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Conservatory Entrance Audition Requirements

STRINGS

CELLO

Cello audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes to your requirements.

MERIT STRING ORCHESTRA

Repertoire: 2 contrasting solos at the same level of difficulty as Marcello’s Sonata Op. 1 No. 2 or higher. (Memorization is strongly encouraged) 

Orchestra Excerpts:

Scales: metronome ♩=60

  • C Major 3 Octave Scale slur 2 notes/bow
  • F Major 2 Octave Scale (3rd Position) slur 4 notes/bow
  • D Minor 2 Octave Scale single note/bow

(Scales must be memorized)

STRING ORCHESTRA RETURNING STUDENTS

All current String Orchestra students planning to return to String Orchestra for the 2020/2021 academic year should prepare: 

  • a solo piece of their choice.  
  • orchestral excerpts

Additionally, excerpts for each instrument will be available via Google Drive.  The link will be emailed no later than February 5th, please check with your Program Director or Manager if you have any questions.  

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Repertoire: 2 contrasting solos at the same level of difficulty as Rondo from J.B. Breval’s Cello Concerto No. 2 in D Major or higher. (Memorization is strongly encouraged) 

Orchestra Excerpts:

Scales:

  • C Melodic Minor 3 Octave Scale, Slur 3 notes/bow
  • F Melodic Minor 3 Octave Scale, Slur 4 notes/bow
  • G Major 3 Octave Scale, 3 Spiccato strokes on each note

(Scales must be memorized)

MERIT PHILHARMONIC RETURNING STUDENTS

String Orchestra students returning to Merit planning on auditioning up into Merit Philharmonic must prepare the “new student” Merit Philharmonic audition requirements (see above).

All current Merit Philharmonic students planning to return to Merit Philharmonic for the 2020/2021 academic year should prepare:

Excerpts for each instrument will also be available via Google Drive.  The link will be emailed no later than March 15th, please check with your Program Director or Manager if you have any questions.

DOUBLE BASS

Double Bass audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes to your requirements.

STRING ORCHESTRA

Repertoire: Solo piece or etude of the student’s choice (Memorization is strongly encouraged) 

Excerpts:

Scales:

  • A Major 2 Octave Scale slur 2 notes/bow
  • E Melodic Minor 2 Octave Scale single note/bow

(Scales must be memorized) 

STRING ORCHESTRA RETURNING STUDENTS

All current String Orchestra students planning to return to String Orchestra for the 2020/2021 academic year should prepare: 

  • a solo piece of their choice.  
  • orchestral excerpts 
    • To be added by Feb 5

Additionally, excerpts for each instrument will be available via Google Drive.  The link will be emailed no later than February 5th, please check with your Program Director or Manager if you have any questions.  

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Repertoire: Solo piece or etude of the student’s choice

Excerpts:

Scales:

  • A Flat Major 2 Octave Scale, 4 Spiccato strokes on each note
  • C Melodic Minor 2 Octave Scale, Slur 2 notes/bow

(Scales must be memorized)

MERIT PHILHARMONIC RETURNING STUDENTS

String Orchestra students returning to Merit planning on auditioning up into Merit Philharmonic must prepare the “new student” Merit Philharmonic audition requirements (see above).

All current Merit Philharmonic students planning to return to Merit Philharmonic for the 2020/2021 academic year should prepare:

Additionally, excerpts for each instrument will be available via Google Drive.  The link will be emailed no later than February 5th, please check with your Program Director or Manager if you have any questions.  

VIOLA

Viola audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes to your requirements.

MERIT STRING ORCHESTRA

Repertoire: 2 contrasting solos at the same level of difficulty as A. Vivaldi’s Concerto in D Minor, First Movement or higher. (Memorization is strongly encouraged) 

Orchestra Excerpts: 

Scales:

  • D Melodic Minor 2 Octave Scale slur 2 notes/bow
  • C Major 3 Octave Scale slur 4 notes/bow
  • E Flat Major 2 Octave Arpeggio single note/bow

(Scales and arpeggios must be memorized)  

STRING ORCHESTRA RETURNING STUDENTS

All current String Orchestra students planning to return to String Orchestra for the 2020/2021 academic year should prepare: 

  • a solo piece of their choice.  
  • orchestral excerpts for their instrument 

Additionally, excerpts for each instrument will be available via Google Drive.  The link will be emailed no later than February 5th, please check with your Program Director or Manager if you have any questions.  

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Repertoire: 2 contrasting solos at the same level of difficulty as J.C. Bach’s Concerto in C Minor, First Movement or higher. (Memorization is strongly encouraged) 

Orchestra Excerpts: 

Scales: metronome ♩=60

  • C Melodic Minor 3 Octave Scale, 3 Spiccato strokes on each note
  • G Major 3 Octave Scale, Slur 4 notes/bow
  • F Major 3 Octave Arpeggio, slur 3 notes/bow

(Scales and arpeggios must be memorized)  

MERIT PHILHARMONIC RETURNING STUDENTS

String Orchestra students returning to Merit planning on auditioning up into Merit Philharmonic must prepare the “new student” Merit Philharmonic audition requirements (see above).

