1) My auditions were super formal, so the best person I was able to get to talk to was a student at Boston Conservatory(boco), Patrick. I first asked him if they had any philosophy courses at boco, and he said that students were able to take philosophy courses at Emerson, but they weren't part of boco curriculum. I then asked him what kinds of things they learn about ethics or aesthetics of music, he said that in his lessons, topics such as responsibilities of performers do come up, but graduate students and conducting majors get more in depth. I then asked what kinds of things do you research while preparing a composition, he likes to have a general knowledge of the composer, their life, and their intentions of the piece. He thought it was lame when people play things and could not even speak a minute about the composition. He said that in boco juries (playing tests similar to finals), they are asked to speak at least 3 minutes about their selections, and reasonably, it should be more. I then asked him my EQ, and he said without a doubt learning about the life/intentions of a composer is the most vital thing involved in preparing for a performance.
2) Visiting these schools was very motivational, I have never felt closer to my goal of being a professional musician (even though I obviously have a long way to go). Its tough to gain much from auditions themselves because the judges don't give feedback, but I feel like I gained confidence and also momentum to keep working hard. Both of these will enable me to better in the auditions I have left. Overall, the whole experience of preparing for and going to these auditions has probably changed my attitude a lot. I've never worked harder for something in my life, and i'm sure the long term effects will be apparent once I am done. These will definitely be beneficial, and will continue to help me my whole life.
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