Audition Policy
Hello Future Claflin Music Student!
We are excited for your interest in Claflin University, and we hope to make your audition process as easy as possible. If you have any questions about the Department or Audition process you can set up a meeting by contacting the interim department chair, Dr. Isaiah McGee (imcgee@claflin.edu). You may also e-mail any of the faculty directly if you have questions about Claflin, the music department, or the audition process. The contact information for the full music faculty can be found on the Claflin University Department of Music website.
To apply to the Music Department, you will need to 1) complete the music department audition form (this is different from the general Claflin University application), 2) audition, and 3) complete a theory diagnostic.
All parts of the application can be completed digitally. Detailed instructions are below. If you have questions or need assistance with any of these steps, please contact the Department’s Associate Administrative Assistant, Ms. Chung (dchung@claflin.edu).
- Music Department Audition Form
Complete the audition application form for the Department of Music which can be found on the department website or can be completed online through the link below. Specific instructions can be found in the document. The completed form can be emailed to Ms. Chung at dchung@claflin.edu.
Audition Link: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=AfJZgv9qNEidMrWwReliODGUut3on2xHtwc_hJDgTpRUQk1aWDIyTUpIV0Q1TUxXTzNTM0NWVVRONy4u
- Audition
Audition Requirements
1) Introduction and Questions
At the start of your audition, introduce yourself and provide some background about your musical experience. Below is a list of questions we would like you to answer. Your answers can be as short or as long as you like, but typically students answer these questions in 3-5 minutes.
· What is your name?
· What is your primary voice/instrument?
· What is your intended major?
2) Scales
You will perform scales to demonstrate range and technical ability. The specific requirements are listed below. Before performing each scale, tell us what is.
Example: “This is the F major scale, 2 octaves with arpeggio.”
· Vocal: Perform a major scale that demonstrates your vocal range
o You may sing on any syllable you like
· Piano: At least 2 major scales of your choice
o One starting on a white key and one starting on a black key
o Hands together
o Two octaves
o Include arpeggios
o Optional - 2 minor scales (same requirements as above)
· Instrumental: 2 major scales of your choice and 1 full-range chromatic scale
o Major scales
§ One sharp key scale and one flat key scale.
§ As many octaves as possible for the key
§ Include arpeggios
§ Comfortable performance range if full range is not possible
o Chromatic scale
§ Full instrumental range (if possible)
3) Music
You will perform two pieces of contrasting style to demonstrate your musical ability. Before performing each piece, tell us the title and composer.
Example: “This is “Alma del core” by Antonio Caldara.”
o Vocal and Piano: Perform from memory if possible
o Instrumental: May perform a single piece. Etudes are acceptable as audition repertoire to provide contrasting material.
- Music Theory Diagnostic
Complete the music theory diagnostic. This short test is designed to assess your knowledge of fundamentals of music notation and music theory (clefs, note names, rhythm and meter, and scales). The test is not timed, but it should not take you more than a half hour to complete.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Claflin University Department of Music