Auditions + program requirements

violinist performing

听Contact the College of Music

Auditions, portfolios and/or interviews are required for all College of Music degree programs. In-person听and remote options are available听although we suggest attending an in-person day if possible. Carefully review the requirements and deadlines for your area of study below.听

Note: If you鈥檙e already a 91福利社 student and wish听to audition for one of our ensembles, visit our听ensembles听page.

Audition days

Auditions and interviews for the fall semester occur鈥痮ver three live audition weekends in January-February. You will be asked for your audition date preference within the College of Music application for our planning purposes; you will select your audition time in December-January.鈥疉udition days are a full-day experience with orientation activities including tours, faculty meet-and-greets and more!

Live audition dates

  • Jan. 17, 2026:
  • Jan. 24, 2026:
  • Feb. 7, 2026:

Musical theatre auditions are a two-day process. Voice and monologue auditions are on听Friday afternoon and dance auditions are on Saturday morning.听The musical theatre virtual auditions take place on Friday only, with optional activities on Saturday morning:

  • Jan. 16 + 17, 2026:
  • Jan. 23 + 24, 2026:
  • Feb. 6听+ 7,听2026:

Need a place to stay in 91福利社? We鈥檙e pleased to partner with the Hiltons of 91福利社 to provide room, dining and parking discounts at three hotels conveniently located near campus. Learn more听about our hotel partners and rates. Please contact the hotels directly to verify that rates are current and rooms are available.听

If you can鈥檛 travel to 91福利社, a remote audition process is available. All applicants wishing to audition remotely must submit a recorded audition AND register for a virtual interview with faculty. Virtual interview slots will be available on all three of the college-wide audition days (above). The virtual interview is a chance for you to meet faculty in your instrument area and discuss your goals.听

  • Deadlines听for fall admission
    • Pre-screening recordings (voice and musical theatre) must be submitted by Dec. 1.
    • Portfolios (composition, music production听and songwriting) must be submitted by听Dec.1.
    • All other recorded auditions must be submitted by Feb.鈥1, but preferably prior to your virtual interview date.
  • We accept the following (please do not send DVDs or CDs):
    • Recorded auditions must be videos. We do not accept audio-only auditions.
    • Accepted file formats:听.avi, .flv, .m1v, .m2v, .m4v, .mkv, .mpeg, .mpg, .mp4, .webm, .wmv
    • Links: You may upload links to听YouTube videos听under 鈥淯pload Recordings鈥擴pload Link.鈥 Please听only听upload links to YouTube,听not听to SoundCloud, Google Drive听or Vimeo.
  • Upload听your recordings via your 91福利社 Application听.
    • After submitting the Common Application or Transfer Application,听you will receive an email from Undergraduate Admissions with your login information.
    • Log in and view your听Application Status page. From this portal, you may upload recordings听via the music application tab. If you鈥檙e having trouble with this process, please reach out to Undergraduate Admissions.
    • Make sure to check your study area requirements below for specific guidance about recording length, cuts, and file labeling. These preferences may vary by studio.

Audition requirements

Undergraduate brass + percussion

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Audition material is flexible and鈥攚hile there is no required repertory list鈥攃andidates should choose works that demonstrate their very best in both technical and lyrical playing.

  • Scale:听C chromatic scale (two octaves)
  • Solo:听Two contrasting solos or movements from major solo literature (i.e. Haydn, Hummel, Arutunian, Hindemith, Kennan, Stevens, Enesco, etc.)
  • Etudes:听One to two听etudes from Charlier, Arban, Bousquet, Brandt, Goldman, Bitsch, etc.
  • Excerpts:听Three to four听standard orchestral excerpts
  • It is strongly discouraged that candidates perform any region/all-state etudes.

If you have any questions about repertoire, please contact Ryan Gardner.

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:听听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Trumpet studio听听听听听

Brass + percussion听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听.

Audition requirements

Trombone

  1. Major sacles in 2 octaves
  2. Two contrasting etudes to be selected from Bordogni, Blazhevich, Fink, Kopprasch, etc. One etude should demonstrate technical ability and the other should demonstrate lyrical and expressive qualities. A technical and lyrical standard orchestral excerpt may be substituted for required etudes. Applicants who are interested in the Jazz Emphasis should submit a jazz etude or improvisation.
  3. Solo or single movement of student鈥檚 choice, to be selected from:
    叠补谤补迟鈥Andante et Allegro
    叠濒补锄丑别惫颈肠丑鈥Concert Piece No. 5
    骋谤辞苍诲补丑濒鈥Concerto (mvt. 1)
    骋耻颈濒尘补苍迟鈥Morceau Symphonique
    The above list demonstrates the performance level expected for undergraduate study; other works of similar difficulty may be substituted. Applicants are encouraged to include works by under-represented, diverse composers as appropriate.

Bass trombone

  1. Major scales in 2 octaves
  2. Two contrasting etudes to be selected from Bordogni, Blazhevich, Fink, Kopprasch, etc. One etude should demonstrate technical ability听and the other should demonstrate lyrical and expressive qualities. A technical and lyrical standard orchestral excerpt may be substituted for required etudes. Applicants who are interested in the Jazz Emphasis should submit a jazz etude or improvisation.
  3. Solo or single movement of student鈥檚 choice, to be selected from:
    骋补濒濒颈补谤诲鈥Six Sonatas (contrasting movements from one sonata)
    闯补肠辞产鈥Cameos (selected movements)
    尝别产别诲别惫鈥Concerto in One Movement
    惭补谤肠别濒濒辞鈥Sonatas (contrasting movements from one sonata)
    惭肠颁补谤迟测鈥Sonata
    The above list demonstrates the performance level expected for undergraduate study; other works of similar difficulty may be substituted. Applicants are encouraged to include works by under-represented, diverse composers.

