Can I still audition to add the music or music education major as an incoming student?
Yes! We accept post-admission (digital) auditions from incoming students until August 1. After this deadline, current students should prepare a live audition for early December (fall term), which will be held on Jury Exam Days.
How to submit a post-admission audition:
- Submit the audition requirements outlined here; provide unlisted YouTube video links or shared video files in a Google Drive folder to the music office via email at music@case.edu.
- Complete the Incoming/Current Student Audition Form; this form will replace the standard arts supplement questionnaire so please make sure to describe your musical background, academic interests, professional goals, etc. What college resources and opportunities are most important to you?
When will I declare my major in music or music education?
With CWRU admission and a successful audition, students can combine degrees in two academic disciplines or complete a secondary major in music. First-year students declare their music major during orientation week by completing a major declaration form approved by the academic representative for their program of study. This is an important step because music majors start taking core classes in their first semester.
Where can I go online to find Department of Music resources for current students?
There are many resources to help you successfully transition to CWRU, find your way around, get involved, explore opportunities, and address personal questions or concerns in our Student Resources for current undergraduate and graduate students.
Whom should I contact if I have academic advising questions over the summer?
New students will receive frequent emails from the Department of Music during the summer. For questions, visit the Contact Us page and find the academic representative for your program of study. New student orientation will take place during Discover Week where key members of the music faculty and staff will present helpful information.
Will I take music classes during my first semester?
Yes. Music majors should plan to take their required music theory (MUTH) class, applied music lessons and Recital Class (MUAP 121), and a primary ensemble (MUEN) during their first semester. Other music courses could include eurhythmics (MUDE), music education skills (MUED 200), optional ensembles (MUEN) or secondary lessons (MUAP 131).
How many credit units can I take in my first semester?
Undergraduate students can take a maximum of 19 credit units in their first semester.
How and when do music majors receive their studio assignment in applied music lessons?
Undergraduate music majors will receive notification of their studio placement from Jennifer Wright in the music office to enroll in the required primary applied music lessons and Recital Class1 sometime in August (before orientation). Students interested in secondary lessons (MUAP 131) should complete the Secondary Lessons: Policies and Pre-Registration Form to begin the registration process.
Graduate students in music must receive a lesson assignment from their faculty advisor and meet with Jennifer Wright during orientation to enroll. Students interested in secondary lessons (MUAP 531) must consult their advisors and complete the Secondary Lessons: Policies and Pre-Registration Form to begin the registration process.
Students should make every effort to schedule their weekly lesson time and register in SIS before each new term.
What are the solo performance requirements for music majors?
Music majors are required to participate in Recital Class1 each semester and perform once each academic year. The department does not require full-length solo recitals, but students are welcome to do so with the approval of their applied instructor or as part of their Capstone project. Other competitions and recitals include the Concerto Competition and Ronis Recital Prize.
1Recital Class: This is a required component of primary lessons for undergraduate music majors. The class meets weekly on Wednesday at 3:20 PM -4:10 PM in Harkness Chapel. Hybrid course delivery (in-person and asynchronous instruction). Students will perform once during the academic year and serve as stage managers the week following their performance.
What are jury examinations?
A jury exam is required of all students enrolled in primary applied music lessons. The exam is to take place during Ready Days each term. Each music major is required to perform jury exams specific to their degree program. Learn more about specific jury exam requirements in the undergraduate handbook.