For example, you could describe a piece of music as "hauntingly beautiful" or "energetic and upbeat." By using descriptive language, you can transport the reader into your world and help them to experience the music alongside you.

4. Incorporate Personal Anecdotes

One of the best ways to make your essay stand out is to incorporate personal anecdotes. This means sharing stories from your own life that relate to the topic of your essay. For example, if you are writing about how music has influenced your life, you could share a story about how a particular song helped you through a difficult time or how playing an instrument has taught you discipline and perseverance. By sharing personal anecdotes, you can make your essay more relatable and memorable.

5. Edit and Revise

Finally, make sure to edit and revise your essay before submitting it. This means checking for spelling and grammar errors, making sure your essay flows logically, and ensuring that your ideas are clearly expressed. It can also be helpful to have someone else read your essay and provide feedback. By taking the time to edit and revise your essay, you can ensure that it is polished and professional.

Music is an art form that has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers. It can evoke powerful emotions, create a sense of community, and inspire people in ways that words cannot. Music has been a part of human history for thousands of years, and it continues to be a significant aspect of our lives today.

When it comes to writing a college essay about music, the first step is to understand why you want to write about it. Music can be a great topic for an essay because it can showcase your personality, creativity, and passion. It allows you to share a unique perspective on the world and communicate your thoughts and feelings in a way that is both personal and universal.

Music can also be an excellent way to showcase your skills and accomplishments. If you are a musician or have experience with music, you can highlight your achievements and demonstrate your dedication to the art form. For example, you may have performed in a school or community choir, played an instrument in a band, or composed your own music. These experiences can be excellent fodder for your college essay.

In addition, writing about music can be a way to connect with your readers. Many people have a deep appreciation for music and can relate to its power to evoke emotions and tell stories. Your essay can create a sense of shared experience and connect with your audience in a meaningful way.

Overall, writing a college essay about music can be a great opportunity to showcase your creativity, passion, and unique perspective on the world. It can be a way to highlight your skills and accomplishments, and connect with your readers on a personal level. So if you have a love for music, consider making it the focus of your college essay.

In conclusion, writing a college essay about music can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for students who are passionate about this art form. By following the tips and strategies outlined above, students can effectively showcase their musical talents, interests, and experiences in their essays. Remember, the key to a successful college essay about music is to convey your passion, uniqueness, and personality through your writing. By doing so, you can create a memorable and impactful essay that will help you stand out in the college admissions process.

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Contrary to my critics, research proves that country music is for everyone

I wrote that nashville leaders were complicit in keeping country music homogeneous. the reaction was brutal, but the research (and the critics) prove my point..

Andrea Williams is an opinion columnist for The Tennessean and curator of the Black Tennessee Voices initiative. She has an extensive background covering country music, sports, race and society.

In 2021, the Country Music Association commissioned Horowitz Research to conduct on a study on “Country Music’s Multicultural Opportunity.” 4,000 consumers were surveyed, the group being split equally among white/non-Latino, Latino, Asian, and Black respondents.

By the time the study published, the country music industry was a year-and-a-half removed from the black squares and hashtags of the summer of 2020. By that point, there had been numerous panels hosted and task forces convened; insiders, it seemed, were fully aware of the industry’s issues.

Horowitz’s findings confirmed them. Among the results, reported by Jessica Nicholson of Billboard: “20% of BIPOC (Black, indigenous and other people of color) attendees say they experienced racial profiling and/or harassment at a country music live event–and 20% of white people say they have witnessed it” while 17% of respondents believed that “seeing racist symbols (certain flags or hand gestures) happens more at country music events.”

In all, Nicholson wrote, “the study emphasized the importance of reframing the perception that the country audience is ‘white,’ given that the research showed that one in four Black and Latinx fans and one in five Asians listen to country music on a weekly basis.”

I mention this report because, after The Tennessean published my column last week , which highlighted Nashville’s complicity in country music’s diversity problem, it’s clear that the industry has failed to make significant strides toward this reframing over the last two years.

Story by Marcus K. Dowling: Earl Scruggs 100th birthday concert celebrates bluegrass' legacy at Ryman Auditorium

Research shows that people of color also listen to country music

My social media mentions and email inbox were filled with people who lambasted my audacity to question the whiteness of their music when we have rap and R&B.

“Stop making everything about ‘equity,’” wrote @RaeRaeko on X.

“Sounds like you’re making excuses for your own culture appropriation problem,” wrote @AaFarmerAa.

There were also accusations of race-baiting and inserting race into a genre where it didn’t exist (no, really), along with the admonishments to go back to where I came from.

In his own essay, published in The Pamphleteer daily newsletter , native Nashvillian Davis Hunt (@realpamphleteer), who called me “unhinged,” wrote that country music has “miniscule appeal to the black community.”

But Horowitz’s study thoroughly debunks this notion. What’s more, even if one thinks it’s perfectly acceptable for spaces like country music to be nearly all white in 2024, that justification should cease when you understand that this industry is not white by nature of accident or self-selection.

There are — and have been — plenty of non-white people attempting to build careers in this space for generations. With few exceptions, they were either shut out completely or not given the proper support to achieve eventual success. And this doesn’t just apply to artists. It’s also applicable to those who sought to work as A&Rs (artists and repertoire representatives) and songwriters, producers and guitarists, publicists and engineers, marketing professionals and business managers.

Those inside the industry know this. They’ve met with Black songwriters and refused to sign or develop them; they’ve interviewed Black students from MTSU and Belmont and refused to give them internships or jobs; they’ve met Black artists on radio tour and refused to play their songs. Or, like the 20% of white respondents in the Horowitz survey, they’ve seen it happen.

Let’s talk about representation in the rap industry

It's the outsiders who remain ignorant — the people in my mentions who are allowed to believe a story that simply isn’t true, who are coddled in their own refusal to give up the all-white spaces that were artificially manufactured just for them.

They feel entitled to these spaces and will willingly fight for them — not because they are worried that diversity will ruin the music they “love,” but because they hate the idea that Black people, or any other “outsiders,” would infringe on the space they have unjustly declared their own.

They also refuse to do any research before spewing their vitriolic nonsense. Even a cursory Google search would show that rap is far more diverse than country. While “Loving on Me” by Jack Harlow, who is white, currently sits atop the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, songs by Black artists are often written and/or produced by white creatives. Meanwhile, the offices of their labels are filled with white execs. There is no parallel to be drawn between country music and rap any more than Allison Russell could be mistaken for Alison Krauss.

Many people working in the industry would say they want to distance themselves from people like this. If I showed them my mentions they’d apologize. They’d shrug and shake their heads, as if to say there’s nothing they can do. Then they’d rattle off their own progressive bona fides: the Black child they adopted from Africa, the gay best friend from college, the fact that they’re a long-registered Democrat.

But it would all be for show. Because when they walked away, they’d go back to their desks and roll up their sleeves, and they’d continue to a build a world that makes the men and women in my inbox feel comfortable—a world that upholds some of the worst aspects of the human condition.

Ultimately, as I wrote last week, this is country music’s right.

But the city of Nashville, as I also wrote, shouldn’t be complicit.

Andrea Williams is an opinion columnist for The Tennessean and curator of the Black Tennessee Voices initiative. She has an extensive background covering country music, sports, race and society. Email her at [email protected] or follow her on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @AndreaWillWrite .

267 Music Essay Topics + Writing Guide [2024 Update]

Your mood leaves a lot to be desired. Everything around you is getting on your nerves. But still, there’s one thing that may save you: music. Just think of all the times you turned on your favorite song, and it lifted your spirits!

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

So, why not write about it in a music essay? In this article, you’ll find all the information necessary for this type of assignment:

267 brilliant music essay topics,
a sample paper,
a step-by-step guide and writing tips.

And don’t forget to bookmark  custom-writing.org  where you can find helpful essay tips in articles like this one.

🔝 Music Essay Topics: Top 10

🎵 Music Essay Definition
🎼 Essay Topics
✍️ How to Write
📑 Essay Sample

🔗 References

Compare different recording formats.
The purpose of music.
Ternary and rondo: compare and contrast.
Music as a lifestyle.
The benefits of singing.
Ethnomusicology as a career.
Evolution of the radio.
The importance of school musicals.
Music as a tool for meditation.
Music in sports.

🎵 Essays about Music: What Are They?

A music essay describes or analyzes a piece of music, its context, or one’s personal attitude towards it. This type of assignment requires a compelling primary argument and a clear structure.

To write well about music, you don’t have to be a professional musician. All you need is to be able to listen, understand, and evaluate it. You should also provide your interpretation and opinion on it.

Writing about Music: Assignment Types

An essay on music is a popular assignment in high school and college. However, many students find it hard to describe sounds in a written form. In this article, we will give you some tips on writing about music.

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Here are the typical tasks that you might receive:

Concert report. It requires describing the music you’ve heard using as many details and terms as you can.
Historical analysis of a piece. Your aim is to describe the historical context of a piece or its relation to the historical setting. For this type of assignment, you may need to do some research.
Song analysis. In this type of essay, you explore song lyrics’ meaning and show how they work together with the melody.
Performance or media comparison. Here you need to compare several interpretations or performances of one piece of music.

The picture shows different tasks related to writing about music.

All of these assignments require a different approach and topic. You will find topics for these types of tasks below.

How to Choose a Music Essay Topic

First things first, you need to find a suitable music essay topic. To accomplish this task, you might want to take the following steps:

Analyze your relationship with music . What role does it play in your life? Your topic choice will be different if you are a musician or merely a listener.
Think about how music influences your everyday life . For instance, you can study how listening to music affects our mental health. Impressing your readers with some historical facts from the world of music is also a great idea.
Try reflecting on the role of different music genres in your life . Whether you prefer rap or classical music, exploring a genre is an excellent topic idea. Topics related to musical instruments are also worth attention.
Narrow your topic down. Otherwise, it will be too difficult to focus your essay on just one idea.

🎼 Music Essay Topics List

The first thing you need to do is to choose your topic. We have prepared a variety of music topics perfect for research papers and short essays. You can also use them for speeches or college application essays.

Argumentative Essay about Music: Topics & Ideas

Argumentative essays about music are usually concerned with a specific music-related issue you choose to address. Just like with any other argumentative essay, you should present both sides of the topic. Also, reliable facts are a must for this type of essay.

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The influence of modern technologies on the music industry. Technologies allow artists to create and promote their songs independently. Because of this, record labels are less critical to musicians than before. However, the emergence of new technologies also gave rise to piracy . Do the positives outweigh the negatives?
What’s the effect of pop music on the modern generation? Today’s pop songs are usually commercial . Because of this, some people say that pop has ruined the current generations’ perception of music. Others argue that contemporary pop music expanded the possibilities of the genre.
Rock music makes people more aggressive . Some consider rock music merely an arrangement of aggressive tunes that foster violence. On the counter side, science has proven that people who prefer rock to other genres are calmer and more concentrated. Which position do you agree with?
Can people with hearing impairments become famous musicians ? Many believe that access to fame and fortune is limited for disabled people. The deaf may seem especially unsuited for the music business . Yet, the examples of Beethoven, Neil Young, and Chris Martin show that hearing problems don’t have to be an issue.
Will streaming completely substitute physical copies? Digitalization is on its way to replacing LPs and CDs. For most people, it’s simply more convenient. But their opponents claim that an MP3 file can never sound as good as a physical copy.
Some music genres can be a catalyst for violence. While their beats may be calm, hip-hop and rap’s lyrics are often aggressive and brutal. Does it have adverse effects on a listener?
Can a person become addicted to music ?
Censorship on the radio: why stations shouldn’t bleep out obscenities.
Is mandatory musical education in high schools practical?
The impact of Mozart’s music on toddlers.
Should a musician’s personal life affect people’s perception of their art?
How susceptible are teenagers to political messages in songs?
Music influences one’s mental and physical capabilities .
Are children who listen to music more intelligent than others?
Music genres are inherently dependent on musical instruments .
Is music as an art form more popular than cinema ?
Debate whether rap musicians promote a frivolous and careless lifestyle .
Many musicians became famous only because they’ve had connections.
Music festivals are the best form of entertainment.
Does music always sound better live than on records?
Is classical music better than modern genres?
Is it justified that some religions view music as a sin?
Typically, music defines a culture and its traditions: true or false?
Rap music has a strong connection to rebellious movements.
Jamaican music’s link to the stoner lifestyle is unjustified.
Synesthesia: how is music related to visuals?

