Audition Information

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Auditions for students wishing to major or minor in music are held each spring in February prior to the entering fall semester. Interested students should complete the online music major application to schedule an audition. In addition to the provided audition dates, individual auditions can be arranged through the appropriate studio teacher or major ensemble director. Music Theory Placement Tests are given on each audition date to assess prior knowledge of music theory. Students may re-audition and/or retake the placement test as desired up through the last audition date. The last date to be considered for Fall 2025 music grants and scholarships is Saturday, February 22, 2025. Students may audition through April 25, 2025 for "Admission-Only" to major or minor in music.

Ensemble placement auditions (for bands, choirs, and orchestra) are held separately in both the fall and spring semesters. The following information only applies to students auditioning for acceptance into the music major or minor degree program.

We would love to see you in-person for your audition! A visit to WKU allows you to meet the faculty, tour our facilities and campus, and get a true feelfor becoming a Hilltopper. However, if you are unable to attend a live audition, please contact Dr. Zachary Lopes, Auditions Coordinator, at zachary.lopes@wku.edu to coordinate a different audition modality (e.g. pre-recorded audition and/or live virtual audition).

 

 

Audition Guidelines

Specific guidelines are listed by performance area. In addition to the prepared material each student is required to sight read a selection. For additional advice on audition selections go to the Music Faculty roster to find the appropriate studio teacher or ensemble director for your area then click that teacher's link for a short bio and contact information. Click here for Faculty Roster.

Wind Instruments: (1) Major Scales (up to 4 flats and 4 sharps) (2) Suitable solo or etude(s) to demonstrate musical and technical ability

Percussion: A solo or etude on each of the following instruments: (1) Snare drum (2) Timpani (3) Melodic instruments (mallets) (4) Accessories (tambourine, cymbals, etc.)

Keyboard: (1) Two contrasting pieces from the standard repertoire by memory (2) Scales and arpeggios in any major or minor key

Bowed Strings: (1) Basic major scales and arpeggios (2)Two contrasting pieces (one slow for tone, vibrato and bow control, one fast for facility and technique)

Voice: The audition will consist of the following: (1) two songs (from memory, one in a foreign language) (2) various vocal exercises to demonstrate range, dexterity and voice quality (3) pitch retention and sight-reading.  An accompanist will be provided for live vocal auditions. Please email Dr. Paul Hondorp if you plan to bring your own accompanist.  Our program is grounded in the classical music tradition.  If you would like repertoire suggestions, please click here for guidance.

Guitar/bass/plucked string instrument (specific to the Commercial Music Minor): First position open chords (major, minor, dominant), First position one octave major scale in key appropriate to instrument (C for guitar). Basic knowledge of music notation as it pertains to the specific instrument, including clef recognition and locating middle C on the staff. Questions regarding Guitar/bass/plucked string instrument auditions can be directed to John.Martin@wku.edu. 

Voice (specific to the Commercial Music Minor): Prepare two vocal selections (1) The National Anthem, (2) a song of your choice in any CCM style - rock, folk, bluegrass, blues, etc. Both selections must be performed from memory. Songs may be performed a cappella, with a prerecorded accompaniment track, or accompanying yourself on a secondary instrument such as piano or guitar. A Bluetooth speaker will be provided for vocalists choosing to use prerecorded tracks. The audition will conclude with a brief pitch matching exercise and basic sight reading assessment. Questions concerning the Commercial Music Minor auditions can be directed to Liza.Kelly@wku.edu. 

Drum Set (specific to the Commercial Music Minor): at least two varying styles/grooves (ie: rock, funk, shuffle, swing, Latin) including fills and solos, as well as varying tempos. Fundamental snare drum rudiments (ie: paradiddles, open rolls, flams). Questions regarding drum set auditions can be directed to Scott.Harris@wku.edu. 

 

General Information

Scholarships and Grants-in-Aid are offered to music majors and minors based on their performance ability/potential, the needs of the department's various ensembles, and the students' willingness to serve as members of those ensembles. Students receiving a music scholarship or grant are expected to participate in ensembles and activities above and beyond the minimum requirements for their degree program while maintaining both musical and academic progress toward graduation. Student musicians must apply and audition to be considered for an award. The last date to be considered for Fall 2025 music grants and scholarships is Saturday, February 22, 2025.

 

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