Piano accompaniment is optional.

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:听听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Trombone studio听听听听听

Brass + percussion听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听.

Audition requirements

Where possible, you are encouraged to include works by historically underrepresented composers in your audition repertoire. Find compendiums and resources from the听,听听and 91福利社鈥檚 very own听American Music Research Center.

  1. 惭辞锄补谤迟鈥concerto of choice (K. 412, K. 417, K. 447 or K.495), mvmt. 1 exposition
  2. Contrasting solo work of choice
  3. Orchestral excerpts (please choose three excerpts from the list below. Excerpts may be downloaded from听):
    • 叠别别迟丑辞惫别苍鈥Symphony No. 3, Mvmt. 3 Trio, Hn. 2
    • 叠别别迟丑辞惫别苍鈥Symphony No. 7, Mvmt. 1
    • 叠谤补丑尘蝉鈥Symphony No. 3, Mvmt. 3 Hn. 1
    • 惭耻蝉蝉辞谤驳蝉办测/搁补惫别濒鈥Pictures at an Exhibition, Promenade, Hn. 1
    • 笔谤颈肠别鈥Symphony No. 1, Mvmt. 3 (Juba Dance) Hn. 1
    • 搁补惫别濒鈥Pavane for a Dead Princess, Hn. 1
    • 厂丑辞蝉迟补办辞惫颈肠丑鈥Symphony 5, Mvmt. 1 Hn. 1
    • R. Strauss鈥Don Juan, Hn. 1
    • 罢肠丑补颈办辞惫蝉办测鈥Symphony No. 4, Mvmt. 1 Hn. 1 and 2
    • 奥颈濒濒颈补尘蝉鈥Star Wars Suite: 2. 听Princess Leia鈥檚 Theme

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

If you choose to submit a recorded audition, please complete the requirements for the live audition above. Each component of the recording should be unedited, but the final recording may be a compilation of your best version of each requirement.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:听听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Horn studio听听听听听

Brass + percussion听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听.

Audition requirements

  1. Solo work (accompaniment optional)
  • Two contrasting solos or etudes, or one piece with contrasting sections. One piece should demonstrate technical ability and the other should highlight lyrical and expressive qualities. Solos should be performed with piano accompaniment if possible (An accompanist can be provided with adequate notice for live auditions by contacting Professor Dunn).
  • This repertoire may be selected from the following list (but is not limited to):
    • Tuba
      • Arnold, Malcolm 鈥Fantasy, Op. 102听听听听听听听听听听听听 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听
      • Hartley, Walter S.鈥Suite for Unaccompanied Tuba
      • Bach, J.S., arr. Wm. Bell鈥Air and Bouree听听听听听听听听听听听听听听 听听听听听听 听听
      • Hindemith, Paul鈥Sonata for Bass Tuba
      • Barat, J. Edouard, arr. Glen Smith鈥Introduction +听Dance 听听
      • Lebedev, Alexi; arr. Allen Ostrander鈥Concerto in One Movement
      • Broughton, Bruce鈥Sonata (Concerto)听听听听听听听听听听听听听 听听听听听听听听听听听
      • Marcello, Benedetto; trans. Little/Nelson鈥Sonata No. I in F
      • Capuzzi, Antonio; trans. Catelinet鈥Andante and Rondo
      • Marcello, Benedetto; trans. Little/Nelson鈥Sonata No. V in C
      • Gregson, Edward鈥Concerto, mvt. 1听听听听 听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听
      • Nelhybel, Vaclav鈥Suite for Tuba and Piano
      • Haddad, Don鈥Suite for Tuba 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听
      • Vaughan Williams, Ralph鈥Concerto for Tuba
    • Euphonium
      • Barat, Ed.鈥Andante and Allegro 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听听
      • Guillmant, A.鈥Morceau Symphonique
      • Capuzzi, A.鈥Andante and Rondo 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听
      • Marcello, B.鈥Sonata in F Major
      • Curnow, J.鈥Rhapsody for Euphonium 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听
      • Mozart, W.鈥Bassoon Concerto
  1. Etude
  • An etude of your choice that demonstrates tone, musicianship听and technique. The etude may be selected from the following list (but is not limited to):
    • Tuba
      • 鈥Blazhevich听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听
      • Kopprasch听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听
      • Bordogni/Rochut听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听
      • Shoemaker听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听
      • Fink听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听
      • Tyrell听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听
      • Gregoriev听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听
      • Euphonium
      • Bordogni/Rochut听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听听
      • Slama
      • Kopprasch 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听 听
      • Voxman

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:听听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Tuba + euphonium studio听听听听听

Brass + percussion听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Undergraduate
Required

  • Snare drum
    • Concert style solo or etude (Cirone, Peters, Delecluse, etc.)
    • Rudimental/traditional style solo or etude, (Wilcoxon, Pratt, Tompkins, etc.)
  • Keyboard Percussion
    • Four-mallet solo (Bach, Guitar or Piano Transcription, Abe, Tanaka, Burrit, Stout, etc.)
    • Two-mallet solo (Bach, Violin or Flute Transcription, Ragtime, Contemporary Solo, etc.)
  • Timpani
    • Solo or etude (Goodman, Friese, Hochrainer, Knauer, etc.)
    • Tuning
  • In addition to the following requirements we may also you to demonstrate Major Scales on Keyboards and Flams, Paradiddles, and 9-Stroke Rolls on Snare Drum. 听听听听听听听听听