Opinion on Music: Essay Topics

Opinion essays about music might seem similar to the argumentative type. Here, you are expected to write your personal opinion on a topic. Naturally, you can have many opinions on musical topics. Why not broadcast them? Keep in mind that you also need to provide reasons for your point of view.

Music therapy can help people with mental illnesses . It’s a well-known fact that music affects the human brain. This ability makes it perfect for treating mental health problems. On the one hand, psychologists established that listening to classical music increases one’s cognitive capacity . On the other hand, listening to heavy rock impacts responsiveness.
The questionable treatment of women in the music industry . While it may seem that both sexes are treated equally, women still earn much less than they deserve. Moreover, the extreme sexualization of girls persists as one of the most pressing problems in the industry.
Which musician or band impacted your worldview ? Discuss what makes your favorite artist special. Consider analyzing their lyrics, genre, and evolution. If you want to, add a review of one of their albums .
What are the challenges of being an independent artist? Typically, independent artists deal with all the financial, promotional, and distributional affairs by themselves. In the increasingly complex music business, this is not an easy task.
Is social media efficient for promotion? Almost every modern artist uses social media to promote their albums or songs. Users often check their networks for updates, which increases the musician’s visibility. But do such methods help in the long run?
Passion is the essential personal quality for every musician . If an artist is not eager to continually produce high-quality output, they’re unlikely to succeed. However, qualities such as responsibility, honesty, hard work, and creativity are also vital.
Is music good for stress relief?
How does music connect people ?
Analyze qualities that good musicians shouldn’t have.
Who are the most excellent musicians in the country genre ?
Is it possible to live without interacting with music ?
Choose three successful rappers and analyze their influence.
How can a musician become famous without having money or connections?
What are the difficulties of being in a band ?
Who impacted the development of indie music the most?
Is pop music losing its popularity? If so, why?
Three factors that affected your choice of a favorite genre .
Which artists are the most prominent in power metal?
Which record label is the most influential now?
Can Justin Bieber’s songs be considered legendary?
Did Kanye West introduce a new kind of rap?
Which rock bands lost their fame because of a scandal ? How did it happen?
Discuss Dire Straits’ impact on music history .
Who are currently the most successful women pop singers ?
Why are some music genres more popular than others?
What does success in the music world depend on ?

Topics for a Persuasive Essay about Music

Is there anything music-related you want to convince people of? A persuasive paper is your chance. Carefully craft your arguments to show your readers you’ve always been right about the beauty of cowbells. If it’s not your jam, consider these essay topics about music:

A seven-string guitar is superior to a six-string one. The additional string gives more room for creativity. It might be challenging to master, but in the end, the music has a fuller sound . Do you think it’s worth the effort?
The lyrics don’t matter as long as the melody is good. It’s possible to like songs from different countries, even if the listener doesn’t understand the language. The singing is simply part of the composition. Does this mean that what the vocalist says is unimportant?

The picture shows the information about the oldest surviving musical composition.

Most people living in big cities neglect country music. People from urban areas tend to think that country music is tasteless. For them, its tunes and lyrics sound too simple. Does the strong association with cowboys, farms, and long roads simply not appeal to the city lifestyle?
Should rap music be performed only by black people ? The genre hosts a large portion of African American artists . Not only that, but black rappers are widely considered the best of their craft. Do white artists do the genre justice?
Music that artists make merely to get money is soulless. Passion is a critical factor for every musician. If money is the primary driver for creating a song , the result is inevitably flawed. Do you agree?
Pop music is undergoing a transformation. Listeners acknowledge pop as the primary genre of contemporary music . Yet, new musical instruments are changing the game. Even the lyrics touch on more serious topics than before.
Indie is the new pop. Indie music is a relatively novel genre. Still, it continues to gain popularity. The light-hearted tunes paired with existential lyrics have captured the audience’s hearts. Is it possible to envision the future of music without bands such as Coldplay, The 1975, and the Arctic Monkeys?
The meaning of freedom for jazz as a musical genre .
Punk rock has recently witnessed a renaissance.
Exposing plants to classical music makes them grow faster.
Classical music: intellectually stimulating or relaxing ?
Is it justified that some countries legally prohibit artists from performing?
Is it easier for children to learn with music?
Can a person ever become a great artist without a natural talent ?
Should workplaces allow their employees to listen to background music ?
Jimi Hendrix’s guitar skills are still unmatched.
The impact of pop music on European culture and trends.
Kurt Cobain’s death should have been a wake-up call for the music industry .
Why is music beneficial to society?
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s legacy can be felt even today.
Nintendocore is a legitimate genre that the industry should take more seriously.
Should you listen to a bands’ music even if you disagree with their opinions ?
Musicians should receive more government support.
Patriotic songs make people feel passionate and energetic about their country.
Depressive and sad tunes can worsen a person’s mood.
Doctors and therapists need to understand the importance of music .

Music Evaluation Essay Topics

Do you want to know how to evaluate music? The point is to divide your overall impression into several parts. Music evaluation requires much attention and concentration, so try to do your best to stay focused while listening.

Use these criteria for evaluating music performances:

Now all you need to do is choose a topic and get down to writing!

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Discuss the rise and fall of hardcore punk. Many bands that started in the hardcore punk scene softened their sound over time. Why did this genre disappear from the mainstream?
Copyright laws are going too far . It’s getting increasingly difficult to use somebody else’s intellectual property. Creators on YouTube have to fear lawsuits for creatively repurposing copyrighted music. Moreover, laws such as the DMCA are frequently abused to generate revenues.
More bands should use their influence for political purposes . Renowned artists have a broad reach. Bands like Rise Against or Anti Flag use this influence to raise political awareness among their fans. Is it a fair approach?
Borrowing and plagiarism in contemporary music . New artists don’t emerge without having listened to other musicians. They draw inspiration from their predecessors. Thus, songs are always a mix of already existing tracks. In your essay, discuss the difference between homage and plagiarism.
What are the similarities between poetry and song lyrics? Songs and poems are similar in that they deliver a message to the audience. Their creation demands extensive knowledge of rhyming, literary devices, and other components.
Why do some musicians ask others to write lyrics for them? It is a common practice to have a crew of songwriters who create texts for performers. Sometimes it happens due to a lack of imagination or inspiration. Does finding out that your favorite artist doesn’t write their lyrics destroy the magic of their music?
How can popular music diversify as a genre? Pop music reached its peak. Adding and borrowing elements from different genres can be one way to diversify a streamlined genre.
The history of music as political propaganda .
Explain the difference between high and low contemporary music culture .
How is contemporary music related to that from other periods?
What are the connections between pop music and the hip-hop genre?
What connects popular music and contemporary culture ?
How does music in the United States relate to Spanish music ?
Analyze the evolution of Indian music .
Discuss why certain albums manage to climb to the top of the charts.
The link between social classes and musical genres.
Differences and similarities of music and other art forms .
How does a musical instrument’s origin influence its development?
What is the role of traditional music today?

The picture shows a Victor Hugo quote about music.

What are the main processes in music production?
How is music theory relevant today?
Analyze which contemporary artists’ albums had an effect comparable to that of Queen’s A Night at the Opera .
Eurodance: Europe’s most extravagant genre.
Songs and everyday life of Michael Jackson vs. Madonna: who wins the ultimate pop crown?
What difficulties has Eminem faced throughout his career?
Over-ear headphones provide a better sound experience than on-ear ones.

Topics for an Expository Essay on Music

An expository essay explains or describes a subject. In the colorful world of music, topics can range from the physics of sound waves to artists’ social impact.

The importance of Blues music in the late 19 th century and now . Blues originated in the 19 th century American South. It was an outlet for African Americans to express their sorrows. Later, it exceeded by far the cultural boundaries that confined it.
The role of music in prison camps. Singing was an essential part of life in the Nazi concentration camps . One of the most well-known songs of that time is called Peat Bog Soldiers . In your expository essay, explore why prisoners started singing and how it developed.
How did Chester Bennington’s death impact the music industry? Linkin Park was a giant in the business for decades until depression made their lead singer take his own life. The event sparked debates surrounding mental health and pressure in the creative industry. What long-lasting effects did these discussions have?
How did Baroque music reflect the zeitgeist? Compared to the Renaissance period, Baroque was in all aspects very pompous. The artists of the Sun King’s time didn’t shy away from the extravaganza. This ideal is especially prominent in architecture. How does music fit into the picture?
Investigate the development of musical harmony. The Ancient Greeks already had an idea of some tones fitting together better than others. However, it wasn’t until the 1600s that tonality became a crucial part of music theory.
Music in commercials: an analysis. Songs and jingles are commonplace in TV commercials. But what are they good for? In your essay, you can compare the success of advertisements with and without music.
What causes music trends to change? It’s easy to define various eras of music . Naturally, the invention of new instruments has influenced this development. What other factors played a role in these transformations?
Why is 4/4 a universal beat?
Examine the origins of The Star-Spangled Banner .
The effects of dissonance on the human mind .
How do staccato, legato, and other forms of articulation influence the perception of a musical piece ?
Discuss the significance of music in video games .
Music drives people’s motivation.
Explain the calming effects of nature sounds .
How does music influence literature ?
Celtic music is known to have an extraordinary impact on the psyche. How does it work?
How does music impact the discharge of hormones such as dopamine?
Music therapy is suitable for those who have bipolar disorder .
What made Falco such a unique artist?
How does the perception of a silent film differ from that of a movie with sound?
A rock concert by Kansas: How the relevance of live concerts changed over time .
Is being able to read music important for a composer ?
How did Beethoven write music after losing his hearing?
Should all songs have proper rhythm and structure?
Why do so many indie artists become commercial?
Is it essential for song lyrics to rhyme?

History of Music: Essay Topics

If you’re interested in the evolution of music, you’ve come to the right section. Historical research reveals the significance of music throughout time. Unsurprisingly, songs and melodies have been part of human culture for centuries. Dive deeper into this exciting subject with one of the following ideas:

How did the Catholic Church influence music development in Europe? During the Middle Ages , religious movements had a significant impact on music. Consequently, composers used to create more sacred music. It became a way of personal expression since it often contained religious texts. 
The cultural meaning of Renaissance music and its influence on other styles . During the time of the Renaissance , sacred and secular music heavily impacted each other. As a result, more variety emerged. The chanson and madrigal, for example, became popular around Europe.
Research archaeological findings of early musicality. The search for the oldest musical instrument delivers thrilling insights. Archaeologists have excavated a flute made of ivory and bird bones, dating approximately 43,000 years ago. They found it in a cave in Germany where Neanderthals lived.
History of early music and appearance of musical instruments. The beginning of the human culture was the turning point of musical instruments’ appearance. They were primarily used for spiritual rites; typically, they were horns or drums for ceremonies.
Louis Armstrong’s contributions to the jazz world. Jazz originated in New Orleans and was a favorite among African Americans. Louis Armstrong’s improvisations forever changed the genre, making the soloist-improviser the center of the performance.
The phenomenon of pop music and its origins. Popular music dates back to the second half of the last century. It comes from the US and the UK. Its main peculiarity lies in the variety of tunes and lyrics .
Native American music before the discovery of the New World . Incas and Aztecs had particular styles of music. Findings show that these ancient civilizations used instruments for ceremonies. Researchers also discovered that various American cultures mingled, thus creating new techniques.
The use of string instruments in classical Greek songwriting.
Famous composers of 18th century Italy and their influence.
Mozart vs. Beethoven: comparison of techniques.
Deliver a thoughtful analysis of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony .
What role do acoustic instruments play in jazz compositions ?
Explore the history of the Ocarina.
Due to what circumstances did Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart become one of the greatest musical geniuses in history?
Influence of the Romantic period on modern music .
How and why were the swing era and jazz connected?
Rock and roll as an international language in the 20th century.
Explore the rise of techno music.
Is there a historical connection between music and math ?
How did music become a staple subject in many schools?
The greatest musicians of World War I .
Industrialization and its effect on music development.
How did female producers such as Kate Bush impact the music industry ?
Analyze Frédéric Chopin’s contribution to classical music .
Music evolution in ancient Greece vs. the Roman Empire .
How does archeology help to uncover musical traditions ?
Tupac’s influence on modern rap music .

Classification Essay about Music: Topic Ideas

In a classification essay, you explain how a whole relates to parts or vice versa. To do it, you need to divide one broad category into several subcategories. Each classification paragraph focuses on one subcategory, so you need to find a key feature that will be your basis of division. For example, you can divide music by genre, volume, musical instruments, etc.

