Preparing for a Music Scholarship Audition is similar to preparing for the ACT or SAT. Auditions qualify you for admittance to a music program, and the quality of your performance greatly influences the amount of any financial aid you may be awarded. The following guidelines will help your Music Scholarship Audition be successful.

1. Schedule your audition date. Music Scholarship Auditions can be arranged at a time convenient to you and the music faculty. Many students audition on Presidential Scholarship Day, which for 2003 is Sunday, February 16. Call Dana Admissions at (800) 444-3262 to schedule a time.
2. Choose the right music. Contest solos are appropriate selections for vocal and instrumental auditions. Band or choir music does not represent your musical talent the best. Choose a solo that showcases your musical strengths and minimizes your weaknesses. A list of recommended instrumental solos can be found here. Ask your vocal instructor for music suggestions for vocal auditions.
3. Start practicing early. For students currently preparing a solo for district contest, two weeks of serious practice is recommended as minimum preparation time. If you are not already working on a solo, we recommend six weeks of practice prior to your audition.
4. Pay attention to details. Not only are correct notes and rhythms important, but also essential is style, phrasing, articulations, tempo and dynamics. Work to make your tone beautiful and resonant, and your playing or singing to be truly expressive of the music.
5. Scales, scales, scales. For instrumental auditions scales are an important facet of determining your tone, range and intonation. Scales should be performed ascending and descending from memory at the speed of a quarter note = 80 beats per minute. Play scales two octaves whenever possible. You will be asked two major scales from the included list and one chromatic scale starting on a note of your choice.
6. Sight reading. For instrumental auditions sight reading is an important component. You can practice sight reading from etude books and even hymnals. Ten minutes of daily sight reading practice will greatly help you. Be sure to practice counting and fingering the music before you attempt playing.
7. Accompaniment. Piano accompaniment is not required for instrumental auditions. However, you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.

The Dana College Music Faculty is looking forward to meeting you and hearing you perform. Best wishes in your preparation.

If you have any further questions please call Prof. William Hall or email at whall@acad2.dana.edu.