Optional
In addition to the above you are welcome to present music on any other percussion instrument that represents your skill and musicianship. Any and all examples of other instruments/musical disciplines will be taken into consideration. Videos of performances (including multiple percussion solos, chamber music, playing in bands, etc.) will also be considered. This portion is entirely optional and can only add to your overall application without detracting in any way. Examples may include:

  • Drum Set - play multiple styles and grooves, a transcription, improvisation, and/or play along with a recording - see听CU Jazz ensemble audition requirements for suggestions
  • World Percussion - play multiple styles and grooves, a transcription, improvisation, and/or play along with a recording
  • Jazz Vibes
  • Multiple Percussion solo

Any questions regarding your audition material or the audition process should be sent to:听Michael.tetreault@colorado.edu and听Carl.Dixon@colorado.edu.

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:听听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Percussion studio听听听听听

Brass + percussion听

Undergraduate composition

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

For information on applying for College of Music ensembles, visit our鈥ensembles page.听

Audition requirements

For prospective composition majors, the audition process has three parts:听
听
Composition portfolio review (required): You must submit three or more original works and recordings. Scores and additional documentation such as code, video, etc. encouraged when applicable. Recordings can be live/edited or MIDI realizations. Your portfolio of works must be submitted online via your . Materials should be received by Dec. 1. (We will only accept materials submitted between Dec. 1-Feb. 1 based on space available.) Please also submit a personal statement detailing your goals and aspirations for your time at 91福利社 and why you are interested in joining our community. Your statement should provide a snapshot of your creative life and identity鈥搘e want to get to know you.
听
We are seeking students who are enthusiastic learners, who crave a community of collaborators and who want to push themselves to new artistic places.
听
Performance audition (optional for BM Composition applicants): Though not required of the BM Composition degree, applicants have the opportunity to audition on an orchestral instrument, piano, voice or classical guitar. For those applying to the BM Composition degree, applicants can pursue a 鈥渘on-performance鈥 track in the degree which will not require an instrumental or vocal audition. You will be able to indicate this in your music application and the music audition requirement will be waived internally. If applying to the BA degree, you must pass an audition at the BA level or higher on an orchestral instrument, piano, voice or classical guitar. Auditions on synthesizer are not accepted. For specific repertoire recommendations, please review the audition requirements for your instrument.听
听
Live composition interview (required): Composition interviews can be either in person or conducted virtually via Zoom. You will be able to sign up via your 91福利社 as early as December. Note that all composition applicants who pass pre-screening must complete an interview鈥攊ncluding applicants who submitted a recorded instrumental or vocal audition.听Interviews will be no more than 15 minutes in length and will be conducted by our composition faculty. You will be asked about your interests in pursuing a composition degree, how you got involved in composing, profound experiences related to music and artists of any and all genres and disciplines who have been impactful to you. We will use this interview time to get to know who you are as an artist and as a person.
听
More about the program: We support creatives of all sound mediums who would benefit from working in a supportive, collaborative environment with mentors across numerous disciplines and aesthetics. We seek artists who are looking to develop their craft and expand their knowledge and experiences in sound, regardless of whether they have a formal education in music. This includes composers and creators of concert music, film and video game music, electronic music听and installation work. For a better idea of whether our degrees will support your goals, please consult the degree sheet for BM in Composition or BA in Music for a detailed overview of the curriculum.
听

Undergraduate jazz studies

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

In-person live: Prepare at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles and recommended songs listed below.

  • 12-bar blues: Play the melody and then improvise over the form over a jazz blues of your choice such as: Blues for Alice, Au Privave, Blues Walk, Now鈥檚 The Time
  • Medium up-tempo swing: Play the melody and then improvise over the form of a jazz 鈥渟tandard鈥 tune of your choice such as: Green Dolphin Street, All the Things You Are, Have You Met Miss Jones?, Lady Bird, Autumn Leaves, My Romance, Stella by Starlight, Days of Wine and Roses
  • Bebop: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a bop tune such as Donna Lee, Confirmation, Ornithology, Oleo
  • Latin/Bossa: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: Black Orpheus, Blue Bossa, Girl From Impanema, Triste, Wave
  • Ballad: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: In a Sentimental Mood, Body and Soul, What鈥檚 New?, My One and Only Love, Misty, My Foolish Heart
  • Jazz waltz: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: Someday My Prince Will Come, Up Jumped Spring, All Blues, Bluesette

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

The recording should include at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles listed below. You can submit more than 3 if you like. You may submit separate recordings or a single continuous recording.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Note: For accompaniment on your recorded audition, students can record with a live band or use play-along tracks such as iReal Pro, Aebersold recordings听or 鈥淟earn Jazz Standards鈥 on YouTube.鈥

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts: 听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Jazz saxophone studio听

Thompson Jazz Studies Program听听 听听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Prepare at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles and recommended songs listed below.

  • 12-bar blues: Play the melody and then improvise over the form over a jazz blues of your choice such as: Blues for Alice, Au Privave, Blues Walk, Now鈥檚 The Time
  • Medium up-tempo swing: Play the melody and then improvise over the form of a jazz 鈥渟tandard鈥 tune of your choice such as: Green Dolphin Street, All the Things You Are, Have You Met Miss Jones?, Lady Bird, Autumn Leaves, My Romance, Stella by Starlight, Days of Wine and Roses
  • Bebop: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a bop tune such as Donna Lee, Confirmation, Ornithology, Oleo
  • Latin/Bossa: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: Black Orpheus, Blue Bossa, Girl From Impanema, Triste, Wave
  • Ballad: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: In a Sentimental Mood, Body and Soul, What鈥檚 New?, My One and Only Love, Misty, My Foolish Heart
  • Jazz waltz: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: Someday My Prince Will Come, Up Jumped Spring, All Blues, Bluesette

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

The recording should include at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles listed below. You can submit more than 3 if you like. You may submit separate recordings or a single continuous recording.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts: 听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Jazz trumpet studio听

Thompson Jazz Studies Program听听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Prepare at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles and recommended songs listed below.

