We use cookies on this site to enhance your experience.
By selecting “Accept” and continuing to use this website, you consent to the use of cookies.
Bachelor of Music Audition Process and Requirements
At Laurier, we believe that every musician in unique, and our auditions are your opportunity to share that uniqueness with us. Whether you're passionate about classical or contemporary and commercial** genres, our audition process is designed to showcase your talents and potential.
**Contemporary and commercial music encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Meet our Auditions Coordinator
"As a former Music student at Laurier, I understand that auditioning for different programs can be stressful. Rest assured, we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need advice about the audition process, don’t hesitate to reach out. We're committed to making your audition experience as smooth and positive as possible."
Contact Alyssa | musicauditions@wlu.ca
To apply for an audition at Laurier’s Faculty of Music, start by submitting your application through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC). Once we receive your application from OUAC, you’ll receive an email with login information for our Online Audition Portal (available starting December 15).
In the Online Audition Portal, you’ll need to provide the following:
- Contact Information: Your personal contact details.
- Preferred Audition/Interview Date: Select your preferred in-person audition and interview date(s).
- Reference Information: Provide contact details for one reference. We’ll contact your reference via email to complete a questionnaire.
- Academic Information: Share your current academic details.
- Musical Background & Career Goals: Outline your musical experience and future aspirations.
- Optional Portfolio: You may submit an optional portfolio featuring past performances, composed, or original music via video or audio links.
- Audition Fee: A non-refundable $70 audition fee, payable by credit card.
After submitting the required information and fee, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your audition date within seven days.
Your audition at Laurier’s Faculty of Music is your chance to shine and express your musical talent and passion. You'll perform selected pieces in front of our faculty, followed by a brief interview where we'll discuss your musical journey, goals, and why Laurier is your choice. We’re eager to see your technical skill, but also your unique musical voice and potential. You may also be asked to demonstrate sight-reading or other musicianship skills. Our goal is to provide a supportive and encouraging environment so you can perform at your best.
Throughout the day, you'll be accompanied by Audition Assistants—current Laurier music students—who will guide you through the process, answer any questions, and take you on a tour of the music building.
Throughout the day, you'll be accompanied by Audition Assistants—current Laurier music students—who will guide you through the process, answer any questions, and take you on a tour of the music building.
Most applicants will receive their audition results after all candidates for their instrument have been auditioned, which may be as late as April or May.
If your audition is successful, you’ll receive an email from the Faculty of Music recommending you for admission. Please note, this recommendation does not guarantee acceptance. To receive an official offer of admission, you must meet all academic requirements of the university in addition to the Faculty of Music’s recommendation. Laurier’s Recruitment and Admissions Office will then issue your official offer.
If your audition is not successful, you will automatically be considered for admission to another program at Laurier, and Recruitment and Admissions will contact you with alternative options.
Regardless of the outcome, the Faculty of Music will notify all students of their audition results via email.
If your audition is successful, you’ll receive an email from the Faculty of Music recommending you for admission. Please note, this recommendation does not guarantee acceptance. To receive an official offer of admission, you must meet all academic requirements of the university in addition to the Faculty of Music’s recommendation. Laurier’s Recruitment and Admissions Office will then issue your official offer.
If your audition is not successful, you will automatically be considered for admission to another program at Laurier, and Recruitment and Admissions will contact you with alternative options.
Regardless of the outcome, the Faculty of Music will notify all students of their audition results via email.
Audition Requirements by Instrument
Please prepare:
- 2 contrasting pieces or movements.
- 1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- Prepare major and minor scales.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- Mozart, Sonata for Bassoon and Cello, K292.
- Vivaldi, Concerto in A minor, RV 498.
- Weber, Concerto in F.
- Milde, Scale and Arpeggio Studies, Op. 24.
- Milde, Concert Studies, Op. 26.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
- 1 movement of solo Bach from the Six Suites for Solo Cello.
- 1 movement from a concerto.
- 1 movement of a piece of your choice. This could include an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- 1 scale of your choice.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- A movement of a sonata by Vivaldi, Beethoven, or Grieg.