Here is our list of musical topics for this essay type:

The most popular types of alternative music among teenagers. Naturally, teens like different kinds of rock and experimental music . Try to dig deeper and ask some teenagers about their preferences to get a clear picture.
Types of modern dance music . Describe the tendencies and popular genres. You can also focus on a specific country.
The most popular types of jazz music in Europe . Although jazz emerged in the United States, this genre became recognizable all over the world. You can analyze the most popular streamed songs, or the concerts and other mass events.
Rock music in the ’70s. You can describe the genres, styles, or types of performers. The concerts, clothes, and lifestyles are also suitable for this topic.
Blues musicians of different time periods. Analyze the lyrics, the musical instruments they used, and how long their careers lasted.
Classification of music for children . Some of it can be for dancing, development, or just listening. Research the purposes of different kinds of music for children.
Types of music used in films. The soundtrack is one of the main things we remember after watching a movie. There can be popular songs or tracks composed specifically for a film .
Rock bands that represent different subgenres.
Rap subgenres in the United States.
Periods of classical music .
What motivates people to start a musical career?
Different kinds of music for relaxation.
The industries where composers work .
Types of opera singers and instrumental music .
Different professions in the music industry .
Unpopular genres of independent music.
Different types of music listeners .

College Essay about Music: Topics

When you apply to your dream college, you need to write an impressive essay. Admissions officers pay attention not only to your grades and achievements but also to your personality. Your writing can indicate your motivation, academic interests, and how well you fit into the college. Writing an essay about “music in my life” is a great way to demonstrate your passion and creativity.

Choose one of these topics related to music for your college essay:

The role of music in your life . Describe what music means to you, how often you listen to it, and how it helps you in life. For example, you can write about inspiration, motivation, or the sense of freedom that it gives you.
What are the essential aspects of music for you? Try to write down everything you like about music. It might be melodies, lyrics, vocals, or mood. You can choose several aspects if you feel that you can’t decide.
The time when music changed your life. In this essay, you can pick one occurrence or describe how music changed your life gradually. It’s important to indicate where you started from and where it led you.
How do you see the future of the music industry? Demonstrate to the admissions officer how well you know the art and the business.
Your role model in the music industry. You may write about the qualities of the person you admire and why you want to develop them in yourself. Remember that admission officers want to read about you, not your idol.
How did your musical taste change over the last ten years? Describe the evolution of your preferences. Explain why you have changed some of your past choices. Do you think your musical taste has improved?
Your favorite musical genre .
Does listening to music help to heal body and spirit?
What is the best music performance you have ever seen?
Why do people become fans of particular musicians?
Your favorite song lyrics .
Can people be judged by their musical taste?
Why is music an essential part of human culture?
Quote about music that appeals to you the most.
How can music education help you in the future?
Do you prefer listening to music or performing it?
How can music change your mood?
Why you want to become a musician.
Which culture has the most beautiful ethnical music ?
Is music more of an art or business?
What are the essential parts of musical education ?

✍️ Music Essay: How to Write

So, you have chosen your essay title. Now it’s time to start writing! But before you begin, read the sections below and learn how to organize your work.

How to Describe Music in Writing

You might think that writing about music is like dancing about architecture. Well, it is not an easy task, but we know how to cope with it.

Follow these tips while writing:

Make a comparison. Explain which characteristics of a piece remind you or are identical to those of another one. It’s better to avoid comparing music from different composers in this case. Instead, evaluate and analyze two musical pieces from the same composer.
Describe the melody and dynamics. You may want to use musical terms to show your knowledge and proficiency. Define the genre and what kind of instruments and tones are used.
Explain how it makes you feel. You can use basic human emotions to describe the feelings of a listener. For example, it can be anger, tenderness, irritation, excitement, or nostalgia.
Use metaphorical language. You may try using your imagination to create analogies. Be careful not to make your metaphors overcomplicated, as it may confuse the readers.

Essays about Music: Descriptive Words

Do you want your essay on music to be interesting and expressive? Then you may want to use descriptive vocabulary. Here are some of the terms that you can use in your essay to make it sound more professional:

Tempo is the “speed” of music. There are fixed expressions to define tempo—for example, largo, moderate, or presto. You can also describe how fast the music feels.
Timbre is the term that evaluates the “color” of music. Even if two instruments play the same note of the same volume, the sound is still different. This is how you can notice the color of the tone. For example, gentle, clear, heavy, or warm can be the adjectives to describe timbre.
Dynamics define the volume levels of music. The volume can be the same all the time, for example loud or soft. If the volume of music changes, you can use such expressions as “gradually gets louder” “or suddenly becomes soft.”
Harmony characterizes how all the notes and chords sound together. The sequence of chords—chord progression—defines how satisfying the melody is for the listener. For example, if the transitions are smooth, you can use such words as “relaxed” or “warm.”

Music Essay Outline

Like any other assignment, writing about music requires a proper essay outline that will guide you through the writing. The following sections will help you with that.

Before you start, here are some tips that will help you prepare for writing:

Do some prior research. Try to learn as much as possible about the piece you will be writing about. It’s also helpful to listen to the music several times with headphones to notice more details.
Don’t be afraid of asking questions. Consult your instructor if you’re unsure about your topic or the piece you have chosen.
Choose the topic that you like. If you’re passionate about a subject, it is always easier to write about it. Who said that homework could not be interesting?
Follow the recommendations that your instructor gives. It includes word limit, formatting style, deadline, and essay type.

Music Essay Introduction

The introduction is the section where you come up with a brief explanation of the topic. You may start it with a quotation, definition, or short statement that catches your reader’s attention and leads them to the essay subject.

A thesis statement is usually the last sentence of the introduction that defines the content of body paragraphs. It needs to be specific and not longer than two sentences. If you decide to shift the focus of your essay while writing, it’s crucial to change your thesis too.

Different types of essays require different thesis statements. Let’s take a closer look:

Music Essay Body

Your essay’s body is the most significant part of your writing. Here, you provide evidence and explanations of your claims.

The typical body paragraph structure includes:

A topic sentence explaining the argument for a particular paragraph.
An introduction to the evidence you gathered to support an argument.
Quotes and facts (don’t forget about proper citation!) and their explanation.
A connection between the evidence and the essay topic.
Paragraph transitions  leading your reader to the next section.

Topic Sentence about Music

Topic sentences can be used as a roadmap to writing your essay. Each body paragraph begins with a topic sentence that defines what the paragraph is about. It introduces the argument or main thought that will be explained. It’s also connected with the thesis statement.

It’s essential to make your thesis easy to understand, so it’s better not to overcomplicate it. For example, here’s an unsuccessful topic sentence with unnecessary words:

As stated above, the guitar is an essential musical instrument in rock music that defines how it sounds.

Instead, you can formulate it like this:

The guitar is the most iconic musical instrument in rock music that defines how it sounds.

Music Essay Conclusion

When writing a conclusion for your essay on music, you can use the following structure:

Summarize the text in a few sentences.
Review the key points of your paper.
Paraphrase the thesis.

To make your essay conclusion more effective, avoid the following:

📑 What Music Means to Me: Essay Example

Now you know all about writing an essay on music! To make it even easier for you, we’ve prepared an essay sample that you can use for inspiration. Check it out:

Now all you need is to turn the music on and get down to writing! We hope you liked this guide. If you did, don’t hesitate to share it with your friends.

✏️ Music Essay FAQ

Music is a vast topic. An essay might deal with anything ranging from trends in the 1950s to the best guitarists of all time. Writing an introduction to certain music styles or bands is also possible. In any case, the paper should be well-structured, logical, and cohesive.

Writing about music doesn’t necessarily require any specific skills. If you’re not familiar with the theory of music and can’t play musical instruments, you can just write about the music you like. Here are some topic ideas: favorite music band, style, or how you perceive music.

You can interpret music as a topic in various ways. If you are getting a degree in this field, you might want to write something more specific and technical. If your essay aims to merely inform and entertain, write about your favorite music style or band.

If you are writing an essay for school, a good choice would be an expository essay. It doesn’t require any specific knowledge of the music industry. Title suggestions might be: “My perception of music,” “My favorite band,” “How music can change the world.”

What is the Music Industry? Definition and Facts: Study.com
What Music Do You Write To?: Writers & Artists
A Music Review: British Council
Music: UNC Writing Center: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Sound and Sense: Writing about Music: Colorado State University
Music analysis Research Papers: Academia.edu
The Power of Music Therapy: Belmont University
Musicology: Northwestern Bienen School of Music
Musicology: Areas of Study: Indiana State University
Music Facts: Facts.net
Music History from Primary Sources: Library of Congress
Music: Encyclopedia Britannica
A History of Classical Music: Part 1: The List
What Is Jazz: Smithsonian Institution
The 50 Greatest Composers of All Time: Classical Music
Musical Terms and Concepts: SUNY Potsdam
Ethnomusicology: University of Oxford
Music Research Process: Syracuse University
Journal of Popular Music Studies: University of California Press
The History of Pop Music in 5 Defining Decades: The Culture Trip
Music of the 20 th Century: Lumen Learning
Explainer: Indie Music: The Conversation
Your Brain on Music: University of Central Florida
Music and Health: Harvard University
The Psychological Function of Music Listening: NIH
Essays that Worked: Hamilton
Writing in Music: Writing Thesis Statements: The City University of New York
Academic Writing about Music: University of Denver
How to Write Song Lyrics: Berklee
Essay Introduction: University of Maryland
Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements: Purdue University
Writing Body Paragraphs: Monash University
Some Tips for Writing Efficient, Effective Body Paragraphs: University of California, Berkeley
Writing a Paper: Conclusions: Walden University
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Thank you very much for this post on music essay writing! You don’t know how long I looked for the helpful information on writing music essays!

Music takes an important part in my life. I wake up and go to bed listening to music. And now when I’m writing my music essay, I also listen to music. And it’s also a pleasure to read an article on how to write an essay on music!

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College Essay About Music: “Music Is My Life”

EssayEdge > Blog > College Essay About Music: “Music Is My Life”

Here, you will find an example for an admission essay about “Music in my Life” aimed to show the applicant’s originality. Look through it to find out the basic structure and main features of the well-done college essay.

“Music is My Life” Essay Sample

I am an addict. I tell people I could stop anytime, but deep inside, I know I am lying. I need to listen to music, to write music, to play music every day. I can’t go a whole day without, at the very least, humming or whistling the tunes that crowd my head. I sing myself hoarse each morning in the shower, and playing the trumpet leaves a red mouthpiece-shaped badge of courage on my lips all day. I suspect that if someone were to look at my blood under a microscope, they would see, between the platelets and t-cells, little black musical notes coursing through my body.

On many occasions I’ve woken my family (and perhaps the neighborhood) composing on the piano early in the morning. Other times, my mother will admonish, “It’s too late to play the trumpet.” But I can’t understand why people wouldn’t want to hear music any time of the day. Keeping the music bottled up is more than I can bear. “I never worry about you sneaking up on me,” my friend once admitted to me. “I’ve never seen you walking without humming or whistling to yourself.”

For me, playing the trumpet is the opiate of music in its purest form. I love to play in all types of ensembles. I’m not just addicted to one kind of music; I couldn’t imagine limiting myself like that. Choosing just one kind of music would be worse than choosing one food to eat for the rest of my life. Playing orchestral music, for example, I become a sharpshooter. Waiting, I hide behind rows of string players, ready to jump out with a staccato attack that pierces the hearts of the audience. Playing in an orchestra, I can be Atlas, holding the other musicians above my head, or Icarus, flying through a solo in a desperate attempt to reach the heavens.

Need help? Check out EssayEdge editing services:

Completely different, small jazz ensembles are like a conversation with your closest friends. “So,” someone asks, “what do you think about. . . .” We mull it over together, and then each has a say. I build on what the piano proclaimed, or disagree with the saxophone. Playing jazz like this makes me giddy; jazz musicians know that music isn’t little dots on a piece of paper, but a feeling that makes you want to stomp your feet, shout for joy, or grab a partner and swing. Taking a solo, I extend my wings, a baby bird jumping out of my nest for the first time. Flapping madly, I hope that by some act of seeming magic my music will fly on its own.

Not only am I an addict, I am also a pusher. The schools in the neighboring community are unable to afford musical instruction, so each week several other high school musicians and I teach music at an elementary school on the east side of town. I work with all of the trumpets for an hour before we join the other instruments to play as a band. Having tutored since freshman year, I’ve seen my students gradually improve. Four years ago, few of them could read music.

This year, one of my best students won a scholarship to the Stanford Jazz Workshop. Many students from the east side of town never continue on through high school. At our last homecoming game, all of my students came and played with the pep band. One student, who had been struggling in school, confided in me that playing with us had made him excited about attending high school for the first time. That afternoon, I saw a new music addiction forming; it was almost better than being hooked myself.