  • 12-bar blues: Play the melody and then improvise over the form over a jazz blues of your choice such as: Blues for Alice, Au Privave, Blues Walk, Now鈥檚 The Time
  • Medium up-tempo swing: Play the melody and then improvise over the form of a jazz 鈥渟tandard鈥 tune of your choice such as: Green Dolphin Street, All the Things You Are, Have You Met Miss Jones?, Lady Bird, Autumn Leaves, My Romance, Stella by Starlight, Days of Wine and Roses
  • Bebop: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a bop tune such as Donna Lee, Confirmation, Ornithology, Oleo
  • Latin/Bossa: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: Black Orpheus, Blue Bossa, Girl From Impanema, Triste, Wave
  • Ballad: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: In a Sentimental Mood, Body and Soul, What鈥檚 New?, My One and Only Love, Misty, My Foolish Heart
  • Jazz waltz: Play the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: Someday My Prince Will Come, Up Jumped Spring, All Blues, Bluesette

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

The recording should include at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles listed below. You can submit more than 3 if you like. You may submit separate recordings or a single continuous recording.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Note: For accompaniment on your recorded audition, students can record with a live band or use play-along tracks such as iReal Pro, Aebersold recordings听or 鈥淟earn Jazz Standards鈥 on YouTube.鈥

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts: 听听听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Jazz trombone studio听听

Thompson Jazz Studies Program听听 听 听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Prepare at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles and recommended songs listed below.

  • 12-Bar Blues:听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate comping (i.e., chords) over a jazz blues of your choice such as: Blues for Alice, Au Privave, Blues Walk, Now鈥檚 The Time
  • Medium Up-Tempo Swing:听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate comping听over a jazz tunes of your choice such as: Green Dolphin Street, All the Things You Are, Have You Met Miss Jones?, Lady Bird, Autumn Leaves, My Romance, Stella by Starlight, Days of Wine and Roses
  • Bebop:听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate comping听on a bop tune such as Donna Lee, Confirmation, Ornithology, Oleo
  • Latin/Bossa:听Play the chords to a Latin tune (or chord melody arrangement) of your choice such as: Black Orpheus, Blue Bossa, Girl From Impanema, Triste, Wave
  • Ballad:听Play a ballad of your choice in chord melody style, such as: In a Sentimental Mood, Body and Soul, What鈥檚 New?, My One and Only Love, Misty, My Foolish Heart
  • Jazz Waltz:听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate comping听on a jazz waltz such as: Someday My Prince Will Come, Up Jumped Spring, All Blues, Bluesette

In addition to the jazz requirements listed above, jazz piano applicants must also play one鈥痗lassical excerpt (three minutes in length)鈥.听

The鈥痗lassical piece can be of a style period of your choice (Baroque, Classical or Romantic鈥痜or example).鈥疉dditionally, please provide a list of any鈥痮ther classical repertoire you have studied or performed.听

Some suggestions for appropriate audition repertoire include:听

  • J.S. 叠补肠丑鈥Invention in A minor, No. 13
  • F. Kuhlau鈥ㄢSonatina in C Major, Op. 55, No. 1
  • F. Mendelssohn鈥ㄌ鈥淰enetian Gondolier,鈥 Op. 19, No. 6
  • F. Chopin鈥ㄢPrelude in E minor, Op. 28, No. 4
  • D. Kabalevsky鈥Sonatina Op. 13, No. 1

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

The recording should include at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles listed below. You can submit more than 3 if you like. You may submit separate recordings or a single continuous recording.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Note: For accompaniment on your recorded audition, students can record with a live band or use play-along tracks such as iReal Pro, Aebersold recordings听or 鈥淟earn Jazz Standards鈥 on YouTube.鈥

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts: 听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Jazz piano studio听听 听听

Thompson Jazz Studies Program听听 听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

In-person live: Students will be asked to play music meeting the repertoire听requirements listed below.听

  • 12-bar blues:听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate comping (i.e., chords) over a jazz blues of your choice such as: Blues for Alice, Au Privave, Blues Walk, Now鈥檚 The Time
  • Medium up-tempo swing:听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate comping听over a jazz tunes of your choice such as: Green Dolphin Street, All the Things You Are, Have You Met Miss Jones?, Lady Bird, Autumn Leaves, My Romance, Stella by Starlight, Days of Wine and Roses
  • Bebop:听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate comping听on a bop tune such as Donna Lee, Confirmation, Ornithology, Oleo
  • Latin/Bossa:听Play the chords to a Latin tune (or chord melody arrangement) of your choice such as: Black Orpheus, Blue Bossa, Girl From Impanema, Triste, Wave
  • Ballad:听Play a ballad of your choice in chord melody style, such as: In a Sentimental Mood, Body and Soul, What鈥檚 New?, My One and Only Love, Misty, My Foolish Heart
  • Jazz waltz:听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate comping听on a jazz waltz such as: Someday My Prince Will Come, Up Jumped Spring, All Blues, Bluesette

