U of Colorado College of Music Recommendation Form (Grad) 

Four reference letters are required. Detailed letters of reference that address specific accomplishments, 

strengths and weaknesses, work habits, etc., are much more helpful than brief, overly general letters. When 

soliciting these letters, applicants should choose four people who can address different aspects of their 

professional background. At least one of the letters should come from an academic faculty member (theory, musicology, etc.) who knows the student’s academic work directly and another who can speak to the 

applicant’s teaching ability. It is often helpful to provide your references with a copy of your resume, 

transcript(s), and other information that will assist them in addressing specific aspects of your preparation for 

graduate studies.