Saxophone Auditions at Ithaca College
Saxophone Auditions at Ithaca College
 Scheduling
AuditionsAudition
Requirements |
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SCHEDULING
AUDITIONS
Students wishing to schedule a saxophone audition at Ithaca
College should contact the Office
of Music Admissions as soon as possible. There are several on-campus
audition days scheduled each year, as well as a few off-campus ones in
selected cities. These audition days allow the students and their families
a chance to meet with and perform for Dr. Mauk, hear performances by some
of the College ensembles, meet with School of Music administrators, take
a campus tour, and get familiar with the new, "state of the art" James
J. Whalen Center for Music. Back to top
AUDITION
REQUIREMENTS
The following are the listed undergraduate audition requirements for
Saxophone:
1) Requirements for B.M. degrees in performance and performance/music educationKeep in mind that these are merely guidelines and students are not required to perform the suggested materials. The main goal is to demonstrate your highest level of performance ability. It is more important how you play than what you play, so select etudes and solos that show you at your best.
One complete major work: a concerto, sonata, or suite. One or two smaller works
(or movements from a major work) or Etudes in contrasting styles.
Major and minor scales and arpeggios, as previously learned. Sight-reading.2) Requirements for all other music degrees
Two prepared solo pieces in contrasting style, demonstrating lyrical and technical proficiencies.
Scales and arpeggios, as previously learned. Sight-reading.In addition to the requirements listed in 2) above, saxophonists auditioning for the Jazz Studies degree must perform three jazz standards that demonstrate style and improvisation ability. Many students choose to use a play-along, accompanimental CD or tape for this portion of the audition
The Ithaca College School of Music has a long tradition of graduate
education. Ithaca offers a Master
of Music degree in several areas. Students interested in
auditioning for one of these master's degrees may wish to contact Dr. Mauk
regarding specific audition requirements. Back to
top
AUDITION
INSTRUMENTS
Students may audition on any saxophone they choose (soprano, alto,
tenor, or baritone). The main concern for the student should be to demonstrate
his or her best playing. Do not plan to bring more than one saxophone to
play in the audition, as this will slow down the process for those coming
later in the day. The audition performance should be on the best quality
instrument available to the student.
Students primarily study alto repertoire in the private lessons. This
is because the bulk of the "standard repertoire" for saxophone has been
written for the alto. Students are encouraged to specialize on other instruments
(soprano, tenor, and baritone) where they feel a particular affinity and
skill. However, Dr. Mauk does not encourage soprano, tenor, or baritone
"majors," since this will severely limit the amount and quality of available
repertoire to study. Students will perform on most of the four saxophones
during their course of study (in bands, jazz ensemble, quartets, private
lessons). Back to top
HOW TO
PREPARE
Many students need guidance in preparing for a college audition. To
read Dr. Mauk's article,"How
to Prepare for the College Audition," just click on the
title. Take a look at his article to help you prepare for this and other
entrance auditions. Back to top
For specific questions dealing with the saxophone audition, instruments,
and audition materials, contact Dr. Mauk.
