If you’ve ever performed in a play or musical, then you’re probably familiar with sweating through an audition. Even if you’re not, pursuing a degree in dance or music will probably require you to endure at least one. However, auditions for college admission may be a bit different from singing a cappella in front of the high school choir director — this is serious business! (Not to imply that high school isn’t...) You can expect more competitiveness, more seriousness, and an expectation that you possess a certain degree of talent — no wannabes here!

Are you ready? Well, warm up your pipes or tune your strings! Whatever your specialty, here are some practical tips for nailing a stellar performance and knocking the admission committee off their feet.

Vocal auditions

Prepare at least two pieces in contrasting styles, including one in a foreign language, if possible
Opt for operatic, show music, or art song selections
Memorize each piece
Try to bring a familiar accompanist to the audition, if permitted

Instrumental auditions

Prepare to play scales and arpeggios, at least one etude or technical study, and a solo work
Instrumental pieces don’t need to be memorized but you may have to sight-read

General advice

When you’re performing sight-read music, take time to look over the piece and make sure you understand the key and time signatures before proceeding...

Author: Amy Ambler

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