Q: Piano would help my kid apply for ivy colleges ?

I think it all depends.  Considering so many kids take piano classes and many got top level certificate.  The standard of talented is very high for top universities. Some students played goto national and internation contest and some played in Carnegie Hall.  Unless your kid is extremely good, I won't think piano will help much. Having said that, playing piano definitely has a good impact on kids - focuing, both hands balancing which is also good for the brain, helping building a good character while enjoying the music ...