Auditions are required for all School of Music applicants, except composition applicants who must submit scores and complete a composition interview (but may choose to audition if interested in studying privately on a major instrument or voice).
Musical theater auditions are not associated with the School of Music.
The School of Music has modified its audition procedure to ensure the health and safety of our prospective students, faculty, and staff. We are excited to continue offering meaningful opportunities to engage with our campus community, all from the comfort of your own home.
High School students should audition during their senior year or the winter prior to their year of enrollment.
Applicants will be able to select from the following audition methods, which will be indicated when submitting their Audition Form:
For specific information about this season's audition options, visit our 2020-21 Audition Process page.
In addition to the audition, all undergraduate applicants will be required to perform a brief sight-singing examination. This is not a theory test, but does measure the applicant's ability to match pitch, sing simple melodic lines unaccompanied, and to read basic rhythmic patterns. No formal voice training is necessary, but it is recommended that applicants practice these skills with a school music teacher or a private teacher prior to the audition.
Voice applicants should perform their pre-screening and audition with accompaniment. Instrumental applicants should perform unaccompanied.
We realize that during these unprecedented times it might be hard or impossible to arrange for a live accompaniment for your recording or audition. Therefore, we are accepting video submissions with recorded accompaniment in order to better support your audition effort. We would prefer a pre-recorded live accompaniment over a MIDI file, but will gladly accept either.
For more information about changes to the accompaniment policies this year due to COVID-19, please visit our Accompaniment page.
Musical theatre auditions are not associated with the School of Music. For musical theatre audition information, contact the Department of Theatre Arts via email at theatrearts@ithaca.edu, or via phone at (607) 274-3345.
For additional information about auditions, please contact the School of Music:
Music Admission Office
3322 Whalen Center for Music
953 Danby Road
Ithaca, NY 14850