Performance

 

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC

 

The audition will consist of the performance of a prepared solo, evaluation of scales, and sight reading. Evaluation will also be based upon potential ability, performance ability, and knowledge of fundamentals. 

 

How to Prepare for the Audition

 

Choose one appropriate 3-5 minute prepared piece that best suits your level (this is your time to show off!). Percussionists should prepare a piece on their primary instrument (snare, timpani, or mallets).

Band students with jazz experience may prepare an additional piece. 

Practice and memorize the following scales in an appropriate range for your instrument:   

 

• Strings - C, G, D, A, F, Bb Major (be able to demonstrate more than one position)

• Winds and Percussion - C, G, D, A, F, Bb, Eb Major (do not transpose) and chromatic (full range of ability)

 

Students will be evaluated individually. Areas of assessment will include:

• Tone Quality

• Intonation

• Technique/Fundamentals

• Interpretation

• Ability to receive feedback/constructive criticism

 

 

VOCAL MUSIC

 

The audition will consist of the performance of a prepared solo, evaluation of tonal memory, and sight singing. Evaluation will also be based upon potential ability, performance ability, and knowledge of fundamentals. 

 

How to Prepare for the Audition

Choose one appropriate prepared piece, approximately 30 seconds to one minute in length that that best suits your voice (this is your time to show off!). 

Practice with an accompaniment CD (no regular commercial recordings) or a piano accompanist.

 

What to Bring to the Audition

• Two (2) copies of the prepared piece for panelists

• Accompaniment CD

 

Students will be evaluated individually. Areas of assessment will include:

• Tone Quality

• Rhythm

• Notes and Pitch

• Expression and Style

• Tonal Memory

• Singing the lowest of two pitches

• Sight Reading

• Ability to receive feedback/constructive criticism

 

 

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE AUDITION

 

Ten (10) minutes prior to the audition, you will enter an individual practice room provided for you to warm-up. In the audition, you will play or sing your prepared piece. You may be asked to sing or play only a portion of your selection.

 

Vocalists may be asked to sing in a different style or be asked to sing a familiar tune (i.e. “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” or “The Star-Spangled Banner”, etc.)

 

 

Click to view the Instrumental Audition Rubric

 

Click to view the Vocal Audition Rubric

 

 

Musicianship Assessment

 

This exam assesses the student’s prior knowledge of music theory so that they will be placed in the proper level of Musicianship. Elements included in this assessment are listed below.