- Mark Summer, Julie-O.
- One of Schumann’s Fantasiestücke.
- A movement from a concerto by Leo, Haydn, Lalo, Saint-Saëns or equivalent.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
- 2 contrasting pieces or movements.
- 1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- Prepare major and minor scales.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- Finzi, Five Bagatelles.
- Poulenc, Sonata.
- Mozart, Concerto.
- Tartini/Jacob, Concertino.
- Schumann, Fantasy Pieces.
- Weber, Concertino
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
- 2 contrasting pieces or movements.
- 1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- 1 scale of your choice.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- A movement from a sonata by Vivaldi or Marcello.
- An etude from Simandl 30 Etudes, or similar.
Please note: an acoustic instrument is required upon acceptance to the program.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
- 2 contrasting pieces or movements.
- 1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- Prepare major and minor scales.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- James Curnow, Rhapsody for Euphonium.
- Donald Matthew, Cantilena and Caprice.
- Cait Nishimura, Tundra.
- Howard Cable, Point Pelee.
- Jonathan Rowsell, Solace.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
- 2 contrasting pieces or movements.
- 1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- Prepare major and minor scales.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- Anna Bon, Soantas Op. 1 (any).
- Faure, Fantasie, Op. 79.
- Mozart, Concertino in G (K.313) or D (K.314).
- Pergolesi, Concerto in G.
- Poulenc, Flute Sonata.
- Valerie Coleman, Legends or Fanmi Imen.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
- 2 contrasting pieces or movements.
- 1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- Prepare major and minor scales.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- Mozart, Concerto No. 3 in E-flat, first movement, any edition.
- Anything from Solos for the Horn Player, selected and edited by Mason Jones, published by G. Schirmer.
Suggested etudes include:
- Maxime-Alphonse, Etudes, Book 1, published by A. Leduc.
- Kopprasch, Sixty Selected Etudes for French Horn, Book 1, any edition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please note that the classical guitar program uses standard notation, and you must play on a nylon-string classical or flamenco guitar with at least six strings, without accompaniment or amplification. Other than that, the program allows an immense level of diversity of styles, periods, and genres.
Please prepare:
3 contrasting solo guitar pieces (at least one memorized), all from different styles and periods.
Pieces can be chosen from the following categories:
- Renaissance
- Baroque
- Classical
- Romantic
- 20th Century
- Written music or transcriptions of music by Spanish, South and Central American composers
- Written music or transcriptions of music from non-Western countries
- Contemporary music (21st Century)
- Original solo composition, solo guitar arrangement, or solo improvisation*
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- Maximo Diego Pujol, Candombe en Mi.
- Mauro Giuliani, Caprice, op. 100, no. 11.
- Johann Sebastian Bach, Prelude, BMW 999.
- Andrew York, Sunburst.
- One of Luigi Legnani’s Caprices.
- Taiwo Adegoke, Sunrise in Africa.
- Any etude by Matteo Carcassi or Fernando Sor.
- An etude by Leo Brouwer, Heitor Villa-Lobos, Gerald Garcia, Frederic Hand, or Abel Carlevaro.
- One original solo guitar piece or arrangement. *
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
- 3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- 2 contrasting pieces or movements.
- 1 etude or a traditional guzheng piece. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- For traditional Guzheng pieces, you may choose one from the nine major genres: Hakka genre, Chaozhou genre, Zhejiang genre, Minnan genre, Shaanxi genre, Shandong genre, Henan genre, Korean genre, or Mongolian genre.
- For the etude, you can refer to the Central Conservatory of Music’s Guzheng Grading Book (Overseas Edition) to select an etude.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
- 2 contrasting pieces
- 1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- Handel, Passacaille.
- Grandjany, Automne.
- Salzedo, Siciliana or Chanson dans la Nuit.
- Alfredo Rolando Ortiz, Una Noche. From The International Rhythmic Collection 2 ORT.
- An etude by Pozzoli, Salzedo, Bochsa, Bach or Naderman.
- Monika Stadler, On the Water.
