Auditions
Advanced EnsemblesThere is no audition for general membership in the University Band. If you are willing to commit to the band, the band will commit to you! However, auditions are required for our advanced ensembles and Performing Arts Magnet.
Performing Arts Magnet
Students auditioning for the Instrumental Track of the Performing Arts Magnet will perform the following:
- A solo or étude of your choosing. (An All State étude or Solo & Ensemble selection would work well.)
Please bring an extra copy of the music for us to view as you perform. - As many major scales as you can play.
- A short sight-reading selection.
You can view the audition rubric here: Audition Rubric
Audition Timeline
- TBD | Satellite Auditions
- February 15 | Application window closes
- February 21 | On site auditions (2:30 - 5:30 PM)
- February 24 | Seat offers sent
The full magnet application process can be found at the Magnet Page.
Please note that if you are accepted into the Magnet Program, you will still need to complete a Concert/Percussion/Jazz audition in May to determine your ensemble placement.
Woodwinds/Brass
Ensemble placement audition requirements can be found here:
There are a limited number of seats in the Wind Ensemble. Once those are filled, students who auditioned will be placed into the Symphonic Band. No audition is required for the Concert Band.
You can view the rubric here: Audition Rubric
Percussion
The percussion audition will consist of the following:
- Snare Étude
- Tympani Étude
Students will perform the tympani excerpt with the recording linked below. Be SURE to practice with the recording as much as possible. The excerpt begins at 5:20. Remember that notes and rhythms are a given, but a true musical performance involves playing with an appropriate touch as well as a deep understanding of what the ensemble is playing. Our job as timpanists is to enhance and sometimes dictate the articulation of the ensemble.
To view the tympani recording, click here.
- Mallet Étude
Jazz Band
Students who would like to audition for the Big Band must also complete a standard Wind Ensemble or Percussion audition.
There are a limited number of seats in the Big Band. No audition is required for the Jazz Ensemble.