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

The recording should include at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles listed below. You can submit more than 3 if you like. You may submit separate recordings or a single continuous recording.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Note: For accompaniment on your recorded audition, students can record with a live band or use play-along tracks such as iReal Pro, Aebersold recordings听or 鈥淟earn Jazz Standards鈥 on YouTube.鈥

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts: 听听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Jazz guitar studio听听 听 听

Thompson Jazz Studies Program听听 听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

In-person live: Prepare at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles and recommended songs listed below.听

  • 12-bar blues:听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate walking a bass line over a jazz blues of your choice such as: Blues for Alice, Au Privave, Blues Walk, Now鈥檚 The Time
  • Medium up-tempo swing:听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate walking a bass line over a jazz tunes of your choice such as: Green Dolphin Street, All the Things You Are, Have You Met Miss Jones?, Lady Bird, Autumn Leaves, My Romance, Stella by Starlight, Days of Wine and Roses
  • Bebop:听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate听walking a bass line听on a bop tune such as Donna Lee, Confirmation, Ornithology, Oleo
  • Latin/Bossa:听听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate听walking a bass line on a tune such as: Black Orpheus, Blue Bossa, Girl From Impanema, Triste, Wave
  • Ballad:听听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate听walking a bass line on a tune such as: In a Sentimental Mood, Body and Soul, What鈥檚 New?, My One and Only Love, Misty, My Foolish Heart
  • Jazz waltz:听听Play the melody,听improvise over the form,听and demonstrate听walking a bass line听on a jazz waltz such as: Someday My Prince Will Come, Up Jumped Spring, All Blues, Bluesette.

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

The recording should include at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles listed below. You can submit more than 3 if you like. You may submit separate recordings or a single continuous recording.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Note: For accompaniment on your recorded audition, students can record with a live band or use play-along tracks such as iReal Pro, Aebersold recordings听or 鈥淟earn Jazz Standards鈥 on YouTube.鈥

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Jazz bass studio听听 听听

Thompson Jazz Studies Program听听 听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

In-person live: Students will be asked to play music meeting the rep. requirements listed below.

  • Med. swing: metronome marking (mm)=140
  • Bright/fast swing: mm=240+
  • Samba, Bossa, or salsa groove:听mm=your choice
  • Jazz waltz:听mm=130
  • 12/8 Afro Cuban groove:听mm=120
  • Funk or hip hop groove:听mm = your choice
  • 鈥淪traight No Chaser鈥澨(blues by Thelonious Monk):听mm=140
    • For this selection, you鈥檒l play the melody 2x; play two 12-bar chorus of time; play two 12-bar choruses of a solo; and finish with one chorus of the melody again for a total of seven continuous 12-bar choruses. When playing the melody, you鈥檒l play the rhythm of the melody along with outlining the melodic shape on the drums as best you can.听(Low notes on lower sounding drums, high听notes on higher sounding drums and cymbals.)

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

If you choose to submit a recorded audition,听then record an example of all the grooves/styles listed above.听You may submit separate recordings or a single continuous recording.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Note: For accompaniment on your recorded audition, students can record with a live band or use play-along tracks such as iReal Pro, Aebersold recordings听or 鈥淟earn Jazz Standards鈥 on YouTube.鈥

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Jazz drum听studio听听

Thompson Jazz Studies Program听听 听听 听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Pre-screening:听Please note: NO pre-screening is required for jazz voice. (A pre-screening IS required for opera or musical theatre.)

Audition Requirements:听Prepare at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles and recommended songs listed below. Lyrics/ words optional. You are welcome to write your own lyrics if you wish to use songs that don鈥檛 have lyrics. Improvise in a jazz/scat singing style that demonstrates your knowledge of the form and harmony of the song.

  • 12-bar blues: Sing the melody and then improvise over the form over a jazz blues of your choice such as: Blues for Alice, Au Privave, Blues Walk, Now鈥檚 The Time.
  • Medium up-tempo swing: Sing the melody and then improvise over the form of a jazz 鈥渟tandard鈥 tune of your choice such as: Green Dolphin Street, All the Things You Are, Have You Met Miss Jones?, Lady Bird, Autumn Leaves, My Romance, Stella by Starlight, Days of Wine and Roses
  • Bebop: Sing the melody and improvise over the form on a bop tune such as Donna Lee, Confirmation, Ornithology, Oleo
  • Latin/Bossa:听Play the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: Black Orpheus, Blue Bossa, Girl From Impanema, Triste, Wave
  • Ballad: Sing the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: In a Sentimental Mood, Body and Soul, What鈥檚 New?, My One and Only Love, Misty, My Foolish Heart
  • Jazz waltz: Sing the melody and improvise over the form on a tune such as: Someday My Prince Will Come, Up Jumped Spring, All Blues, Bluesette

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

The recording should include at least 3 selections of your choice from the styles listed below. You can submit more than 3 if you like. You may submit separate recordings or a single continuous recording.

Note: For accompaniment on your recording, students can record with a live band or use play-along tracks such as iReal Pro, Aebersold recordings or 鈥淟earn Jazz Standards鈥 on YouTube.鈥

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:听听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

For questions please contact John Gunther,听John.gunther@colorado.edu

Degree sheets

Vocal jazz studio听

Thompson Jazz Studies Program听听

Undergraduate music education

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

For prospective music education majors, the audition and interview process has several parts:

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.听
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Audition

You must pass an audition with a classical instrument or voice. (Those wishing to declare the BME Jazz emphasis must also audition on a classical instrument and will add the jazz concentration once enrolled.) For specific repertoire recommendations, please听review the section听for your instrument requirements. Note that some instruments require pre-screening to be submitted by Dec. 1.听

More information about in-person and remote audition options can be found .

