Classical
Undergraduate Auditions typically consist of scales and prepared selections, which should include one or more movements from the standard solo, sonata or concerto repertoire. Etudes may also be included. Sight-reading may be requested. Selections need not be memorized and piano accompaniment is not required. All students are asked to bring three copies of their music with them to the audition.
Snare Drum
- Solo (Comparable to Cirone Portraits in Rhythm, or Delecluse Douze Etudes)
- Rudiments
- Sight reading
Marimba (specific pieces mentioned are meant to guide towards difficulty expected, and should not be interpreted as a requirement)
Demonstrate 2 AND 4 mallet technique:
- 2 Mallet (Bach A minor Violin Concerto, Creston Concerto, Kreisler Tambourin Chinois, G.H. Green Rag, or comparable)
- 4 Mallet (Stout Two Mexican Dances, Abe Michi, Smadbeck Rhythm Song, Sammut Rotation IV, or comparable)
- Sight reading
Timpani
- 4 Drum Solo (Carter's 8 Pieces for 4 Timpani, a Firth etude, Beck Sonata for Timpani or comparable)
Jazz Drum Set
Students wishing to major in Jazz Studies or participate in jazz performing groups must complete BOTH a classical and a jazz audition. Please inform the Admissions Office if you plan to perform a separate jazz drum set audition.
The Jazz Drum Set audition requires demonstration of:
- Various styles (i.e. swing, Bebop, ballad, Latin, various even-eighth-note grooves)
- Tempos (i.e. medium tempo, ballad, uptempo)
- Sight reading of jazz arrangements
Please bring cymbals, sticks, and a hi-hat clutch to the audition. A drum set will be provided.