The given example of a well-done college essay “Music is my Life” aims to show how you can write an essay that works. Apart from this essay about music, see other samples of admission writings .

This sample is given not for mere reading. Applicants must check good samples from time to time to see the proper essay structure, the differences between writing styles, and even borrow some features. However, you’ll need to spend time editing your paper. If your skills in it are poor, our college essays editing service is ready to help you 24/7.

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Writing College Essays for Music School

by Steven Lipman

Before You Write…

Since the dawn of time, humans have expressed thoughts in writing. Whether documented on cave walls, ancient papyrus scrolls, hand-scribed Medieval codices, printed books beginning with Gutenberg, or computer devices in our day, the importance of communicating through written means has been a constant.

Those of you engaged in writing college essays about music , grad-school term papers, or applications for careers in the music industry are gaining awareness of the importance of developing solid writing skills. When communicating in writing with a party you have not yet met, your words will shape their first impression of you. Create your prose with care and precision.

Who Am I Talking to?

As a music journalist and editor, I offer some general observations that may prove helpful for those seeking to make a career in music. First, understand your audience. Are you writing a music personal statement or musical resume for a college admissions officer or someone who you hope will become your future boss? Make sure to adopt the proper tone. As you begin to network in the music industry, determine whether your missive should be business-like, warm and personable, or a combination of both. Know when to be formal and when it’s ok to be informal and conversational.

Writing a novel where you rely colorful imagery to portray a scene and have hundreds of pages to do it, is different from something of more limited scope. Be aware of when to express your thoughts as concisely as possible. Weed out extraneous words that don’t add meaning and clutter your ideas. I’m not advocating for dry, facts-only writing unless that is what’s needed (as in a résumé). In a personal essay, strike a balance by using colorful language and injecting some personality, but refrain from going down a bunny trail off topic. If your project or music college essay has a prescribed word count, make every word count!

Writing concisely takes discipline and effort. French philosopher and mathematician Blaise Pascal is quoted as writing: “If I had more time, I would have written a shorter letter.” It takes time and effort to make sure your document is tightly written and says what you need it to.

Noteworthy Basics

As with a great piece of music, make sure you have a catchy opening. Readers will form an opinion instantly about whether they are in for an interesting read or not. Make sure the areas you want to cover are balanced. Be mindful of how much space you want give to each topic you plan to address and give each its due. Alluding to music again, you need a strong finish, a thought-provoking ending.

There are countless common grammatical and punctuation mistakes, here are a few that crop up often. Be on the look out for disagreements between the subject and verb in a sentence. Make sure singular nouns are matched with singular verbs and vice versa. Avoid overly long sentences spliced together with numerous commas. If your sentence has too many ideas, break it into shorter ones so that your reader hasn’t forgotten your main point by the time he or she gets to the final period.

Be sure that you fully understand the definitions of any unusual words you choose. If there is any doubt, look it up. A misused word speaks volumes to your reader. As an editor, I encountered writers who had fallen in love with a pet word and were reluctant to give it up it even after learning it didn’t mean what they thought. Be as willing to change a misused word as you would to correct a wrong note.

Thinking of pet word choices, watch out for echoes. By that I mean the overuse of distinctive words—especially in a single or consecutive sentences. Use the find option in your word processing program to check the number of times a word appears.

Never Forget

Always take the time to proofread carefully. Often while writing, we get to the point where we no longer see typos or other issues. Have a parent, teacher, or a friend proof your document. If that’s not possible, take a break. Leave your draft over night if time permits and come back to it with fresh eyes another day. It never feels good to discover typos in your document after you’ve sent it out.

Most likely we are not writing things for the ages like Beowolf or the Dead Sea Scrolls, but your story is important here and now. The goal is to hold someone’s interest and convey information. Care as much about expressing yourself in writing as you do in music. Make it your best effort.

Help Writing College Essays for Music School Admissions

Inside Music Schools helps to prepare students for applying to music school. Contact us today to learn more about our services & how we can help.

Steve Lipman

Founder & President at Inside Music Schools | Insidemusicschools.com

Head of admissions and faculty member at Berklee College of Music for 40 years, Steve Lipman and our team at Inside Music Schools speak music as their primary language. We approach each client contact with open eyes, ears, and minds. As the country’s premier music school consultant, he advised students from the United States, Canada, China, Australia, Turkey, U.K., Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, Japan, Israel, and Italy.

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Beyoncé Is Boldly Defying Country’s Stereotypes

E very Black woman has been called a Jezebel. The term, which originates from the Bible, is one of the oldest examples of misogyny in the world. Instead of being heralded for her reign as Queen, the Phoenician princess (after whom the term was named) was slut-shamed and subjected to whorephobia. To this day, her name conjures up images of promiscuity.

For those raised in the church, young women and girls are encouraged to not have a “jezebel spirit” because a church girl can never be a whore. But for many Black women and girls, there is not an option to cast out or distance oneself from the Jezebel spirit, because according to America, we’ve been whores since 1619 . Although the hypersexualization of Black women did not come from the Bible, the ideal of a modern, chaste woman did. When the Bible found itself stateside, those ideals and beliefs began to disseminate throughout the 13 original colonies; any woman who was not white and shapely was a Jezebel . A woman meant to be feared. A woman meant to be isolated. A woman not meant to be seen. Because if this woman was seen, perceived, and respected, it would certainly be a sign of hell on Earth.

Black women have been raising hell on Earth, particularly in the South, for generations. Rissi Palmer, Holly G of Black Opry, and Kamara Thomas of Country Soul Songbook have been leading the charge through their activism to create better conditions for Black women not just in the South, but in country music. And with the release of Cowboy Carter , the second album in the Renaissance trilogy, Beyoncé has become the latest artist to challenge these norms.

Read More: Beyoncé Has Always Been Country

When Beyoncé arrived at the 65th Annual Grammy Awards on February 4, a visible change had occurred. Although the general public did not know at the time that she was officially making her foray back into country, she was leading the charge with her fashion. No longer was she adorned in the glistening silver chrome looks of Renaissance , Beyoncé, in her white shirt, Stetson hat, and oversized Black leather jacket and skirt, had become an outlaw. And country music loves an outlaw .

The problem is that country music only loves an outlaw when they are white. The outlaw movement , which started as a staunch rebuke against the red tape of Nashville, allowed white men in country music, such as Willie Nelson, to be seen as rebellious—but in a way that was not anti-Nashville. From Johnny Cash to George Jones to Merle Haggard , these hell raisers have not only been warmly embraced in country music but championed. And the way these artists would often display this defiant spirit was through their dress.

Historian and scholar Dr. Francesca Royster writes about country’s outlaw movement in Black Country Music : Listening for Revolutions : “As the Man in Black, Johnny Cash could stand up for injustices against incarcerated folks and other outsiders, his Black shirt, hat, and jeans trademarks for his heroically critical stance.” Royster continues, “Blackness’s association in mainstream white culture with danger, illegality, and outsiderhood was put to use in Cash’s career to lend an element of authenticity. These moments reveal how, for these white male outlaws, proximity to Blackness—particularly metaphorical Blackness—is the ultimate expression of outsiderhood.``

Yet it is Beyoncé’s Blackness that country took issue with in the first place. The most telling part of her Grammy outfit was not her choice to wear Pharrell Willliams’ Western-inspired menswear collection for Louis Vuttion, but the red manicure that accompanied it. The manicure, featured on the singer’s Instagram post from the night, was most noticeable when she gave her red nails a bite. Fashion and costume historian Shelby Ivey Christie equates Beyoncé’s red nails to setting off a flare, making everyone in Nashville aware about her re-entry into country music.

“There’s a Shakespearean saying about biting your thumb at someone, and that's to make fun of them,’” says Christie. “I feel that imagery is kind of that. She's biting her thumb at you. She's teasing you.”

It’s a tease that continued when Beyonce appeared at Super Bowl LVIII with Dolly Parton-esque hair and a Texas bombshell-inspired outfit . Compared to the Grammys, where the singer donned a straightforward western look, this felt more sultry, more seductive—almost as if the singer was invoking the spirit of the Jezebel.

The Jezebel has been known by many names, one of them being Jolene. In the country music lexicon, Jolene was immortalized by Parton as a beautiful red-headed woman with emerald green eyes and ivory skin who has the ability to take Parton’s man away from her. Similar to how the Jezebel Root has been historically used in Hoodoo practices to attract men of wealth and high status, Jolene became known as the woman to avoid unless you want the destruction of your household.

“Women in country can be seen as more bombshell glam,” says Christie. “I think [the Super Bowl] was kind of [Beyonce’s] moment to give us that and to show us that the country genre wasn’t something that was on her. It’s in her.” But compared to her first foray into country music where Beyoncé wore what culture journalist Victoria M. Massie noted was a “ voluminous Antebellum-style dress cut from African wax print ” in the visuals for “Daddy Lessons,” her second attempt into country is being done the Renaissance way.

The visuals for Cowboy Carter tell a story between the two, seamless acts. In act i, Beyoncé slyly introduced the country outlaw aesthetic by donning herself in a black fringed leather jacket for the album’s teaser trailer . At this year’s Gold Party , Beyoncé and Jay Z’s annual Oscars party, she fronted a more masculine aesthetic in a black Givenchy structured blazer and flared trousers. Both outfits were accompanied by a black cowboy hat—a playful homage to her Texas roots, which then took center stage in her album cover for Cowboy Carter . In a red, white, and blue latex outfit, a nod to her American and Texas roots, the singer’s posture feels reminiscent of painter Kehinde Wiley’s majestic compositions. (Wiley’s approach to painting, similarly to Beyoncé’s approach to country, is to bridge the gap between the past and present through the creative arts.) From her usage of Americana aesthetics to her platinum blonde locks, Beyoncé is giving the public an insight into her “ un-American life .”

The one thing that stands out most in Beyoncé's country era is her bleach blonde hair. Taking note from Parton, to be a blonde in Southern culture, in particular, has always been regarded as tacky and not tasteful. But as Parton famously said: “It takes a lot of money to look this cheap,” and with her new locks, Beyoncé is turning that stereotype on its head, too.

In the South, the societal norms that police women’s bodies, especially Black women’s bodies, stem from Christianity . And in country music, women are expected to present themselves in a particular way that adheres to those rules, despite not receiving adequate resources from their record labels. Even more-so, the sexual violence inflicted onto Black women’s bodies because they are curvier or more voluptuous are thought to be justified. As a result of these societal, cultural, and political forces, Black women are socialized to keep their distance from anything that could perceive them as Jezebel-like.

“Instead of men controlling themselves, respecting women's bodies, and having boundaries, it is the woman's responsibility to do that, by covering herself, by contorting herself into whatever boundary or rules are created to make them more palatable around men and to make them more palatable to the women peers around them,” says Christie. “That extends to color.”

There is a reason why Beyoncé decided to use the color red for “ Can’t B Broken ,” her Super Bowl commercial with Verizon. She wanted to be seen. She wanted to be heard. She wanted to tell Nashville that she is doing country her way, all the while honoring the legion of Black women in country music who came before her.

In the official visualizer for “ Texas Hold ‘Em ,” Beyoncé in a mixture of black and silver walks onto the screen in a beehive, side ponytail and bang, a clear homage to Linda Martell , the first Black female country star. The style, which was immortalized in the May 1970 issue of Ebony, shows Martell on a press tour at WSM Radio alongside fellow country music legend Jeannie C. Riley on the heels of Martell’s first appearance at the Grand Ole Opry in 1969. With this performance, Martell made history as the first Black female artist to perform on the highly esteemed music show.

But despite Martell’s legendary career, she experienced intense mistreatment and harassment by the country music industry. While at Plantation Records, the record label that she was signed to, Martell expressed discomfort with the label’s name because of its racist history. In addition to racial discomfort, she fell victim to a predatory contract. When she left Plantation Records, Shelby Singleton, the label founder, blacklisted Martell from any opportunities in the country music industry.

Read More: How Beyoncé Fits Into the Storied Legacy of Black Country

When Beyonce sweeps up her hair into an illustrious beehive and side swept bangs, it is a homage to Martell. Without saying a word, she is honoring the pioneering efforts of Martell and the Black women country artists of that time, while also sounding an alarm to the country music genre:that she expects to be treated with respect. For the entire world has their eyes on Beyoncé as she enters the country music industry for the second time. But it is not Beyoncé who should be in fear—it is Nashville.