- An O’Carolan tune arranged by Sylvia Woods or Kim Robertson.
- Sharlene Wallace, Dream Habanera or Cariboo Wagon Road.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Information to come.
Please prepare:
- 2 contrasting pieces or movements.
- 1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- Prepare major and minor scales.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- Cimarosa, Concerto. First two movements.
- Handel, Sonatas in C minor or F major. First two movements.
- Haydn, Concerto in C major. First movement.
- Marcello, Concerto in C (or D) minor. First two movements.
- Mozart, Quartet for Oboe and Strings, K370. First movement.
- Mozart, Concerto in C major, K314. First movement.
- Telemann, Sonata in A minor. First two movements.
- Archer, Four Moods for Solo Oboe. One movement of your choice.
- Britten, Six Metamorphoses. One movement of your choice.
- Dring, Italian Dance.
- Dring, Three Piece Suite. One movement of your choice.
- Gipps, Sea-Shore Suite, Op. 3b. One movement of your choice.
- Hétu, Incantation, Op. 28.
- Hindemith, Sonata. First movement.
- Nash, 9 NYC Miniatures. Any two contrasting movements
- Nielsen, Two Fantasy Pieces. Both movements.
- Poulenc, Sonata. First movement.
- Saint-Saëns, Oboe Sonata. First or second movement.
- Still, Incantation and Dance.
Please note: Acquiring a rudimentary knowledge of reed-making prior to the start of the program is strongly advised.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Prepare three pieces, one from each of the following groups.
Memorization is recommended. Examples are meant to show a range of possibility in terms of difficulty, forms, and composers.
Group 1: A work from the Baroque era, or featuring a polyphonic texture.
Some examples include:
- Carlos Seixas, Sonata No. 7 in D minor, from 25 Sonatas para Instrumentos de Tecla.
- J.S. Bach, Sinfonia No. 11 in G minor, BWV 797.
- A fugue from a Prelude and Fugue by Dmitry Shostakovich or Vincent Ho.
Group 2: A movement from a Classical sonata.
Some examples include:
- Maria Hester Park, Sonata in E-flat Major, Op. 4 no. 2, Mvmt. I, Allegretto.
- Ludwig van Beethoven, Sonata No. 26 in E-flat Major, Op. 81a “Les Adieu,” Mvmt. III, Das Wiedersehn: Vivacissimamente.
Group 3: A work written after 1825. Some examples include:
- Fanny Mendelssohn, May from Das Jahr.
- Coleridge-Taylor Perinson, Toccata.
- Mily Balakirev, Islamey.
You may substitute a piece from one group for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Prospective students shall audition on snare drum, timpani, and mallet percussion. Instruments for auditions will be provided. Students must provide their own sticks, mallets and brushes. Please bring at least one copy of sheet music for the audition panel.
Students should be prepared to speak briefly about their repertoire selections and asked to comment on their musical interests and career aspirations. We recommend that you prepare by making sure you have done some research on the composers of your pieces.
Snare Drum
- two (2) contrasting snare drum solos (one using closed rolls, one using open rolls)
- knowledge of basic rudiments and ornaments – PAS International Drum Rudiments
- Sight Reading
Repertoire Examples (or similar):
- WHALEY – Musical Studies for the Intermediate Snare Drummer
- CIRONE – Portraits in Rhythm
- PRATT – 14 Modern Contest Solos
- WILCOXON – The All American Drummer
Timpani
- one (1) timpani étude or solo
- Tuning of a major triad
Repertoire Examples (or similar):
- FIRTH – The Solo Timpanist
- CARROLL – Exercises, Etudes and Solos for the Timpani
- WHALEY – Musical Studies for the Intermediate Timpanist
- PETERS – Fundamental Method for Timpani
Mallet Percussion
- one OR two solos on either marimba, xylophone or vibraphone demonstrating two and/or four-mallet technique
- Major and minor (harmonic and chromatic) scales, two octaves
- Sight Reading
Repertoire Examples (or similar):
- MACMILLAN – Masterpieces for Marimba
- BACH – Six Sonatas & Partitas for Solo Violin
- BACH – Six Suites for Solo Cello
- GREEN/EYLES – Xylophone Rags of George Hamilton Green
- GOMEZ/RIFE – Rain Dance
- PETERS – Yellow After the Rain
- HOPPER – Ghost Garden
Drum Set (optional)
Students may also demonstrate drum set proficiency. Applicants may demonstrate selected examples from the following list of styles/grooves:
- Medium Swing
- Up-Tempo Swing
- Ballad (w/ brushes)
- Shuffle
- Funk
- Rock
- Disco
- Bossa Nova
- Mambo
- Calypso/Soca
- Reggae
Global Percussion (optional)
Students may also demonstrate proficiency on any global percussion instrument in any style including, but not limited to:
- Tabla
- Congas
- Bongos
- Djembe
- Cajon
A drum set for auditions will be provided. Students are welcome to bring their own cymbals. Students must provide their own sticks, mallets and brushes. Please bring at least one copy of your prepared snare drum piece for the audition panel. Students should be prepared to speak briefly about their repertoire selection and comment on their musical interests and career aspirations.
