The Department of Music offers academic coursework to foster understanding and critical thinking about music's place in culture; diverse musical heritages; practical instruction to develop musical skills; and performance opportunities to enrich each student's career aspirations or avocational interests. The department also contributes to the development of future civic, religious, and academic leaders by promoting the value of life-long learning in the musical arts.
Application and Audition Information
Auditions are required for admission to any music major in the Department of Music. Music degrees and programs include Music Composition, Music Education, Music Performance, Music Therapy, and a Bachelor of Arts in Music. All persons applying for a music scholarship must also schedule an audition, whether planning a music or non-music major. To be considered for a scholarship, an audition must be given no later than March 1.How to Schedule an Audition
Incoming students who wish to schedule an audition should read the "Preparing for an Audition" and "Other Information" sections below before proceeding to the audition scheduling form in the quicklinks on the music department home page. The scheduling form provides details about scheduling an audition via e-mail. Audition application forms are also available in the Department of Music office. Call the office at 937-229-3936 (long distance, 1-800-UD-PRIDE) for more information. Audition applicants will receive confirmation of audition date, time and location by email before the audition.
Preparing for an Audition
Auditions take approximately fifteen minutes. Those auditioning should plan a warm-up prior to the scheduled audition. The audition will include a simple sight-singing and pitch-recognition test.
Vocalists
Prepare two contrasting selections which demonstrate your technique and expressive ability. One selection should be in English; one selection in a foreign language is encouraged. Both songs should be memorized and from the standard vocal repertoire. A selection from musical theatre may also be chosen.
Keyboardists
Prepare either two short contrasting pieces or one extended work demonstrating your skills. Memorization is highly encouraged but not required.
Instrumentalists
Prepare two contrasting works or one major work (such as a piece from the appropriate state solo and ensemble contest list). You may be asked to play major scales and sight-read. Memorization is not required.
If you require an accompanist (vocalists only), please send the part to us at least two weeks in advance. You will be assigned an accompanist and rehearsal time prior to the audition. If you are bringing an audio pre-taped accompaniment, please indicate that on the Audition Application Form in the appropriate space. Instrumentalists may provide their own accompanists (optional).
Other Information
All prospective music majors are required to take a Music Fundamentals Assessment Test on audition day.
Prospective music education students are also required to:
- Write an essay (approx. 100 – 150 words) on the topic of why they want to be a music educator. This essay needs to be returned to the Department of Music at least one week prior to the audition date. Students should email their essay to Dr. Linda Hartley, Coordinator of Music Education: Lhartley@udayton.edu
- Participate in a 15-minute interview during audition day. The interview will be with at least one music education professor and will cover topics such as previous teaching experience, performing experience, career goals, and expectations of an undergraduate music education degree program.
- Take a musical aptitude test during audition day. Since this is an aptitude test, and not an achievement test, students cannot prepare for the test. The test is meant to assess a student's musical potential.