In a celebratory dinner with her husband Jay Z to commemorate Valentine’s Day, Beyonce appeared in mourning dress . Her Black Southern Gothic look drew inspiration from the post-Civil war period where widows wore a mourning veil for an alloted period of time. The question is: whose death is she calling into existence? The death of the country genre? The death of the barriers that restrict Black women from achieving success in country? Or has she become death itself? An omen of what’s to come.

If Jezebel has to be one to kill the country genre, so be it. It is time for the church girl and the Jezebel to be seen as one in the same. It is time for the structures that govern and police Black women’s bodies to die. And it’s time we bury the old ways country music has been governed by into the ground.

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College Nut

The Best College Essays About Music

Music has been an integral part of human culture since the dawn of time. It has the power to move people, inspire creativity, and even heal. It’s no wonder that music is a popular topic for college essays. In this article, we will explore the best college essays about music and what makes them stand out.

The Power of Music

Music has a unique ability to connect with people on a deep emotional level. It can evoke memories, stir up emotions, and transport us to another time and place. The best college essays about music capture this power and use it to convey a message or tell a story.

In my essay, “The Healing Power of Music,” I shared my personal experience with music therapy. I talked about how music helped me cope with a difficult time in my life and how it inspired me to pursue a career in music therapy. I used specific examples of songs that had a significant impact on me and explained how they helped me heal.

Personal Connections to Music

Music is often deeply personal. It can reflect our identity, culture, and experiences. The best college essays about music use this personal connection to convey a unique perspective or insight.

In my essay, “The Soundtrack of My Life,” I shared how music has shaped my identity and cultural background. I talked about how my love for hip-hop and R&B music helped me connect with my African-American heritage and how it inspired me to pursue a career in music production. I used specific examples of songs and artists that had a significant impact on me and explained how they influenced my worldview.

Musical Analysis

Music is a complex art form that requires technical skill and creative expression. The best college essays about music showcase a deep understanding of musical theory and analysis, as well as an ability to communicate these concepts effectively.

In my essay, “The Art of Improvisation,” I explored the role of improvisation in jazz music. I talked about the technical skills required for improvisation and how it allows musicians to communicate with each other on a deep level. I used specific examples of jazz standards and explained how they demonstrate the principles of improvisation.

Music and Social Issues

Music has been used as a tool for social change throughout history. The best college essays about music use this connection to explore social issues and challenge the status quo.

In my essay, “The Power of Protest Music,” I explored the role of music in social movements. I talked about how musicians have used their platform to raise awareness about issues such as civil rights and environmentalism. I used specific examples of protest songs and explained how they inspired people to take action.

Creativity and Innovation

Music is a constantly evolving art form that requires creativity and innovation. The best college essays about music embrace this spirit of experimentation and explore new ideas and concepts.

In my essay, “The Future of Music,” I explored the impact of technology on the music industry. I talked about how streaming services and social media have changed the way we consume music and how musicians are adapting to these changes. I used specific examples of artists who have embraced technology in their music and explained how it has allowed them to reach new audiences.

In conclusion, the best college essays about music are those that capture the power of music to connect with people, convey personal connections, showcase musical analysis, explore social issues, and embrace creativity and innovation. If you’re writing a college essay about music, consider incorporating one or more of these elements to make your essay stand out.

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Music Argumentative Essay Topics: 25+ Ideas for Inspiration

by Antony W

April 21, 2023

Music is no doubt the best go-to stress buster for all of us. No wonder if you look around you, you’ll see people listening to music from all kinds of music devices you can name.

From Mp3 players and smartphones to PA systems and car stereos, the world around you is no doubt almost fully musical in form.

With news lyrics, celebrity gossips, artists, and new musical hits appearing on YouTube, Sound Cloud, and Spotify every day, there’s no limit to the number of argumentative essay topics on music.

From Robert Matthew Van Winkle fast rap to Dax hip-hop tunes, finding the right essay topic to explore just got easier. In this post, we give you a list of 30+ argumentative topics from which you can choose an appealing title to give your essay a fresh, breathtaking spin.

Music Argumentative Essay Topics

The following is a list of 30+ music argumentative essay topics that you can consider if you have no idea where to start – or if you need a title to start working on right away:

Is pop culture an evergreen vogue or a temporary fad?
Can we term fusion music as actual music?
White rappers are giving a bad name to the rap music genre
Pop music is worthy enough for our ears than rap music
Jazz music is dying out
Can we use music as treatment for mental health disorder?
Music influencers are a waste of time
People should not allow the playing of music in the realm of politics and political campaign
Digital music formats will completely wipe out physical copies from distribution
It’s impossible to enjoy music without understanding the lyrics
Metal music has a very bad influence on people’s behavior
EMD is pure noise, not music
One doesn’t need to have musical training to write lyrics and sing as natural talent is enough
Should School students should study music instead of learning how to dance
Is music an effective means of drawing in potential customers to a new product?
Music has the power to increase an individual’s level of productivity
Music isn’t as addictive as movies and television series
Children can learn music faster than adults
Music producers are not doing enough to promote musicians new to the industry
Are parental warning labels on music videos really necessary?
Music can’t affect a student’s ability to read and complete their homework
Social media presence and celebrity stays hugely contributes to the rate of an artist’s success.
Should companies incorporate music in their marketing campaigns?
Existing laws cannot stop people from realistically copying music
Music doesn’t help the world become a better place
Do music award events influence the type of music that many people listen to?
Music award shows create hostility among musicians more than they inspire creative art
Music should be a mandatory subject in literary school
Music producers are responsible for the moral degradation that stem from the production of explicit music
Can the entertainment industry prevent
Do certain genre of music, such as rap and hip-hop, generate violence?
It’s unethical to copyright traditional music
Can we borrow music from international artists without necessarily attributing their work?
Should the social controversies about a musician influence our decision to listen to their music?
Do musicians choose the genre of music depending on the instruments used?
Movie and TV production industries pay musician more for continuous use of their work.
Is music of the future generation will be more annoying than the current
Music that’s used to present bad and harmful ideologies should be banned
The advent of internet music has made physical music stores completely irrelevant
Music can help a person to mediate and find a greater purpose in life
Is listening to music more entertaining than watching movies or playing the 21st century video games?
Music genre has a limited number of tune variation
Is music without lyrics pure?
Should YouTube ban the publication of X-rated music completely?
Classical music is better than other music genres.
Companies such as Spotify and Deezer should stop charging people a monthly subscription to listen to music.
Offline music apps are a waste of time in the current internet-powered world.
Are piano music sheets relevant in the production of modern music?
Politicians use music as propaganda in political races.
Music has a positive impact on modern society.
Traditional old school music is better than modern music.
The production of explicit music videos should banned.
Is there a connection between different music genres?
Classical music doesn’t play any significant role in the production of music today
International music is better than local music
Does the ability to play piano automatically makes one an expert in writing music sheets?
There’s no connection between social class and music genre
Does music have a negative influence on society?
X-rated music has a negative effect on a listeners brain
Music is way better than other types of media
Music has more influence on culture than poetry does
Is writing music an art?
Writing music doesn’t reflect the way an artist thinks in their daily life
Do women play an important role in the production of music?
Women play a great role in the production of music
Modern pop music is badly written compared to the pop music of the 60s.
Celebrities who release music but have no musical talents should not be promoted to be as famous as professional musicians.
Violent lyrics in music plays a role in building a violent society
Are parental warning labels on music still relevant today?
Music band that have been inactive for years should not come back

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College Admissions , College Essays

The personal statement might just be the hardest part of your college application. Mostly this is because it has the least guidance and is the most open-ended. One way to understand what colleges are looking for when they ask you to write an essay is to check out the essays of students who already got in—college essays that actually worked. After all, they must be among the most successful of this weird literary genre.

In this article, I'll go through general guidelines for what makes great college essays great. I've also compiled an enormous list of 100+ actual sample college essays from 11 different schools. Finally, I'll break down two of these published college essay examples and explain why and how they work. With links to 177 full essays and essay excerpts , this article is a great resource for learning how to craft your own personal college admissions essay!

What Excellent College Essays Have in Common

Even though in many ways these sample college essays are very different from one other, they do share some traits you should try to emulate as you write your own essay.

Visible Signs of Planning

Building out from a narrow, concrete focus. You'll see a similar structure in many of the essays. The author starts with a very detailed story of an event or description of a person or place. After this sense-heavy imagery, the essay expands out to make a broader point about the author, and connects this very memorable experience to the author's present situation, state of mind, newfound understanding, or maturity level.

Knowing how to tell a story. Some of the experiences in these essays are one-of-a-kind. But most deal with the stuff of everyday life. What sets them apart is the way the author approaches the topic: analyzing it for drama and humor, for its moving qualities, for what it says about the author's world, and for how it connects to the author's emotional life.

Stellar Execution

A killer first sentence. You've heard it before, and you'll hear it again: you have to suck the reader in, and the best place to do that is the first sentence. Great first sentences are punchy. They are like cliffhangers, setting up an exciting scene or an unusual situation with an unclear conclusion, in order to make the reader want to know more. Don't take my word for it—check out these 22 first sentences from Stanford applicants and tell me you don't want to read the rest of those essays to find out what happens!

A lively, individual voice. Writing is for readers. In this case, your reader is an admissions officer who has read thousands of essays before yours and will read thousands after. Your goal? Don't bore your reader. Use interesting descriptions, stay away from clichés, include your own offbeat observations—anything that makes this essay sounds like you and not like anyone else.

Technical correctness. No spelling mistakes, no grammar weirdness, no syntax issues, no punctuation snafus—each of these sample college essays has been formatted and proofread perfectly. If this kind of exactness is not your strong suit, you're in luck! All colleges advise applicants to have their essays looked over several times by parents, teachers, mentors, and anyone else who can spot a comma splice. Your essay must be your own work, but there is absolutely nothing wrong with getting help polishing it.

And if you need more guidance, connect with PrepScholar's expert admissions consultants . These expert writers know exactly what college admissions committees look for in an admissions essay and chan help you craft an essay that boosts your chances of getting into your dream school.

Check out PrepScholar's Essay Editing and Coaching progra m for more details!

Want to write the perfect college application essay? Get professional help from PrepScholar.

Your dedicated PrepScholar Admissions counselor will craft your perfect college essay, from the ground up. We'll learn your background and interests, brainstorm essay topics, and walk you through the essay drafting process, step-by-step. At the end, you'll have a unique essay that you'll proudly submit to your top choice colleges.

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Links to Full College Essay Examples

Some colleges publish a selection of their favorite accepted college essays that worked, and I've put together a selection of over 100 of these.

Common App Essay Samples

Please note that some of these college essay examples may be responding to prompts that are no longer in use. The current Common App prompts are as follows:

1. Some students have a background, identity, interest, or talent that is so meaningful they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story. 2. The lessons we take from obstacles we encounter can be fundamental to later success. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure. How did it affect you, and what did you learn from the experience? 3. Reflect on a time when you questioned or challenged a belief or idea. What prompted your thinking? What was the outcome? 4. Reflect on something that someone has done for you that has made you happy or thankful in a surprising way. How has this gratitude affected or motivated you? 5. Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself or others. 6. Describe a topic, idea, or concept you find so engaging that it makes you lose all track of time. Why does it captivate you? What or who do you turn to when you want to learn more?

7. Share an essay on any topic of your choice. It can be one you've already written, one that responds to a different prompt, or one of your own design.

Now, let's get to the good stuff: the list of 177 college essay examples responding to current and past Common App essay prompts.

Connecticut college.

12 Common Application essays from the classes of 2022-2025

Hamilton College

7 Common Application essays from the class of 2026
7 Common Application essays from the class of 2022
7 Common Application essays from the class of 2018
8 Common Application essays from the class of 2012
8 Common Application essays from the class of 2007

Johns Hopkins

These essays are answers to past prompts from either the Common Application or the Coalition Application (which Johns Hopkins used to accept).

1 Common Application or Coalition Application essay from the class of 2026
6 Common Application or Coalition Application essays from the class of 2025
6 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2024
6 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2023
7 Common Application of Universal Application essays from the class of 2022
5 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2021
7 Common Application or Universal Application essays from the class of 2020

Essay Examples Published by Other Websites

2 Common Application essays ( 1st essay , 2nd essay ) from applicants admitted to Columbia

Other Sample College Essays

Here is a collection of essays that are college-specific.

