CPA Instrumental Music:
Students majoring in band and orchestra receive an intense leveled program including small and large ensembles, solo playing, and participation in music festivals and concert performances
What are we looking for:
We are first and foremost evaluating your potential and passion for your instrument, your musicality, and your willingness to work hard to move to the next level
The audition assessment is based on the student's technical ability to interpret tempo, style, dynamics, phrasing, tonal quality, and accuracy of intonation
What to bring/how to prepare:
For their audition, all students must:
Bring an instrument to audition with (except percussion, but bring your own stick bag)
Students should begin practicing the audition music well in advance of the audition date
Practice with intent on playing correct notes, articulations/bowings, and dynamics
Practice sight-reading music (playing through music you have not seen before)
Ask your teacher at least 1 month before your audition for help learning the audition music
The Audition
Find your instrument below to download and prepare the audition music.
Sight-reading excerpt will be provided on site.
WINDS (download audition music)
Total Audition Time: Approximately 10 - 15 minutes
Students should be prepared to play the required audition music for their particular instrument
Students will warm up separately on their instrument before taking the audition
Students will sight-read a provided musical excerpt
It is the student’s responsibility to be prompt for their audition time slot and bring their audition music
PERCUSSION (download audition music)
Total Audition Time: Approximately 10 - 15 minutes
Students should be prepared to play the required audition music for snare and bells
Students must audition on both snare drum and bells/mallets
Percussion instruments will be provided, but students must have their own sticks and mallets
Students will sight-read a provided musical excerpt
It is the student’s responsibility to be prompt for their audition time slot and bring their audition music
STRINGS (download audition music)
Total Audition Time: Approximately 10 - 15 minutes
Students should be prepared to play the required audition music for their particular instrument
Students will warm up separately on their instrument before taking the audition
Someone will be available to assist with tuning (if necessary)
Students will sight-read a provided musical excerpt
It is the student’s responsibility to be prompt for their audition time slot and bring their audition music
Tips for a successful audition:
Practice! Truly prepare and be familiar with the audition music
Arrive promptly with all required materials
Present yourself well – dress neatly, speak confidently, and be clear
Be prepared to talk about yourself – your musical background, and your goals for the future
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