Drum Set Styles
Students should be prepared to play any of the following list of styles/grooves:
- Medium Swing
- Up-Tempo Swing
- Ballad (w/ brushes)
- Shuffle
- Funk
- Rock
- Disco
- Bossa Nova
- Mambo
- Calypso/Soca
- Reggae
Snare Drum
- a short solo or étude that includes rolls and rudiments
- knowledge of basic rudiments and ornaments – PAS International Drum Rudiments
- sight reading
Repertoire Examples (or similar):
- WHALEY – Musical Studies for the Intermediate Snare Drummer
- CIRONE – Portraits in Rhythm
- PRATT – 14 Modern Contest Solos
- WILCOXON – The All American Drummer
Improvisation / Trading
- You will be asked to play time and improvise trading two and four bar phrases with another instrumentalist.
Sight Reading
- You will be given sheet music for the drum set and asked to sight read the chart.
Global Percussion (optional)
Students may also demonstrate proficiency in any style global percussion instrument including, but not limited to:
- Tabla
- Congas
- Bongos
- Djembe
- Cajon
Concert Percussion (optional)
Students may also demonstrate concert percussion proficiency. Applicants should be prepared to demonstrate the following:
one (1) OR two (2) solos on either marimba, xylophone or vibraphone demonstrating two and/or four-mallet techniqueRepertoire Examples (or similar):
- MACMILLAN – Masterpieces for Marimba
- BACH – Six Sonatas & Partitas for Solo Violin
- BACH – Six Suites for Solo Cello
- GREEN/EYLES – Xylophone Rags of George Hamilton Green
- GOMEZ/RIFE – Rain Dance
- PETERS – Yellow After the Rain
- HOPPER – Ghost Garden
Repertoire Examples (or similar):
Please prepare:
- 2 contrasting pieces or movements.
- 1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- Prepare major and minor scales.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- Bonneau, Suite for Alto Saxophone. Publisher: Leduc.
- Bozza, Aria. Publisher: Leduc.
- Eccles, Sonate. Publisher: Elkan Vogel.
- Heiden, Sonata. Publisher: Schott.
- Handel, Sonata No. 3. Publisher: Rascher.
- Still, Romance. Publisher: International.
- Maurice, Tableaux de Provence. Publisher: Lemoines.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
- 2 contrasting pieces or movements.
- 1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- Prepare major and minor scales.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
Suggested repertoire for tenor trombone:
- J.E. Barat, Andante and Allegro.
- A. Guilmant, Morceau Symphonique.
- S. Rousseau, Piece Concertante.
- P.V de la Nux, Concert Piece.
- A sonata by Galliard or Marcello, transcribed for tenor trombone.
- Boutry, Tubaroque.
- Lieb, Concertino Basso.
- Galliard, Sonata No. 5, transcribed for bass trombone.
- Vivaldi, Cello Sonata No. 3, transcribed for bass trombone.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
- 2 contrasting pieces or movements.
- 1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- Prepare major and minor scales.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- Haydn, Concerto for Trumpet. Second movement.
