Music Major/Minor Auditions

Students will be asked to perform 2-3 major scales (2 octaves preferred) and a chromatic scale (2 octaves minimum-3 if possible on your instrument). Students will also be asked to perform two contrasting etudes (one technical , one lyrical). For repertoire selection recommendations, feel free to contact the applied faculty member for your instrument.

Students wishing to be considered for Jaguar Marching Band as well as a music major/minor will have their JMB audition waived. 

Percussionists will need to prepare the following:

1. Demonstrate the following rudiments in a slow-fast-slow manner: paradiddle, alternating flams, flam taps, multiple bounce roll (piano - forte - piano)
2. A concert snare drum solo or etude (a solo/etude can be provided if requested). Please introduce yourself and the title of the solo/etude before your performance. The use of a practice pad in substitution of an instrument is acceptable.
3. Students will perform two majors scales of their choice (2 octaves preferred) and a chromatic scale (2 octaves minimum-3 if possible on your instrument).  
4. A Keyboard (2 mallet required) but A 4 mallet solo or etude is highly recommended for students seeking top scholarship consideration. 

After the auditionee has completed their audition, an interview will take place to conclude the audition process. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to email Dr. Brian Nozny at bnozny@southalabama.edu.

Applicants will also be asked to prepare two etudes consisting of contrasting material (one technical , one lyrical) from the serious keyboard literature. 

While specific technical studies are not required, the performer may wish to demonstrate proficiency in such areas as scales, arpeggios, or chord charts.  For questions about choice of audition material please contact, Dr. Robert Holm, Area Coordinator for Keyboard Studies.

An audition is required for admission to the program as a vocal major or minor. Prospective students will perform two songs, demonstrate range, pitch retention and sight-reading ability. Audition repertoire should be chosen that reflects ability and readiness for private vocal study. Consult the USA Vocal Area Coordinator, Dr. Thomas Rowell, if you have questions as to what would be suitable for an audition at USA.

Incoming freshmen or non-majors auditioning for vocal ensemble scholarship

Two art songs in contrasting styles should be prepared and presented from memory. Songs may be in English or in a foreign language, and should come from standard classical vocal repertoire. Repertoire that is appropriate for performance at solo/ensemble contest or at NATS auditions is considered acceptable audition repertoire. PLEASE NOTE: While sacred music such as legitimate art song settings of hymns are most welcome, hymns or gospel songs sung a cappella are not regarded as acceptable audition material in order to receive a scholarship or for entry into the music program.

Transferring majors/minors from other institutions

Two contrasting pieces from standard classical vocal repertoire will be presented, one of which may be an aria from opera or oratorio. One of the pieces must be performed in Italian, German or French. Audition repertoire should reflect the singer’s highest level of accomplishment in previous collegiate vocal study and demonstrate readiness to continue private study toward degree completion.

An accompanist is provided for each audition. No pre-recorded accompaniments or self-accompaniment will be accepted. Examples of vocal collections that contain appropriate audition repertoire are:

• 26 Italian Arias and Songs
• 24 Italian Arias and Songs
• The Young Singer Series
• Joan Frey Boytim Series such as The First Book of Soprano Solos
• English Reliquary of Song
• Pathways of Song
• 56 Songs You Like to Sing Arias for Soprano, et. al. (published by G. Schirmer)

Information about Graduate Admissions and Auditions can be found on the Graduate Degrees page.