Graduate Auditions
Performance auditions
The audition candidate should prepare approximately 15 minutes of music for the audition.
Entire pieces are not required--individual movements or excerpts are acceptable. The
candidate should prepare a combination of materials that showcase their technical
and lyrical abilities. A live audition is recommended for entering graduate performance
students. It is not required for a Music Education graduate degree unless you would
like to take elective lessons. Admission via video recording is accepted via these
guidelines.
Students should be prepared to present:
- At least two compositions of contrasting styles which demonstrate technical and musical proficiency necessary for advanced study
- Standard orchestral excerpts for orchestral instruments
- Sight reading is required.
For more information, please see the Faculty by Area links to contact the studio in which you are interested.
Visit the piano audition repertoire page for specific examples.
Visit the cello audition repertoire page for specific examples.
Music Systems & Theory Placement
Applications must have an on-campus interview with the Coordinator of Music Systems & Theory, and must submit two undergraduate research papers between 15-30 pages in length that demonstrate their:
- Ability to think critically and originally
- Skills as a researcher
- Writing ability
For further information please contact Music Systems & Theory coordinator Dr. Brian Belet at brian.belet@sjsu.edu or (408) 924-4632.