- Balay, Prelude e Ballade.
- Handel, Sonata, HWV 373. Movements 1 and 2.
- Monhardt, So Soft the Silver Sound and Clear.
- Robbins, Mont Saint Michel.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
-
2 contrasting pieces or movements.
-
1 etude. This may be substituted for an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
-
Prepare major and minor scales.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- Cait Nishimura, She Danced in the Rain.
- Anne McGinty, Hexagon. Movements 1, 2, and 3.
- James Curnow, Concertino for Tuba.
- Don Haddad, Suite for Tuba.
- Arthur Frackenpohl, Concertino for Tuba.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
- 1 movement of solo Bach from either the Six Suites for Solo Cello or the partitas and sonatas for solo violin.
- 1 movement from a concerto.
- 1 movement or piece of your choice. This could include an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- 1 scale of your choice.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- A movement from Concertos by JC Bach, Hoffmeister, Stamitz or equivalent.
- Bruch, Romance.
- Bloch, Suite Hebraique.
- An original tune.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
- 1 movement of solo Bach (from the solo partitas and sonatas for violin).
- 1 movement from a concerto.
- 1 movement or piece of your choice. This could include an original composition or a work from a non-Classical genre.
- 3-octave scale of your choice.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
While these are only suggestions, examples of possible repertoire could include:
- Bruch, Violin Concerto
- Kabalevsky, Violin Concerto
- Mendelssohn, Violin Concerto
- Mozart, Violin Concerto
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
A contemporary violin audition could mean performing traditional fiddle music, including old-time, bluegrass, western swing, swing, jazz, Texas style, and Celtic.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Please prepare:
Three contrasting songs (memorized) with piano accompaniment.
- At least one song must be in English.
- At least one song must be in a non-English language.
Choose selections from the standard classical and musical theater vocal repertory* in contrasting styles and languages, that reflects a healthy vocal technique.
* If desired, one song may be substituted for a song in a Contemporary Commercial (CCM) genre (ex. Pop, jazz, folk, rock, etc).
- Vocal potential and ability
- A passion for singing and communicating
- Facility for languages; clarity of diction
- Enthusiasm and curiosity for learning about music and the voice
Examples of possible repertoire include:
- English song: Simple Gifts (arr. Aaron Copland), Night (Florence Price).
- Italian art song: Amor preparami (Scarlatti, arr. Paton), Amarilli mia bella (Giulio Caccini).
- German lied: Die Lotosblume (Robert Schumann), Lachen und Weinen (Franz Schubert).
- French mélodie: Le Charme (Ernest Chausson), Les Berceaux (Gabriel Fauré).
- Musical Theatre: Lucky to Be Me (Leonard Bernstein), Goodnight My Someone (Meredith Willson).
- Pop/Rock/Jazz – other CCM Styles: Blackbird (the Beatles), What About Us? (Pink), I Got Rhythm (George Gershwin).
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contemporary and commercial music, encompasses works from a wide range of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, electronic, hip-hop, and experimental music. This list is not exhaustive; there are many other genres within contemporary music that may not be mentioned here. We welcome auditions in any of these genres and more.
Please prepare:
-
3 contrasting pieces, in any genre or style, that display your musical range and abilities.
All, or portions only of pieces, may be heard at the audition, depending on time. You may choose which piece you perform first at the audition.
Examples include:
- A solo piece or pieces that demonstrate your level of playing.
- An original composition.
- A song to demonstrate your singing voice with self-accompaniment.
- A piece or pieces that you will perform with other players and/or singers (e.g., with a jazz combo, band or vocal ensemble).
- A short (two to three minutes) improvisation.
Pre-recorded or live accompaniment may be used for your audition.
If you are a multi-instrumentalist, you are welcome and encouraged to submit video performances on a secondary instrument in an optional digital portfolio, or contact musicauditions@wlu.ca to discuss personalized options.
Digital portfolios can be submitted when you fill out your online audition application.
Contact Us:
Want to learn more about the Faculty of Music at Laurier? Come visit us or request our viewbook.