In general, A and B level solos from the MSHSAA Prescribed Graded Music List (PML) are appropriate, as are any solos or etudes of comparable difficulty.
You should prepare audition material on keyboards (2 or 4 mallet), snare drum (concert
or rudimental), and timpani. Multiple percussion, drum set, world percussion, and
orchestral excerpts are optional, but should not be used as a substitute for snare,
keyboards, or timpani.
If you are also auditioning for a spot in the Pride battery, your audition should
include a rudimental snare solo or a quad/tenor solo.
Auditions are scheduled at 15-minute intervals.
Complete pieces, or a complete movement from a multi-movement work, are preferable.
More Details
Snare Drum
Demonstrate the ability to perform the following rudiments, at various dynamic levels
rolls- single stroke, double stroke, buzz
paradiddles- single, double, paradiddle-diddle
flams- alternating, flam taps, flam accents
drags
Perform a solo or etude that best demonstrates your abilities. Select an A or B level
solo from the MSHSAA Prescribed Graded Music List (PML), or a solo of comparable difficulty.
Notes
Advanced rudimental solos do not need to be part of your audition UNLESS you are also
auditioning for a marching band grant.
Marching band auditions are for those students interested in receiving a marching
band grant. Auditions for specific spots will take place during the summer camps.
For more information, contact the University Bands office.
Keyboards
Perform all 12 major scales and arpeggios, two octave range, using the rhythmic pattern
of your choice.
Perform a solo or etude that best demonstrates your abilities. Select an A or B level
solo from the MSHSAA Prescribed Graded Music List (PML), or a solo of comparable difficulty.
Timpani
Demonstrate the ability to tune four drums to a set of given pitches, using a pitch
pipe, tuning fork, or phone app.
Play a long roll (several seconds) moving from pp to ff to pp.
Perform a solo or etude that best demonstrates your abilities. Select an A or B level
solo from the MSHSAA Prescribed Graded Music List (PML), or a solo of comparable difficulty.
Drum Set
A drum set audition is not necessary unless you are auditioning for the jazz studies
program. For further information, contact a jazz studies faculty member.
Audition Instruments
We provide marimbas, vibes, timpani, and a concert snare drum. You must bring your
own sticks and mallets, and a copy of your audition material.
Note
All incoming undergraduate students wanting to audition for a music major must also
take the theory entrance exam.