A music major entering into college is expected to have developed astute music skills, as well as tremendous musical knowledge. Such musical aptitude is most often developed from years of music instruction, lessons, and preparation. To assist all aspiring musicians in the pursuit of their musical dreams, this article outlines the musical expectations of your college audition.
The first music school audition expectation is a familiarity with Basic Musicianship. This means an entering music major should know the basics of musical notation such as note values and pitches, clefs, meters, dynamics, articulations and expression markings. They should also be experienced in musical reading, writing, scales (major and minor), basic chords (triads and sevenths), and chord progressions (I – IV – V – I, etc.). A music student not “fluent” in these fundamental symbols and concepts will be unable to learn the higher music theory concepts taught at the college music level.
Next is Basic Instrument Proficiency. College music students will be extensively tested on the one instrument which they have taken years learning and studying. Every semester each student will be graded according to a set standard for their instrument and poor performance can lead to having to retake levels and remain in college longer.
Another music school audition expectation is Solo and Ensemble Performance Experience. While not required of college music majors, experience in performance groups is highly encouraged and valued. An important part of every music major’s curriculum (with the possible exception of piano majors) is performing with small and large choirs, orchestras and bands. Students considering majoring in music should take the opportunity to perform in community and school choirs, orchestras and bands to gain this experience. Participation in solo recitals and competitions should be encouraged as this experience proves valuable for most college music school auditions.
The final music school audition expectation involves musical Practice and Study Skills. College music majors should expect a challenging educational time. The variety of music courses and experiences required will call for all of the skills they have learned both with their private teacher as well as in all their classes in school. Music majors must be able to write term papers, study for tests on musical history and theory concepts, as well as meet strict performance goals achieved from countless hours of practicing daily alone in a practice room. College music majors are required to be exceptional, self-directed students, and are typically high school high honors graduates.
For music instruction in your musical instrument of choice in classical, jazz, or popular music styles contact Kathryn Brickwell Music Instruction at https://www.music-instruction.com. The music teachers at Kathryn Brickwell Music Instruction have years of training, performing and teaching music, as well as experience in the preparation of music college hopefuls with their NYSSMA and College auditions. Good luck attaining your college degree (summa cum laude!) majoring in music.