Babson College

4 essays (and 1 video response) on "Why Babson" from the class of 2020

Emory University

5 essay examples ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) from the class of 2020 along with analysis from Emory admissions staff on why the essays were exceptional
5 more recent essay examples ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ) along with analysis from Emory admissions staff on what made these essays stand out

University of Georgia

1 “strong essay” sample from 2019
1 “strong essay” sample from 2018
10 Harvard essays from 2023
10 Harvard essays from 2022
10 Harvard essays from 2021
10 Harvard essays from 2020
10 Harvard essays from 2019
10 Harvard essays from 2018
6 essays from admitted MIT students

Smith College

6 "best gift" essays from the class of 2018

Books of College Essays

If you're looking for even more sample college essays, consider purchasing a college essay book. The best of these include dozens of essays that worked and feedback from real admissions officers.

College Essays That Made a Difference —This detailed guide from Princeton Review includes not only successful essays, but also interviews with admissions officers and full student profiles.

50 Successful Harvard Application Essays by the Staff of the Harvard Crimson—A must for anyone aspiring to Harvard .

50 Successful Ivy League Application Essays and 50 Successful Stanford Application Essays by Gen and Kelly Tanabe—For essays from other top schools, check out this venerated series, which is regularly updated with new essays.

Heavenly Essays by Janine W. Robinson—This collection from the popular blogger behind Essay Hell includes a wider range of schools, as well as helpful tips on honing your own essay.

Analyzing Great Common App Essays That Worked

I've picked two essays from the examples collected above to examine in more depth so that you can see exactly what makes a successful college essay work. Full credit for these essays goes to the original authors and the schools that published them.

Example 1: "Breaking Into Cars," by Stephen, Johns Hopkins Class of '19 (Common App Essay, 636 words long)

I had never broken into a car before.

We were in Laredo, having just finished our first day at a Habitat for Humanity work site. The Hotchkiss volunteers had already left, off to enjoy some Texas BBQ, leaving me behind with the college kids to clean up. Not until we were stranded did we realize we were locked out of the van.

Someone picked a coat hanger out of the dumpster, handed it to me, and took a few steps back.

"Can you do that thing with a coat hanger to unlock it?"

"Why me?" I thought.

More out of amusement than optimism, I gave it a try. I slid the hanger into the window's seal like I'd seen on crime shows, and spent a few minutes jiggling the apparatus around the inside of the frame. Suddenly, two things simultaneously clicked. One was the lock on the door. (I actually succeeded in springing it.) The other was the realization that I'd been in this type of situation before. In fact, I'd been born into this type of situation.

My upbringing has numbed me to unpredictability and chaos. With a family of seven, my home was loud, messy, and spottily supervised. My siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing—all meant my house was functioning normally. My Dad, a retired Navy pilot, was away half the time. When he was home, he had a parenting style something like a drill sergeant. At the age of nine, I learned how to clear burning oil from the surface of water. My Dad considered this a critical life skill—you know, in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed. "The water's on fire! Clear a hole!" he shouted, tossing me in the lake without warning. While I'm still unconvinced about that particular lesson's practicality, my Dad's overarching message is unequivocally true: much of life is unexpected, and you have to deal with the twists and turns.

Living in my family, days rarely unfolded as planned. A bit overlooked, a little pushed around, I learned to roll with reality, negotiate a quick deal, and give the improbable a try. I don't sweat the small stuff, and I definitely don't expect perfect fairness. So what if our dining room table only has six chairs for seven people? Someone learns the importance of punctuality every night.

But more than punctuality and a special affinity for musical chairs, my family life has taught me to thrive in situations over which I have no power. Growing up, I never controlled my older siblings, but I learned how to thwart their attempts to control me. I forged alliances, and realigned them as necessary. Sometimes, I was the poor, defenseless little brother; sometimes I was the omniscient elder. Different things to different people, as the situation demanded. I learned to adapt.

Back then, these techniques were merely reactions undertaken to ensure my survival. But one day this fall, Dr. Hicks, our Head of School, asked me a question that he hoped all seniors would reflect on throughout the year: "How can I participate in a thing I do not govern, in the company of people I did not choose?"

The question caught me off guard, much like the question posed to me in Laredo. Then, I realized I knew the answer. I knew why the coat hanger had been handed to me.

Growing up as the middle child in my family, I was a vital participant in a thing I did not govern, in the company of people I did not choose. It's family. It's society. And often, it's chaos. You participate by letting go of the small stuff, not expecting order and perfection, and facing the unexpected with confidence, optimism, and preparedness. My family experience taught me to face a serendipitous world with confidence.

What Makes This Essay Tick?

It's very helpful to take writing apart in order to see just how it accomplishes its objectives. Stephen's essay is very effective. Let's find out why!

An Opening Line That Draws You In

In just eight words, we get: scene-setting (he is standing next to a car about to break in), the idea of crossing a boundary (he is maybe about to do an illegal thing for the first time), and a cliffhanger (we are thinking: is he going to get caught? Is he headed for a life of crime? Is he about to be scared straight?).

Great, Detailed Opening Story

It's the details that really make this small experience come alive. Notice how whenever he can, Stephen uses a more specific, descriptive word in place of a more generic one. The volunteers aren't going to get food or dinner; they're going for "Texas BBQ." The coat hanger comes from "a dumpster." Stephen doesn't just move the coat hanger—he "jiggles" it.

Details also help us visualize the emotions of the people in the scene. The person who hands Stephen the coat hanger isn't just uncomfortable or nervous; he "takes a few steps back"—a description of movement that conveys feelings. Finally, the detail of actual speech makes the scene pop. Instead of writing that the other guy asked him to unlock the van, Stephen has the guy actually say his own words in a way that sounds like a teenager talking.

Turning a Specific Incident Into a Deeper Insight

Suddenly, two things simultaneously clicked. One was the lock on the door. (I actually succeeded in springing it.) The other was the realization that I'd been in this type of situation before. In fact, I'd been born into this type of situation.

Stephen makes the locked car experience a meaningful illustration of how he has learned to be resourceful and ready for anything, and he also makes this turn from the specific to the broad through an elegant play on the two meanings of the word "click."

Using Concrete Examples When Making Abstract Claims

"Unpredictability and chaos" are very abstract, not easily visualized concepts. They could also mean any number of things—violence, abandonment, poverty, mental instability. By instantly following up with highly finite and unambiguous illustrations like "family of seven" and "siblings arguing, the dog barking, the phone ringing," Stephen grounds the abstraction in something that is easy to picture: a large, noisy family.

Using Small Bits of Humor and Casual Word Choice

My Dad, a retired Navy pilot, was away half the time. When he was home, he had a parenting style something like a drill sergeant. At the age of nine, I learned how to clear burning oil from the surface of water. My Dad considered this a critical life skill—you know, in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed.

Obviously, knowing how to clean burning oil is not high on the list of things every 9-year-old needs to know. To emphasize this, Stephen uses sarcasm by bringing up a situation that is clearly over-the-top: "in case my aircraft carrier should ever get torpedoed."

The humor also feels relaxed. Part of this is because he introduces it with the colloquial phrase "you know," so it sounds like he is talking to us in person. This approach also diffuses the potential discomfort of the reader with his father's strictness—since he is making jokes about it, clearly he is OK. Notice, though, that this doesn't occur very much in the essay. This helps keep the tone meaningful and serious rather than flippant.

An Ending That Stretches the Insight Into the Future

But one day this fall, Dr. Hicks, our Head of School, asked me a question that he hoped all seniors would reflect on throughout the year: "How can I participate in a thing I do not govern, in the company of people I did not choose?"

The ending of the essay reveals that Stephen's life has been one long preparation for the future. He has emerged from chaos and his dad's approach to parenting as a person who can thrive in a world that he can't control.

This connection of past experience to current maturity and self-knowledge is a key element in all successful personal essays. Colleges are very much looking for mature, self-aware applicants. These are the qualities of successful college students, who will be able to navigate the independence college classes require and the responsibility and quasi-adulthood of college life.

What Could This Essay Do Even Better?

Even the best essays aren't perfect, and even the world's greatest writers will tell you that writing is never "finished"—just "due." So what would we tweak in this essay if we could?

Replace some of the clichéd language. Stephen uses handy phrases like "twists and turns" and "don't sweat the small stuff" as a kind of shorthand for explaining his relationship to chaos and unpredictability. But using too many of these ready-made expressions runs the risk of clouding out your own voice and replacing it with something expected and boring.

Use another example from recent life. Stephen's first example (breaking into the van in Laredo) is a great illustration of being resourceful in an unexpected situation. But his essay also emphasizes that he "learned to adapt" by being "different things to different people." It would be great to see how this plays out outside his family, either in the situation in Laredo or another context.

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Example 2: By Renner Kwittken, Tufts Class of '23 (Common App Essay, 645 words long)

My first dream job was to be a pickle truck driver. I saw it in my favorite book, Richard Scarry's "Cars and Trucks and Things That Go," and for some reason, I was absolutely obsessed with the idea of driving a giant pickle. Much to the discontent of my younger sister, I insisted that my parents read us that book as many nights as possible so we could find goldbug, a small little golden bug, on every page. I would imagine the wonderful life I would have: being a pig driving a giant pickle truck across the country, chasing and finding goldbug. I then moved on to wanting to be a Lego Master. Then an architect. Then a surgeon.

Then I discovered a real goldbug: gold nanoparticles that can reprogram macrophages to assist in killing tumors, produce clear images of them without sacrificing the subject, and heat them to obliteration.

Suddenly the destination of my pickle was clear.

I quickly became enveloped by the world of nanomedicine; I scoured articles about liposomes, polymeric micelles, dendrimers, targeting ligands, and self-assembling nanoparticles, all conquering cancer in some exotic way. Completely absorbed, I set out to find a mentor to dive even deeper into these topics. After several rejections, I was immensely grateful to receive an invitation to work alongside Dr. Sangeeta Ray at Johns Hopkins.

In the lab, Dr. Ray encouraged a great amount of autonomy to design and implement my own procedures. I chose to attack a problem that affects the entire field of nanomedicine: nanoparticles consistently fail to translate from animal studies into clinical trials. Jumping off recent literature, I set out to see if a pre-dose of a common chemotherapeutic could enhance nanoparticle delivery in aggressive prostate cancer, creating three novel constructs based on three different linear polymers, each using fluorescent dye (although no gold, sorry goldbug!). Though using radioactive isotopes like Gallium and Yttrium would have been incredible, as a 17-year-old, I unfortunately wasn't allowed in the same room as these radioactive materials (even though I took a Geiger counter to a pair of shoes and found them to be slightly dangerous).

I hadn't expected my hypothesis to work, as the research project would have ideally been led across two full years. Yet while there are still many optimizations and revisions to be done, I was thrilled to find -- with completely new nanoparticles that may one day mean future trials will use particles with the initials "RK-1" -- thatcyclophosphamide did indeed increase nanoparticle delivery to the tumor in a statistically significant way.

A secondary, unexpected research project was living alone in Baltimore, a new city to me, surrounded by people much older than I. Even with moving frequently between hotels, AirBnB's, and students' apartments, I strangely reveled in the freedom I had to enjoy my surroundings and form new friendships with graduate school students from the lab. We explored The Inner Harbor at night, attended a concert together one weekend, and even got to watch the Orioles lose (to nobody's surprise). Ironically, it's through these new friendships I discovered something unexpected: what I truly love is sharing research. Whether in a presentation or in a casual conversation, making others interested in science is perhaps more exciting to me than the research itself. This solidified a new pursuit to angle my love for writing towards illuminating science in ways people can understand, adding value to a society that can certainly benefit from more scientific literacy.

It seems fitting that my goals are still transforming: in Scarry's book, there is not just one goldbug, there is one on every page. With each new experience, I'm learning that it isn't the goldbug itself, but rather the act of searching for the goldbugs that will encourage, shape, and refine my ever-evolving passions. Regardless of the goldbug I seek -- I know my pickle truck has just begun its journey.

Renner takes a somewhat different approach than Stephen, but their essay is just as detailed and engaging. Let's go through some of the strengths of this essay.

One Clear Governing Metaphor

This essay is ultimately about two things: Renner’s dreams and future career goals, and Renner’s philosophy on goal-setting and achieving one’s dreams.

But instead of listing off all the amazing things they’ve done to pursue their dream of working in nanomedicine, Renner tells a powerful, unique story instead. To set up the narrative, Renner opens the essay by connecting their experiences with goal-setting and dream-chasing all the way back to a memorable childhood experience:

This lighthearted–but relevant!--story about the moment when Renner first developed a passion for a specific career (“finding the goldbug”) provides an anchor point for the rest of the essay. As Renner pivots to describing their current dreams and goals–working in nanomedicine–the metaphor of “finding the goldbug” is reflected in Renner’s experiments, rejections, and new discoveries.

