Professional Documents for Muicians
Cover Letters: Do they really matter?
 Opportunity to show your personality within the constraints of a formal application.
 Start with the job posting—find the requirements and make a list, then respond to it IN
ORDER!
 Explain why you are an excellent fit for the position based on your qualifications.
Resume vs. CV: Identity Crisis!
Resume
Curriculum Vitae
Most important/relevant highlights
One page in length
Limited range of dates (most recent)
Comprehensive list of jobs/activities
Multiple pages
Longer date range (not complete, based on
significance)
Applications: No two jobs are created equal!
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Finding the jobs: College of Music Society, Chronicle of Higher Ed, Musical Chairs, society
websites, and most importantly… YOUR NETWORK!
Know the school/employer: Do your research before you spend time applying
For grad school applications: Make a check-list of all required components, plan ahead, and
always KNOW YOUR DEADLINES!
References: Who do I ask?! How do I ask? WHY?!
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Pick a broad range—how do they know you and how can they sell your talents? (academic,
performance, personal, etc.)
Always ask early (give several weeks before the due date); NEVER ask after you have already
submitted.
Provide information about the job as well as your qualifications for it so they can best represent
you!
Always Remember the 4 Cs:
Compliance - Provide all of the documentation, details, references, etc. that are required
for each application (Details Count!)
Currency - Always start with the most current events, then decide what past events are
important enough for inclusion. Not everything lasts forever!
Customization - No two job postings will ever be the same, and neither should your
resumes/CVs/cover letters! Tailor your documents to the job.
Consistency - Formatting is, in most cases, a matter of opinion. Whatever you choose to
do, do it consistently throughout the entire document.
Warren D. Allen Music Library 2014
Created by: Patrick Fulton & Sara Nodine