Pre-interview form

The purpose of this interview is to further acquaint students with the music education program, and to provide the music education faculty with additional information about applicants. This information is used, in conjunction with academic criteria and audition results, to determine admissions to the program. The interview is designed for faculty to learn more about your prior teaching/leadership experiences and career goals. Once you have applied to the College of Music, you鈥檒l be given access to sign up for an interview and audition via your application portal. You should also submit the Pre-interview form on your application portal. We e ask that all BME applicants complete this short form that helps us gather some information to learn more about you. Please complete that form prior to your scheduled interview.听

Interview

Interviews may be completed in-person or virtually. We do strongly recommend you complete your BME interview on the day of your audition. Interviews will be no more than 15 minutes and will be conducted by our music education faculty.

For further information about the music education program, contact department chair Leila Heil.

Degree sheets

Music education听

Undergraduate music production

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

about听applying for our ensembles.

Application requirements听

An instrumental/vocal audition is not required for the Bachelor of Arts听music production emphasis degree. However, a portfolio and interview are required. Your portfolio must be submitted by Dec. 1 and should contain the following materials:听听

  1. A personal statement (150-200 words) describing your goals and reasons for pursuing studies in music production.听
  2. Two recordings that you have created (16/44.1 resolution WAV).鈥疐or each recording, describe the equipment used, your recording and production process(es) and any specific limitations that you encountered and how you overcame them.听
  3. Listening exercise: Listen to Leningrad's "Dikhiy muzhchina" from their 1999 recording "Mat bez elektrichestva". Review this chart showing the relative size and location of each element in the mix.鈥疷sing that as an example, listen to Fourplay鈥檚 鈥淏ali Run鈥 from their self-titled 1991 album and create a chart showing the relative size and location of elements in that mix.鈥疭ave your chart as a pdf and submit it with your other materials.听
  4. Optional: Feel free to upload additional projects, recordings听or tracks you鈥檙e proud of. We want to get to know you!听

Portfolio materials should be uploaded to the My Portfolio听section on your . We strongly encourage you to submit these materials on or before Dec. 1 for the best chance of consideration. Portfolios received after Dec. 1 will be considered on a space-available basis.听

Interview process听

Applicants who pass the portfolio review will be notified in mid-December and will be invited to register for an interview with our Music Production faculty. Interviews will be available on all three of the College of Music audition days (dates listed above). In-person and virtual options will be available. The interview is an opportunity to meet faculty, discuss your goals听and learn more about the program.听

Degree sheets

Music technology听

Undergraduate musicology

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Application requirements

For prospective majors in musicology (including Western music history and world music), the audition process has several parts:

  1. You must submit a short research paper (7-12 pages double-spaced) no later than Feb. 1 via your applicant portal. This paper will be evaluated for clarity, accuracy听and critical acuity. It need not be on music but should rather represent your best work in any field and show your ability to research a topic and evaluate information critically.
  2. You must submit a short music essay responding to one of the following prompts:听听
    1. Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.听
    2. 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听
  3. You must pass an audition on an orchestral or band instrument; classical guitar; piano or harpsichord; voice; or jazz styles at the appropriate level.鈥疶he audition will be evaluated jointly by a minimum of two musicologists and two applied faculty in relevant performance area or areas.听

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Degree sheets

Musicology听听 听

Undergraduate piano + harpsichord

Undergraduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Applicants should be prepared to play 15 minutes of music consisting of three or more contrasting pieces. Applicants are strongly encouraged to include repertoire by composers from historically underrepresented groups (including women), and to demonstrate their personal strengths and interests in their repertoire choices.

  • Students applying for a BM degree (other than composition):
    • A work by J.S. Bach, at the level of a suite or prelude and fugue
    • A sonata-allegro form movement from a Classical period sonata
    • One or two pieces of your choice
    • At least two works must be memorized
    • The audition committee is looking for well-prepared, technically sound, confident, musical听and stylistically appropriate performances
  • Students applying for a BM-Composition, BME or BA degree:
    • Three works, two of which must be classical genre representing two different periods (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Contemporary).
    • The third work is free choice, including: an original composition, an improvisation, a work in a non-classical genre, or another classical work.
    • At least one of the classical works must be performed from memory.

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

Please upload separate, unedited videos for each work. Please label each video clearly with the work title. 听More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found听.

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Piano performance听听听听听

Roser Piano and Keyboard Program听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Applicants for a BM in harpsichord performance should be prepared to play 15 minutes of music consisting of three or more contrasting pieces. Memorization is not required. One of the selections should be a work by J.S. Bach, at the level of a suite or prelude and fugue. The audition committee is looking for well-prepared, technically sound, confident, musical听and stylistically appropriate performances. Students can submit either one unedited file or multiple files (unedited within each file).

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Harpsichord studio听听听听听

Roser Piano and Keyboard Program听

Undergraduate songwriting

Undergraduate application instruction

Portfolio

Applicants must submit a portfolio that includes:

  1. A video demonstration of two original songs.
  2. A written analysis of two songs (see the list below).
  3. A written personal statement.