Though Renner tells multiple stories about their quest to “find the goldbug,” or, in other words, pursue their passion, each story is connected by a unifying theme; namely, that as we search and grow over time, our goals will transform…and that’s okay! By the end of the essay, Renner uses the metaphor of “finding the goldbug” to reiterate the relevance of the opening story:

While the earlier parts of the essay convey Renner’s core message by showing, the final, concluding paragraph sums up Renner’s insights by telling. By briefly and clearly stating the relevance of the goldbug metaphor to their own philosophy on goals and dreams, Renner demonstrates their creativity, insight, and eagerness to grow and evolve as the journey continues into college.

An Engaging, Individual Voice

This essay uses many techniques that make Renner sound genuine and make the reader feel like we already know them.

Technique #1: humor. Notice Renner's gentle and relaxed humor that lightly mocks their younger self's grand ambitions (this is different from the more sarcastic kind of humor used by Stephen in the first essay—you could never mistake one writer for the other).

My first dream job was to be a pickle truck driver.

I would imagine the wonderful life I would have: being a pig driving a giant pickle truck across the country, chasing and finding goldbug. I then moved on to wanting to be a Lego Master. Then an architect. Then a surgeon.

Renner gives a great example of how to use humor to your advantage in college essays. You don’t want to come off as too self-deprecating or sarcastic, but telling a lightheartedly humorous story about your younger self that also showcases how you’ve grown and changed over time can set the right tone for your entire essay.

Technique #2: intentional, eye-catching structure. The second technique is the way Renner uses a unique structure to bolster the tone and themes of their essay . The structure of your essay can have a major impact on how your ideas come across…so it’s important to give it just as much thought as the content of your essay!

For instance, Renner does a great job of using one-line paragraphs to create dramatic emphasis and to make clear transitions from one phase of the story to the next:

Suddenly the destination of my pickle car was clear.

Not only does the one-liner above signal that Renner is moving into a new phase of the narrative (their nanoparticle research experiences), it also tells the reader that this is a big moment in Renner’s story. It’s clear that Renner made a major discovery that changed the course of their goal pursuit and dream-chasing. Through structure, Renner conveys excitement and entices the reader to keep pushing forward to the next part of the story.

Technique #3: playing with syntax. The third technique is to use sentences of varying length, syntax, and structure. Most of the essay's written in standard English and uses grammatically correct sentences. However, at key moments, Renner emphasizes that the reader needs to sit up and pay attention by switching to short, colloquial, differently punctuated, and sometimes fragmented sentences.

Even with moving frequently between hotels, AirBnB's, and students' apartments, I strangely reveled in the freedom I had to enjoy my surroundings and form new friendships with graduate school students from the lab. We explored The Inner Harbor at night, attended a concert together one weekend, and even got to watch the Orioles lose (to nobody's surprise). Ironically, it's through these new friendships I discovered something unexpected: what I truly love is sharing research.

In the examples above, Renner switches adeptly between long, flowing sentences and quippy, telegraphic ones. At the same time, Renner uses these different sentence lengths intentionally. As they describe their experiences in new places, they use longer sentences to immerse the reader in the sights, smells, and sounds of those experiences. And when it’s time to get a big, key idea across, Renner switches to a short, punchy sentence to stop the reader in their tracks.

The varying syntax and sentence lengths pull the reader into the narrative and set up crucial “aha” moments when it’s most important…which is a surefire way to make any college essay stand out.

Renner's essay is very strong, but there are still a few little things that could be improved.

Connecting the research experiences to the theme of “finding the goldbug.” The essay begins and ends with Renner’s connection to the idea of “finding the goldbug.” And while this metaphor is deftly tied into the essay’s intro and conclusion, it isn’t entirely clear what Renner’s big findings were during the research experiences that are described in the middle of the essay. It would be great to add a sentence or two stating what Renner’s big takeaways (or “goldbugs”) were from these experiences, which add more cohesion to the essay as a whole.

Give more details about discovering the world of nanomedicine. It makes sense that Renner wants to get into the details of their big research experiences as quickly as possible. After all, these are the details that show Renner’s dedication to nanomedicine! But a smoother transition from the opening pickle car/goldbug story to Renner’s “real goldbug” of nanoparticles would help the reader understand why nanoparticles became Renner’s goldbug. Finding out why Renner is so motivated to study nanomedicine–and perhaps what put them on to this field of study–would help readers fully understand why Renner chose this path in the first place.

4 Essential Tips for Writing Your Own Essay

How can you use this discussion to better your own college essay? Here are some suggestions for ways to use this resource effectively.

#1: Get Help From the Experts

Getting your college applications together takes a lot of work and can be pretty intimidatin g. Essays are even more important than ever now that admissions processes are changing and schools are going test-optional and removing diversity standards thanks to new Supreme Court rulings . If you want certified expert help that really makes a difference, get started with PrepScholar’s Essay Editing and Coaching program. Our program can help you put together an incredible essay from idea to completion so that your application stands out from the crowd. We've helped students get into the best colleges in the United States, including Harvard, Stanford, and Yale. If you're ready to take the next step and boost your odds of getting into your dream school, connect with our experts today .

#2: Read Other Essays to Get Ideas for Your Own

As you go through the essays we've compiled for you above, ask yourself the following questions:

Can you explain to yourself (or someone else!) why the opening sentence works well?
Look for the essay's detailed personal anecdote. What senses is the author describing? Can you easily picture the scene in your mind's eye?
Find the place where this anecdote bridges into a larger insight about the author. How does the essay connect the two? How does the anecdote work as an example of the author's characteristic, trait, or skill?
Check out the essay's tone. If it's funny, can you find the places where the humor comes from? If it's sad and moving, can you find the imagery and description of feelings that make you moved? If it's serious, can you see how word choice adds to this tone?

Make a note whenever you find an essay or part of an essay that you think was particularly well-written, and think about what you like about it . Is it funny? Does it help you really get to know the writer? Does it show what makes the writer unique? Once you have your list, keep it next to you while writing your essay to remind yourself to try and use those same techniques in your own essay.

#3: Find Your "A-Ha!" Moment

All of these essays rely on connecting with the reader through a heartfelt, highly descriptive scene from the author's life. It can either be very dramatic (did you survive a plane crash?) or it can be completely mundane (did you finally beat your dad at Scrabble?). Either way, it should be personal and revealing about you, your personality, and the way you are now that you are entering the adult world.

Check out essays by authors like John Jeremiah Sullivan , Leslie Jamison , Hanif Abdurraqib , and Esmé Weijun Wang to get more examples of how to craft a compelling personal narrative.

#4: Start Early, Revise Often

Let me level with you: the best writing isn't writing at all. It's rewriting. And in order to have time to rewrite, you have to start way before the application deadline. My advice is to write your first draft at least two months before your applications are due.

Let it sit for a few days untouched. Then come back to it with fresh eyes and think critically about what you've written. What's extra? What's missing? What is in the wrong place? What doesn't make sense? Don't be afraid to take it apart and rearrange sections. Do this several times over, and your essay will be much better for it!

For more editing tips, check out a style guide like Dreyer's English or Eats, Shoots & Leaves .

What's Next?

Still not sure which colleges you want to apply to? Our experts will show you how to make a college list that will help you choose a college that's right for you.

Interested in learning more about college essays? Check out our detailed breakdown of exactly how personal statements work in an application , some suggestions on what to avoid when writing your essay , and our guide to writing about your extracurricular activities .

Working on the rest of your application? Read what admissions officers wish applicants knew before applying .

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

The recommendations in this post are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links PrepScholar may receive a commission.

Anna scored in the 99th percentile on her SATs in high school, and went on to major in English at Princeton and to get her doctorate in English Literature at Columbia. She is passionate about improving student access to higher education.

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Casper College Sound Design Program: Crafting Artistic Soundscapes with Third Rail of Cheyenne and Saratoga

Mar 25, 2024 | Campus and Community , Casper College News , School of Fine Arts and Humanities

Photo of band Third Rail for Third Rail press release.

Third Rail performing at the Gaslight Social in Casper, Wyoming. Members of the band, first row, l-r; Bill Snow, lead guitar and lap steel; Casey Jones, lead singer and acoustic guitar; Logan Feezer, fiddle and guitar. Back row, l-r: Devin Smith, drums and harmony vocals and Connor Koch, bass guitar. (Casper College photo)

In an exciting collaboration, the Sound Design Program at Casper College recently embarked on a unique learning experience by recording two singles for the country music band Third Rail out of Cheyenne and Saratoga. This hands-on project not only provided students with a practical application of their sound design skills but also allowed Third Rail the benefit of a state-of-the-art recording studio and the fresh talent of students.

Third Rail: A dream in the making.

“Third Rail is a band I put together over five years ago after committing to playing a street dance for Lingle, Wyoming’s 100-year anniversary in 2018. The gig came before the band,” says lead singer Casey Jones, lead singer/acoustic guitar/mandolin, who’d been playing live with fiddle and guitar player Logan Feezer and his cousin Alan Jones.

Casey Jones and The Trainwreck played the Lingle gig, a name that later changed to Third Rail with the addition of three new band members later in 2018. Third Rail is in reference to the additional rail added to a railway locomotive or train supplying electrical current according to the band’s website. Their music certainly is energizing.

Casey Jones, founder of Third Rail, is shown playing and singing one of the songs he has written for the band during a recent recording session at Casper College. (Casper College photo)

Jones says he believes it’s a blend of influences and strengths that ultimately led to Third Rail’s sound, including newer country sounds and songwriting like the Turnpike Troubadours and Wade Bowen, older traditional country like Merle Haggard and Vince Gill, and a touch of rock-n-roll that most of them grew up playing.

He also happens to be a talented songwriter with work he’d written in notebooks dating back to his high school years. Many of Third Rail’s originals have been written since the band formed to fit its unique sound and the individual talents of its musicians.

The band travels regionally, performing in a number of different live venues. In 2021, they released their first album, “Centerline,” available on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Music. The album includes songs written by Jones about his life experiences and journeys.

In addition to Jones, now living in Saratoga, and Feezer, Third Rail’s musicians include Bill Snow, lead guitar/lap steel, Devin Smith, drums/harmony vocals, and Connor Koch, bass guitar. “We really enjoy the music and the opportunity to perform together. Each of the musicians in the band brings a ton of talent and experience,” says Feezer. It’s a blast watching these guys put together their music for a song.”

A Call Out to Musicians:

Each year, Casper College sound design instructor Larry Burger puts a call out to area musicians to come record at the college. Burger was fortunate to already have a connection with Third Rail, which is scheduled to perform in Casper at The Gaslight Social.

“My goal for students in the program is to take them through the recording process, from A-Z, where they learn everything from setup to expertly running the software and recognizing potential issues in the recording,” says Burger. “Involving professional musicians in their learning process is a great way to give them hands-on experience.”

“It was exciting for us to be able to get the band together and to work on new music,” says Jones. “Knowing that we’re helping students to learn was a big bonus.”

Much Like Music, Recording is Its Own Art Form

Recording music is much different from performing it live, says Burger. His experience was on full display during the recording session as he guided students through the process and worked with the musicians to fine-tune their sound.

The band played together, and then musicians individually perfected their parts in separate recordings. The students brought it all together into a final recording that will be mastered over the coming several weeks.

“It was surprising for me to see how much effort the students put into our recording session. They were on-point the whole time and actually ran the majority of the recording session themselves,” says Jones.

The two singles, titled “I’ll Get All This” and “It’ll Work Out … or not?” presented diverse musical challenges that engaged the students in various aspects of production. The band plans on releasing the singles later this year as they kick off their summer performances.

Photo of Casper College students setting up equipment in a recording studio.

Students of the Sound Design Program at Casper College work on setting up the equipment needed to record a session with Wyoming band Third Rail recently. L-r: Bridger Jones, Alyssa Bullock, Laura Kearns, and Gregory Kearns. (Casper College photo)

Hands-On Learning for Students:

For the students enrolled in the Casper College Sound Design Program, this collaboration was a transformative learning experience. The opportunity to work with a professional band like Third Rail allowed them to apply their skills in a real-world context, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and problem-solving in a live recording environment.

The hands-on nature of the project gave students a chance to work with state-of-the-art equipment, refine their critical listening skills, and collaborate with a musical ensemble. The experience not only enhanced their technical proficiency but also instilled a deep appreciation for the collaborative nature of their work.

After recording, the students went to The Gaslight Social to enjoy the band at their live performance.

Photo of people looking at a large TV screen while participating in a recording session at Casper College.

