FAQs
Who/What is MAR?
The Music Admissions Roundtable, or MAR, is a consortium of music schools and summer music programs from the United States and Canada. The group was founded in 2011 by a group of admission professionals from a range of music schools who wanted to come together to share ideas and information for the betterment of the profession. The MAR started in 2011, scheduling roundtable discussions around music college fairs and then evolved to hosting several-day conferences in Denver, Chicago, Interlochen, College Park, and Aspen. The challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic inspired the MAR to move outside of our activities with colleagues to take on an important public leadership role in creating virtual performing arts college fairs that serve the students with whom we work.
Why virtual college fairs?
As admission representatives from across the country, we understand the value provided to students and families when they are able to meet with people who represent the schools they are interested in. They can learn firsthand about institutions and their programs, as well as auditions and admission processes. Normally college fairs and campus visits are a great opportunity for students to find schools that could be the right fit for them. With COVID-19 making these fairs and visits difficult (or even impossible), the MAR has created the virtual fairs to provide a way for prospective students to learn about their higher education options.
Who can attend?
Anyone is welcome. These fairs will be most useful to students who are searching for undergraduate or graduate programs. We typically see the most benefits to students and families who are in their sophomore through senior year in high school, and for those in their junior or senior year of undergraduate studies who are looking for graduate school options.
Is there a cost to attend the fair?
No, the fair is free to attend for students. We simply want to provide a way for prospective students to connect with institutions during this unique time. You will not need to register in advance to attend the fair or the panel discussions, but you should be prepared to fill out a short registration form to access each school’s Zoom “booth.”
Do I have to visit each school?
While you do not have to visit each school on the list of participating schools, we recommend visiting as many as you are able during the fair. Create a list of your “can’t miss” schools, as well as some that you may have heard of and want to know more about, and even some that are unknown to you. One of the benefits of a college fair is being able to learn about a lot of different options in a limited time, with little commitment (you don’t have to plan travel — or even leave your house — to learn about what opportunities await you after you graduate). One of those schools you weren’t aware of before may become your new dream school!
Can I attend multiple fairs?
Of course! Unless otherwise noted, every school will be present at each fair. If you didn’t make it through your list of schools, feel free to join us at another fair.
When is the fair?
Sunday, September 18, 2022: 4-6 PM ET College Fair
Tuesday, October 18, 2022: 7-9 PM ET College Fair
Who do I contact if a Zoom link isn’t working?
Contact the individual school if you are having issues connecting during a fair. Each school’s Zoom link is specific to their office of admission.