Audition Requirements
General Admission Information
New students must meet the general requirements for admission to the University. Additionally, an audition is required in the applicants' major performance field to determine proficiency and placement in the appropriate applied level. It is preferred that auditions take place at the University. In this way, the student can get a first-hand impression of the campus and the activity in the busy School of Music. During your visit you will meet Professor Thomas, the conductors and, very likely, several of the students. In case of extreme distance or scheduling problems, a high quality cassette, CD or video tape may serve for provisional admittance. Auditions are judged by the appropriate applied faculty and are normally arranged through the individual studio professor. Auditions serve as criteria for admissions and scholarships and are held throughout the school year. Auditions are advisory in nature regarding performance level. Repertoire for the admission audition are generally selected from the traditional solo literature, etudes and, if possible, orchestral excerpts (where applicable). Please contact Professor Thomas for audition literature recommendations.
Audition Information
The audition format for the U of A Tuba/Euphonium Studio more closely resembles a lesson than a formal, juried audition. Auditions are held with the student and Professor Thomas in the Tuba/Euphonium Studio and last approximately sixty to ninety minutes. The audition begins with a discussion concerning the expectations and requirements of this studio and adequate time for questions to be fully discussed. Parents are invited and encouraged to attend the audition. A lesson will follow the discussion. The lesson aspect will give the student a chance to feel how their applied experience at UA will unfold and give the professor a chance to see how the student accepts and adapts to new information. Literature choice is open and should reflect the student's level of skill. Students should prepare literature with a variety of styles and techniques they find appealing and comfortable which represents their abilities.
The concept behind this type of audition is such that it is not dependant on what the student has accomplished prior to their matriculation to UA but, rather, to give the professor an idea of what the student is capable of accomplishing. Students in the UA Tuba/Euphonium Studio progress at a rapid rate. Not all students who attend UA Tuba/Euphonium Studio have had prior private instruction. However, all students who attended the UA Tuba/Euphonium Studio have been excited about music and their instrument, wish to be excellent performers regardless of their major, have a very strong desire to succeed, and have an excellent work ethic. To wit: we are looking for the right kind of student - bright, articulate, animated, engaging, talented, fun, and hard working - regardless of their previous experiences.
One of the best times to audition is during the Southwest Junior and Senior Honor Band Festival that occurs here on campus each spring. This honor band is comprised mainly of high school students from the western U.S. interested in attending the U of A. During this festival we hold many scholarship auditions. This festival generally occurs in early January. Click here for more information regarding the Southwest Junior and Senior Honor Band Festival.