Students enrolled in the Sound Design Program at Casper College go over recording levels with instructor Larry Burger, center. Students in the program work hands-on with state-of-the-art recording equipment with actual bands from Wyoming. Students pictured, l-r: Alyssa Bullock; sitting in chair behind elbow, Laura Kearns; Gregory Kearns; and Bridger Jones. (Casper College photo)

Photo of two musicians practicing in a recording studio at Casper College.

Fiddle player and guitarist Logan Feezer, foreground, rehearses with bass guitar player Connor Koch, prior to a recording session at Casper College. The two are part of the band Third Rail and were at the college to take advantage of the professional studio and recording opportunities available to the band through the Sound Design Program at Casper College. (Casper College photo)

Impact on Third Rail:

Third Rail, known for their music and ability to put country dancers on the floor, found the collaboration with the Casper College Sound Design Program to be a refreshing and enriching experience. The students’ creative input and technical expertise made it possible for the band to record their new music and share two more of Jones’ stories and life experiences.

“It was so fun doing this and being able to sit back and experience the talent of the musicians in Third Rail. It gave me a greater appreciation of what we have to offer through our music,” says Jones. “Maybe I’ll write a song about it.”

We All Travel Together:

The collaboration between Third Rail and the Casper College class not only produced two exciting singles but also exemplified the power of partnerships between seasoned professionals and emerging talents. This unique venture showcased the potential for creativity, learning, and community building within the realm of music. As both Third Rail and the students continue their respective journeys, the echoes of this collaboration are sure to resonate in the music produced by the band and the careers of the budding musicians involved.

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Is beyoncé’s new album country.

Release ignites hot talk about genre’s less-discussed Black roots, what constitutes authenticity

Christina Pazzanese

Harvard Staff Writer

Beyonce wearing a cowboy hat at the Grammy Awards.

Kevin Mazur/Getty Images

The scheduled release this week of Beyoncé’s new, country-inflected album, “Act II: Cowboy Carter” (containing the single “Texas Hold ’Em,” the first No. 1 country hit by a Black woman), has sparked media coverage about the overlooked influence of Black musicians on the genre and criticism of the singer’s intent to enter the arena and turn a spotlight on that heritage.

The roots of country music are popularly associated with rural white Southerners who brought their Celtic, Scottish, British, and Acadian folk traditions to the New World. But historians have long noted the genre owes a major debt to Black hymnals, gospel, spirituals, field songs, jazz, and the blues.

Some of country’s pioneering stars in the first half of the 20th century, such as Jimmie Rodgers (regarded as the “father of country music”) and the Carter Family, were influenced by unsung Black musicians and had hits with their songs. And the banjo, country’s signature sound, was first introduced by enslaved Africans.

Emmett G. Price III is a musician and founding dean of Africana Studies at Berklee College of Music who writes extensively about Black music and culture. He was a visiting professor of music at Harvard University in 2022-2023. The Gazette spoke with Price about Beyoncé’s new project and what constitutes authentic country music. The interview has been edited for clarity and length.

Emmett G. Price III, founding dean of Africana Studies, Berklee College of Music.

File photo by Stephanie Mitchell/Harvard Staff Photographer

Critics have suggested Beyoncé has not made a true country album but just picked up superficial trappings — donning a cowboy hat and adding banjo and fiddle to pop music. She herself says she made a “Beyoncé album” not a country album. What do you make of this discussion?

Her two tracks, “16 Carriages” and particularly “Texas Hold ’Em,” pay homage to the various styles, sentiments, and Black people in country music over the years. In many ways, the debate from her new release is exactly the conversation she was trying to instigate.

Country music, or country and western going back to the 1920s, is one of a number of descendants of what we know as the blues and as spirituals. When you add the over-fascination of race in our nation, particularly during the ’20s through the ’60s, you’ll understand why there’s such huge pushback on having a Black woman be the “face” of country music.

She’s “supposed” to be in R&B or in hip-hop or in gospel. People are claiming cultural spaces without paying homage to the early influencers. I think the debate is heated on all sides because this is cultural real estate that folks are talking about, and nobody wants to give up any real estate.

Musicians often share ideas and influences in many genres of American popular music, including country. How did country music become thought of solely as an expression of white culture?

All of the American forms of music are combinations and merging and syntheses of different sounds because the populations they spoke to had influence and impact on them. I think the question is beautiful because it’s a conflation of the history of radio, particularly in the United States of America, as well as the history of charts like the Billboard chart.

Radio, depending on where you lived, particularly in the early days, you really only had two stations — off and on. And you couldn’t see who was on the radio. A number of artists, such as Big Mama Thornton, who most people have no awareness of — “Hound Dog” was her song before Elvis Presley covered it. And when he covered it, there was a huge trajectory that happened. White artists were able to get their versions of songs played, and Black artists went into obscurity because they didn’t have any sales. Radio was the way to expand one’s reach and influence. That’s the first thing.

And then, the Billboard charts began in the mid-teens to track who the top sellers of sheet music were. By the late ’20s and into the ’30s, they began keeping track of the top-selling records based on whatever classification was used to stereotype and phenotype the sounds and sentiments. Of course, that was all up and down racial lines.

So, our over-fascination with race plays a huge role in how we experience different types of music. Having said that, there were still Black artists back in those days, who were creating things that would be considered country music.

Who were some of the important, lesser-known Black country musicians and songwriters?

DeFord Bailey is the kicker for me, just an unknown legend who was tremendously influential and is absolutely forgotten. Charley Pride is another one. I will even say Ray Charles, who has a tremendous legacy in the country space. Rufus Payne was another cat, not well-known. He went by the nickname “Tee Tot.” Hank Williams met him when Hank Williams was a child and Paine was a street performer. Linda Martell is another one who is not well-known. The Neville Brothers, particularly Aaron Neville, and Darius Rucker, who pays homage to Aaron Neville.

In contemporary times, you can’t talk about country without talking about Rhiannon Giddens [artistic director of Harvard’s Silkroad Ensemble]. Not only through her presence on Beyonce’s “Texas Hold ’Em,” but what she had been doing for years with the Carolina Chocolate Drops and the great legacy that comes from that tradition.

Why have these artists, especially those who mentored country legends like Rodgers and the Carters, gotten so little attention? Were they not able to record?

Some of the Black artists actually did record, but they would have recorded on obsolete labels that maybe pressed 100 albums that were sitting in somebody’s basement or garage. If you had a recording, but you didn’t have any distribution through radio play, nobody knew you had a record.

There were some phenomenal musicians who clearly were phenomenal enough to be inspirations, if not mentors, but not phenomenal enough to be on the cover and put out as artists.

You also have the important third rail of Jim Crow South. Because of segregation, even if I was a promoter or a producer, there is no way that I can have these Black artists on the same bill as my white artists and make a lot of money. So, there was a lack of willingness to break those understood cultural habits of segregation. It’s a matter of who has access and who doesn’t have access.

The banjo was an African-derived instrument popularized by Black musicians in the 18th and 19th centuries that fell out of favor for the guitar after white musicians began using it in minstrel shows as a prop. Today, it’s closely associated with bluegrass and Americana. In recent years, musicians like Giddens, a banjoist and singer, have sought to reclaim and revive the banjo’s place in Black music. Talk about this history.

Dr. Jacqueline Cogdell DjeDje , emerita professor of ethnomusicology at UCLA, wrote a [1978] dissertation on the one-string banjo, tracing it back to its African origins and brought out West African fiddle music. Most people are not aware of the origin. People assume that the fiddle or the banjo were Spanish in origin and came through the Celtic journey or the Spanish journey.

In certain rural areas in the Carolinas, and certainly down South, the instrument never went away. In the Gullah Sea Islands, for the Geechee people all of those traditions continued to stay alive. It’s just that where it was popular, it lost the attention of the majority of people. In the mainstream music culture, you’re right: Nobody’s playing the banjo; nobody’s playing the fiddle in Black spaces.

What Rhiannon does and other people do, particularly during this awareness of Black Lives Matter and of uplifting Black culture in all ways, shapes, and forms, is use the moment to explore our traditional heritages.

In many ways, this is what Beyonce’s doing not only through her new releases but also “Renaissance” or “Lemonade.” She’s paying homage to Black culture and saying, “Hey, folks, don’t forget about this. And also, don’t pin me down. I can do a number of things because this was all part of the rich tradition and heritage that I’m indigenous to.”

Because of her popularity, and the success she’s already having on the country charts, could Beyoncé change the music like Ray Charles did in the early 1960s by inspiring other musicians and introducing it to a new, more diverse fan base?

Absolutely. If there is one person who has the power to do it, I think it’s Beyoncé. I’m a huge Beyoncé fan, so you have to forgive my bias here, but I don’t think there’s anybody else in the industry right now who has the leverage, who has the reach and the influence, to create a moment where these conversations are being had.

And not only as an artist, but as a businesswoman and as a major influencer, she’s doing just that. I actually think that’s the goal. I think it’s about the conversation. What she’s trying to do is not only create effective art, but to leverage it to be a conversation-starter so that we can heal our nation.

She’s from Houston. She’s a Texan. She understands country, both the music and the culture, both the attractive and non-attractive aspects of it. She also understands the influence that it has on people’s lives and she’s going right after that, trying to get us in conversation rather than hiding in the camps we’re more comfortable in.

The conversation is that country is not all white. There is a legacy; there is a history of non-white people who have been major influencers, major contributors, and people who should be recognized as such.

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - FEBRUARY 16: Cade Haskins #2 and Romeo Myrthil #20 of the Dartmouth Big Green, who are working to unionize their team, pose for a photograph after their game against Columbia Lions in their NCAA men's basketball game on February 16, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Adam Gray/Getty Images)

March Madness is in full swing as Men's and Women's college basketball teams across the country compete for the NCAA championship. However, the Dartmouth Men's Basketball team made headlines just before the tournament for its successful unionization vote.

Today, we break down why the Dartmouth men are pushing to unionize and what a college athletics union could mean for the future of college sports.

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Sep 30, 2023; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke Blue Devils head coach Mike Elko smiles just before

Where Does Texas A&M Aggies Coach Mike Elko Stand in 2024 SEC Football Rankings?

We're smack dab in the middle of the college football offseason when pretty much everything takes a back seat to college basketball and March Madness.

Author: Timm Hamm

In this story:

We're smack dab in the middle of the college football offseason when pretty much everything takes a back seat to college basketball and March Madness. Before we start seeing rankings of college football offseasons and spring football position group battles, it's time to rank the SEC head coaches.

It's a different college football game than we saw just five seasons ago, and the coaches who can adapt are the ones who will be most successful. Example? Alabama's Nick Saban cited the "changing landscape of the game" as one of his reasons for retiring.

Sep 30, 2023; Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke Blue Devils head coach Mike Elko smiles just before

Jaylynn Nash-USA TODAY Sports

On3 issued its ranking of the 16 SEC head coaches including new members, Texas and Oklahoma, as well as new coaches for the Aggies, Alabama Crimson Tide and Mississippi State Bulldogs. And it believes Texas A&M 's Mike Elko is right in the middle of the pack at No. 9.

"Elko is 16-9 in two seasons as Duke’s head coach, leading the Blue Devils to one of their best seasons in school history in 2022," On3 wrote. "He got the T exas A&M job because of his coaching (and player development) acumen, plus a personality that should play well with the Aggies’ fickle booster base.

"If Elko can win in Durham, he could do big things in College Station considering Texas A&M’s resources and recruiting footprint. He hired a strong staff (especially OC Collin Klein) and quickly plugged holes on the Aggies’ roster with a number of notable transfer portal additions. The sample is small, but Elko has also shown to be a very good game-day coach. It won’t be any surprise if he rises up these rankings in the years to come."

No. 1 on the list is Georgia's Kirby Smart, while LSU's Brian Kelly, Alabama's Kalen DeBoer, Texas' Steve Sarkisian and Ole Miss' Lane Kiffin round out the top five, respectively.

The bottom five consist of No. 16, Mississippi State's Jeff Lebby, Vanderbilt's Clark Lea, Arkansas' Sam Pittman, Florida's Billy Napier and South Carolina's Shane Beamer.

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How to Write a Great College Essay About Music (with examples)

Key Takeaway

Why you should (and shouldn’t) write your Common App essay about music

The Best Ways to Approach Your College Essay about Music

Writing about music as an academic interest

Writing poignantly about a deeply meaningful extracurricular

Approaches to Avoid

An inauthentic tale of triumph

A song that changed your life

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How to Write a College Essay about Music

1. Choose a Specific Topic

2. Show, Don't Tell

3. Use Descriptive Language

4. Incorporate Personal Anecdotes

5. Edit and Revise

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