Original Songs

  • Submit videos of your two strongest original songs. Any commercial genre is acceptable.
  • Songs (both music and lyrics) should be written by the applicant. Co-written pieces are not appropriate for this submission.
  • Applicants should preferably perform the songs they wrote themselves but may ask other performers to accompany them. In this case, please credit all performers in the video.
  • Due to the nature of the songwriting degree, songs submitted for review must contain both music and lyrics written by the applicant (no co-writes). Please upload the lyrics in a separate PDF or Word document under 鈥淢y Portfolio.鈥

Written Analysis

For the written analysis describe, in your own words, any two of the following songs. You should discuss the form, lyrics, instrumentation, and general musical elements (chords, melody, style, etc) of each of the two songs you choose.

  • 鈥淣orwegian Wood鈥 by the Beatles
  • 鈥16 Carriages鈥 by Beyonc茅
  • 鈥淚 Ain鈥檛 Goin鈥 Out Like That鈥 by Cypress Hill
  • 鈥淲recking Ball鈥 by Miley Cyrus
  • 鈥淎lways On My Mind鈥 by Willie Nelson

Personal Statement

Write a personal statement (150-250 words) describing your goals and reasons for pursuing studies in songwriting at 91福利社. This should be uploaded to fulfill the 鈥淢usic Essay鈥 requirement on your checklist. Please address the following questions in your statement:

  • What are your short and long-term career goals?
  • What or who are your musical influences?
  • What instrument(s) do you play?
  • What strengths do you think you will bring to the Songwriting program?

Interview

Applicants who pass the portfolio review stage will be invited back to an interview with faculty. Interviews will be scheduled on the College of Music audition days (see dates above). In-person and remote options will be available. Interviews are your chance to meet faculty and ask questions. You may be asked to perform and discuss your songs during the interview.

Undergraduate strings

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Three contrasting works (or movements from works) demonstrating different music styles. Works by female composers and BIPOC composers are strongly encouraged.

For example:

  • One movement from a violin concerto
  • One movement from a solo violin work
  • One work (or movement) from a piece of your choosing

Repertoire may be chosen from any era and may include works such as:

  • Concerto: One movement of a concerto from the standard repertoire, such as Barber, Beethoven, Brahms, Dvorak, Elgar, Haydn, Higdon, Korngold, Lalo, Mozart, Price, Prokofiev, Saint-Sa毛ns, Schumann, Shostakovich, Sibelius, Tchaikovsky or Wieniawski.
  • Solo work: One movement from: the Bach Sonatas and Partitas, Ysaye Sonatas, Hindemith or Porkofiev Solo Sonatas, or Etudes/Caprices by Dont, Rode, Fiorillo, Paganini, Wieniawski or Vieuxtemps.
  • Free Choice work: Standard encore type work by composers like Sarasate, Wieniawski, Kreisler, Heifetz, Kroll, Achron, Paganini, Brahms or Beethoven, and/or contemporary works such as Schnittke Fuga, Tower Platinum Spirals,听 Auerbach Preludes, P盲rt Fratres.听

The above works are only examples, if you have repertoire not on the list it is entirely acceptable, please contact us with any questions about specific repertoire choices.

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

If you choose to audition remotely, you should include the repertoire listed and each work should be recorded in one continuous, unedited clip. You may use any equipment at your disposal, including smartphones, but please make every attempt to submit the highest quality video possible. The camera should be positioned so that both hands and full range of bowing can be visible.听

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.听
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?鈥澨

Degree sheets

Violin studio听听听听听

Strings听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Please prepare the repertoire listed below for viola auditions. Including works by female composers and BIPOC composers is encouraged.听

  • One movement from a viola concerto
  • One movement from a Bach Solo Suite
  • One work or movement from a piece of your choosing

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

If you choose to submit a recorded audition, you should include the repertoire listed above. You may submit multiple clips, but they should be unedited. You may use any equipment at your disposal, including smartphones, but please make every attempt to submit the highest quality video possible. The camera should be positioned so that both hands and full range of bowing can be visible.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:听听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.听
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?鈥澨

Degree sheets

Viola studio听听听听听

Strings听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Three contrasting works (or movements from works) demonstrating different music styles. Works by female composers and BIPOC composers are strongly encouraged.

  • One movement from a cello concerto
  • One movement from a solo cello work
  • One work (or movement) from a piece of your choosing

Repertoire may be chosen from any era and may include works such as:

  • Concerto: One movement of a concerto from the cello repertoire, such as Barber, Bloch, Boccherini, Dvorak, Elgar, Haydn, Herbert, Lalo, Mumford, Prokofiev, Saint-Sa毛ns, Schumann, Shostakovich听or Tchaikovsky.
  • Solo cello:听One movement from the Bach Suites for Solo Cello, Dutilleux Trois Strophes, Lutoslawski Sacher Variation, Cassad贸 Suite, Golijov Omaramor, Leon Four Pieces, Ligeti Sonata, Mayuzumi Bunraku, Piatti Caprices, Perkinson Lamentations Black/Folk Song Suite (1973), Popper Etudes, Schuller Fantasy, Shaw In manus tuas听or Sheng Seven Tunes Heard in China
  • Free choice piece:听Bloch Nigun, Cassad贸 Requiebros, Cassad贸 Danse du Diable Vert, Chopin Polonaise Brilliante, Chopin/Popper Nocturne No. 2 in E flat major, Op. 9, No. 2, Coleridge-Taylor Variations, Faur茅 Apr猫s un R锚ve, Faure Papillons, Grant Still Summerland, Mendelssohn Songs Without Words, Popper Spinning Song or Elfentanz, Paganini Moses Variations, Schumann Adagio and Allegro Op. 70, Simon Lickety Split, Tchaikovsky Pezzo Capriccioso, Wallen Dervish听or Yun Espace I (1992)

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

If you choose to submit a recorded audition, you should include the repertoire listed above. You may use any equipment at your disposal, including smartphones, but please make every attempt to submit the highest quality video possible. The camera should be positioned so that both hands and full range of bowing can be visible.听

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.听
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?鈥澨

Degree sheets

Cello studio听听听听听

Strings听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Three contrasting works (or movements from works) demonstrating different music styles. Works by female composers and BIPOC composers are strongly encouraged.

