Audition Information

The CWU Department Music requires two different types of auditions, "Admission Auditions" and "Ensemble Auditions". As the name implies, Admission Auditions are required for acceptance into the Music Program and are required for all music majors, minors and students interested in private lessons. Ensemble Auditions are open to any student, music major or not, and are required for acceptance into the particular ensemble. Below you will find the necessary audition information dependant upon your own musical direction.

Audition for Admission
If you wish to be a music major, minor, or take private lessons in your performing area, you must first audition for acceptance into the Music program. Admission can be either for Performance or Non-Performance degrees (browse our admissions page for more on this topic). This audition is also used as a basis for awarding music scholarships.

Auditions at CWU are designed to enable the faculty to ascertain your potential for success as a music major in your intended degree area. Do not think of it as a concert performance, but instead as an opportunity to demonstrate your skill level and musicianship. Of course, you should show to your best advantage, so it is recommended that you prepare for your audition under the guidance of your current music teacher. Bear in mind that the standards for a Performance degree and an Education or Composition degree may be different. You'll find your audition requirements by visiting your particular performance areas audition page.

Admission/Scholarship auditions are normally held on campus in mid, January, and in Seattle in the Soundbridge rooms of Benaroya Hall near the end of January. Though you may submit a CD or DVD, we prefer live auditions. To register for an audition time other than the January dates, go to the online audition registration pdf form and complete it. At this point you should save a copy on your computer. (How to do this varies depending on your browser, but is usually done by clicking the save icon in Acrobat reader) At this point you should contact your particular performance area director to set up an audition time and determine if the director would like you to email your form, or bring a printed copy with you to your audition instead.

You are strongly urged to apply for admission to the University immediately. Only those students who have applied by February 1 will be considered for University-administered academic scholarships. Don't miss this application date!

Please be aware that the music major student population is currently at capacity and some studio areas have very few spaces for entering students in 2011. The earlier we know of your intention and talent, the more likely your acceptance.

Audition For Ensembles
Any student, music major or not, can participate in any music department ensemble. If you wish to perform in a music ensemble you must audition for that group. Ensemble auditions are separate from admission auditions and occur during the first part of each quarter.

CWU has numerous ensembles, both large and small, offering something for everyone. Generally, audition sign up sheets are posted on the directors door a couple of weeks prior to the scheduled audition times. For more information check out your particular performance areas audition page, the ensembles page, or our new audition locator page. If you still have question please feel free to contact the ensemble director directly.

*Last updated 2010-03-11