An Insider’s Guide to Being a TRYPO Parent

It’s been a busy year of learning about the programs TRYPO offers, the culture of the organization, and the MANY details of keeping multiple ensembles running successfully. I can’t say that I’ve improved my personal music skills (maybe someday I’ll get around to taking violin lessons!), but I am now quite familiar with the behind-the-scenes programs and communication tools TRYPO uses to help parents and students. Here are some of my top “insider” tips for being a TRYPO parent! 

• Start thinking early about the next season/moving up to a new ensemble. 

• • TRYPO’s audition applications generally go live in March (or earlier), and spots are booked on a first-come, first-served basis. If your child is very busy with extracurriculars (and whose isn’t?!), you’ll want to apply early so you can have your choice of audition date/time. And since many private teachers like to start working with students on audition music several months before the audition, you can find the next season’s audition music posted on the TRYPO website in January. 

• TRYPO’s scholarship application is easy and discreet, take advantage of it if needed. 

• • TRYPO is committed to including all students in their programs, regardless of financial barriers. Part of TRYPO’s mission is to have diverse ensembles where students can improve their skills together, especially if a student might not have that opportunity anywhere else. The scholarship application is just a quick form asking a few questions about your situation to best meet your needs. TRYPO can reduce your tuition fees and schedule a payment plan that works for you.  

• Make sure you’re getting all the emails. 

• • Throughout the year, and especially near concerts/trips/auditions, there is often a wealth of information in TRYPO’s Weekly Notes and Concert Memo emails. They’re a great reference for call times, schedule changes, and links to the forms you’ll need. Because TRYPO sends these mass emails on a regular basis, many email programs send our emails to spam or “promotions”. If you haven’t seen a TRYPO email for a week or more, check your spam folder or reach out to make sure your email address is correct on file.  

• Trips and/or volunteering are so worth it. 

• • I’ve heard time and again from current parents and students about the personal impact of ensemble trips. They provide students with both fun bonding experiences and the valuable opportunity to create music in new environments. If you’re able to volunteer to chaperone a trip, take advantage of that opportunity to build relationships with other parents and your child’s musical friends. You’ll be sure to hear some great music along the way! 

Having only been with TRYPO for this last season, I know there are many current and former TRYPO parents with a lot more experience out there! Do you have a tip or word of advice I didn’t cover? Send us an email at staff@trypo.org or leave a comment, we would love to hear from you! 

Written by Shana Slaybaugh