  • One movement from a sonata or concerto
  • One movement from a solo double bass work
  • An orchestral excerpt

Repertoire may be chosen from any era and may include works such as:

  • Sonata or Concerto: One movement of a sonata (Marcello, Schubert, Sperger, Vivaldi, etc.) or concerto (Bottesini, Capuzzi, Dittersdorf, Dragonetti, Koussevitsky, etc.) from the double repertoire.
  • Solo Double Bass听 One movement from a Bach Cello Suite, Dragonetti Waltz, David Ellis Sonata, Xavier Foley solo bass piece (Cranberry Lake), Miloslav Gajdos solo works听or other work.
  • Orchestral Excerpt:听 Beethoven Symphony 5 or 9, Brahms Symphony 1 or 2, Florence Price Symphony No.1, Wagner Mesitersinger听or other work.

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.听
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?鈥澨

Degree sheets

Double bass studio听听听听听

Strings听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

The audition consists of classical music played on a classical guitar (nylon strings, fingerstyle, no pick).听

  • Repertoire:听You should be able to play at least three pieces from the standard classical repertoire. Repertoire for the audition must include three pieces from different historical periods. One of the pieces will be a study by Sor, Carcassi, Aguado or Giuliani; the other two will be your own choice (selections could include a prelude by Manuel Ponce, a short dance by Francisco T谩rrega, a dance or prelude by J.S. Bach, etc).

You are encouraged, but not required, to present works by composers of varying backgrounds and stories. You may perform from music or from memory.

The above requirements also apply if you are applying to transfer from another institution at junior or senior level

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

While a single, continuous take is preferred, separate, unedited recordings will also be accepted. Only video recordings will be accepted. Please announce your name and repertoire selections at the beginning of the recording.听

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.听
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?鈥澨

Degree sheets

Ritter Family Classical Guitar Program听听听听听

Strings听

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Audition requirements

Please prepare the following repertoire for harp auditions:

  • Two contrasting pieces
  • One orchestral excerpt

Applicants may choose to audition in-person or remotely. To audition remotely, applicants must complete both听of听the following:

  1. Submit a recording
  2. Register for a Zoom interview with faculty.

If you choose to submit a recorded audition, then you may submit either one unedited file or multiple files (unedited within each file).听

More information about the audition process and recording specifications can be found .

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.听
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?鈥澨

Degree sheets

Harp studio听听听听听

Strings听

Undergraduate voice + opera + musical theatre

Undergraduate application instructions听

Graduate application instructions听

Information about the Vocal Coaching Artist Diploma can be found on听the鈥collaborative piano audition鈥痯age.听

Pre-screening

All undergraduate voice applicants (excluding jazz voice) are required to submit a pre-screening video. This necessary step helps us organize many applications while ensuring respect for your time and resources.听

  • Pre-screenings should be submitted by Dec. 1 (Fall applicants) or Oct. 1 (Spring applicants). Pre-screenings submitted after these deadlines will only be reviewed if space remains.
  • Pre-screening repertoire requirements are the same as those listed below under 鈥楢udition Requirements.鈥櫶
  • Please prepare your video as well as you can. High quality videos without reverb are preferred.鈥
  • Once all pre-screening videos have been reviewed, you will be notified and further instructions will be sent if you are invited to audition.听

Live audition

Live auditions (for those who pass the pre-screening) take place on three audition Saturdays in January-February here in 91福利社. If you cannot attend a live in-person audition, we can consider your pre-screening recording in conjunction with a Zoom interview with the faculty.

More information about the audition process and audition days can be found .

Audition requirements (first year)

Please prepare two contrasting selections that best display your vocal talent.听

  • One of the selections must be from the classical repertoire, which can include a folk song or a spiritual; the other can be either a second classical song, a musical theater number, or a jazz standard with fully-realized piano accompaniment (no lead sheets or chord symbols).鈥
  • If you have a background in a language other than English, you are welcome to offer a selection in that language.听
  • All selections must be performed from memory.鈥
  • For pre-screening videos and recorded auditions full body must be shown. You may be disqualified if your video submission is too close-up for us to evaluate whether your selections are memorized.听
  • Sight-singing and pitch-matching may be tested at the live audition.听
  • A pianist will be provided for all in-person auditions. Please use a pianist or a backing track for recorded auditions.鈥

Please note that the voice area centers its vocal training around the classical and musical theater singing styles. We are not, at the moment, able to offer training in commercial music or contemporary pop singing. However, vocal jazz is offered through the Thompson Jazz Studies Program. Information on how to apply to that program is available here.听

Audition requirements (transfer students)

You should prepare a brief program of 3-4 songs; the majority of these should be from the classical repertoire. Please also submit a copy of your repertoire list.听

Essay prompt听听

A short music essay is required with your application. Upload the essay on your status page. Please choose one of the following prompts:听听

  • Tell us why you would like to be a music major, describe your most powerful musical experience鈥痑nd list your future goals as a musician. Comment on your musical background and share anything else you would like us to know.听
  • 鈥淢usic lets you rediscover your humanity, and your connection to humanity.鈥 -Hans Zimmer. In what ways do you believe music can or should connect people across difference?听

Degree sheets

Voice + opera + musical theatre听