As you prepare your Music Arts Supplement, here are some important things to keep in mind:
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Audition Requirements: Audition videos must include the required elements for your primary instrument or voice. Submissions for secondary instruments, original compositions, or traditional repertoire on non-Western instruments are optional but cannot substitute for the required audition elements.
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Submission Essentials: All submissions must include a completed questionnaire or statement of purpose, along with video recordings where the applicant is both visible and audible. Audio-only submissions are not accepted.
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Repertoire Selection: Choose the repertoire that is ideal for you. Read the audition requirements carefully and consult your current teacher to make thoughtful choices.
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Mastery of Pieces: Ensure you have mastered your chosen pieces. We are primarily interested in assessing your technical skills and gaining insight into your ideas of musical expression.
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Accompaniment:
- Instrumentalists may perform with or without accompaniment.
- Vocalists must sing from memory and may use live or recorded accompaniment, demonstrating appropriate vocal technique (body alignment, timbre, range, diction, and musicality).
- Pianists must perform from memory on a keyboard instrument in excellent condition.
- Popular Music applicants may accompany themselves on another instrument (e.g., guitar or keyboard), use recorded tracks, or play with other musicians (jazz/rock band).
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Recording Environment: Use a clean room with good acoustics, ample lighting, and a neutral background. Your personality should shine through both your performance and your presentation.
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Dress and Presentation: Dress sharp and present yourself confidently. Your appearance should reflect your commitment and professionalism.
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Video Recording Tips:
- A smartphone or home video camera can work well for the audition. Use a tripod to ensure the camera is steady.
- Ensure the camera angle clearly displays your technical abilities.
- Videos should not be overly produced or edited, and no digital enhancement of the performance is permitted.
- Microphones or amplification are optional for popular music.
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Live Performances: A live performance video can be submitted as long as there are no distracting background noises and the video focuses on the applicant. Ensemble performances are not acceptable.
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Video Duration: While we do not have specific time requirements, we encourage you to limit your uploads to no more than 20 minutes in total. Select performances that best showcase your abilities within that timeframe.
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Connect with Us: Once you've submitted your audition, reach out to let us know your goals, ask any specific questions about our program, schedule a visit, or request a trial lesson.