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Auditioning for the Band, Wind and Percussion Area
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For more information on auditions and to schedule an audition as wind or percussion performer, visit the Undergraduate Admissions Office Music Auditions and Awards page.
Audition Requirements
The following requirements are for wind and percussion students auditioning for admission to the department as a music major or music minor and for Talent and Participation Awards. They are not for Athletic Bands Participation Awards - visit the athletic bands webpages for more information on those awards.
The department of music does not provide a repertoire list for auditions so that students auditioning may consult with their teachers to select the best literature that represents their level of musical development. The auditioning panel is looking for current as well as potential ability to complete the preferred degree program. In order to properly assess this we look for pitch accuracy, correct and steady rhythm, physical coordination, musical expressiveness and disciplined work habits. Auditions are approximately 10 minutes long. Practice rooms will be available for warming up on the day of your audition. An accompanist is not required, but one can be provided if requested in advance.
Brass and Woodwind Students
Perform two contrasting movements (slow-fast) from a sonata or concerto demonstrating technique, tone and general musicianship. Students may elect to substitute contrasting solos or etudes instead of movements from a larger work. Students should also be prepared to perform all major scales with arpeggios and a two-octave chromatic scale.
Percussion
Applicants should be prepared to perform on snare drum (either rudimental and concert styles), mallet instruments (xylophone, marimba, or vibraphone) and timpani. Applicants should bring an original score and one copy of every piece or etude they will be performing, as well as all necessary sticks and mallets. Instruments will be provided (snare drum, marimba/xylophone/vibraphone and timpani).
Snare drum
- One solo or etude demonstrating musical and technical ability.
- The 26 basic rudiments and a concert-style buzz roll (pp-ff-pp)
- Sight-reading.
Mallets
- One solo or etude demonstrating musical and technical ability. This solo can be for two or four mallets.
- Major scales, two octaves with arpeggios.
- Sight-reading.
Timpani
- One solo or etude demonstrating musical and technical ability
- Tuning the timpani using a pitch pipe, tuning fork, or piano
- Sight-reading