All current Merit Philharmonic students planning to return to Merit Philharmonic for the 2020/2021 academic year should prepare:

Additionally, excerpts for each instrument will be available via Google Drive.  The link will be emailed no later than February 5th, please check with your Program Director or Manager if you have any questions.  

VIOLIN

Violin audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes to your requirements.

MERIT STRING ORCHESTRA

Repertoire: 2 contrasting solos at the same level of difficulty as A. Vivaldi’s Concerto in A Minor, First Movement or higher. (Memorization is strongly encouraged) 

Orchestra Excerpts: 

Scales: metronome ♩=60

  • C Melodic Minor 2 Octave Scale (3rd Position) slur 2 notes/bow
  • A Major 3 Octave Scale slur 4 notes/bow
  • B flat Major 2 Octave Arpeggio single note/bow

(Scales and arpeggios must be memorized)

STRING ORCHESTRA RETURNING STUDENTS

All current String Orchestra students planning to return to String Orchestra for the 2020/2021 academic year should prepare: 

  • a solo piece of their choice.
  • orchestral excerpts
  • Mozart
  • Elgar

Additionally, excerpts for each instrument will be available via Google Drive.  The link will be emailed no later than February 5th, please check with your Program Director or Manager if you have any questions.  

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Repertoire: 2 contrasting solos at the same level of difficulty as J.S. Bach’s Violin Concerto in A Minor, First Movement or higher. (Memorization is strongly encouraged) 

Orchestra Excerpts: 

Scales:

  • B Flat Melodic Minor 3 Octave Scale, slur 2 notes/bow
  • E Major 3 Octave Scale, 3 Spiccato strokes on each note
  • C Major 3 Octave Arpeggio, slur 3 notes/bow

(Scales and arpeggios must be memorized)  

MERIT PHILHARMONIC RETURNING STUDENTS

String Orchestra students returning to Merit planning on auditioning up into Merit Philharmonic must prepare the “new student” Merit Philharmonic audition requirements (see above).

String students should prepare:

  • a solo piece of their choice.
  • orchestral excerpts

Additionally, excerpts for each instrument will be available via Google Drive.  The link will be emailed no later than February 5th, please check with your Program Director or Manager if you have any questions.  

WOODWINDS/ BRASS/ PERCUSSION

BASSOON

Bassoon audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

CONCERT BAND

New 20/21: All current Concert Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble. 

Required Etudes: Etudes (2) [Revised 3/10/2020]

Scales: Scale Sheet

  • Concert Eb Major (1 octave, up and down)
  • Chromatic (1 octave, up and down, starting on Concert Bb)

Seating Excerpt: Neeck – Voyage to the Edge of the World(please prepare measures 19-26; 89-97; 128-135. Annotated parts now available above.)

SYMPHONIC BAND

All current Symphonic Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble. 

Required Etudes: Etude 1, Etude 2

Scales: 

  • Concert F Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)
  • Concert Db Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)

WIND SYMPHONY

All current Wind Symphony students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Repertoire:

Students are strongly recommended to prepare these marked excerpts from the 2020-21 ILMEA etudes. 

OR

If this is not feasible, students may also choose from one of the following solos. Please submit two contrasting 30-60 second excerpts the the piece in liue of the ILMEA etudes.

  • WA. Mozart – Movement 3 from Concerto for Bassoon in B flat Major (K 191)
  • G. Pierné- Concert Piece, Op. 35  
  • E. Bourdeau- Premiere Solo  
  • P. Hindemith – Movement 1 or 2 from Sonata
  • G. P. Telemann – Movement 1, 2 or 4 from Sonata in F minor for Bassoon and Piano
  • Students may also present an alternate solo of comparable difficulty. 

Scales: ILMEA Scale Sheet – Lines 5 – 12 (scroll to find your instrument)

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Students auditioning for Wind Symphony may also audition for the Merit Philharmonic. Students will need to sign up for two audition time slots in order to audition for Merit Philharmonic. Students MUST audition for and be accepted into Wind Symphony in order to be considered for Merit Philharmonic.

CLARINET

Clarinet audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

CONCERT BAND

New 20/21: All current Concert Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.

Required Etudes: Etudes (2) [Revised 3/10/2020]

Scales: Scale Sheet

  • Concert Eb Major (1 octave, up and down)
  • Chromatic (1 octave, up and down, starting on Concert Bb)

Seating Excerpt: Neeck – Voyage to the Edge of the World (please prepare measures 53-64; 107-113. Annotated parts now available above.)

SYMPHONIC BAND

All current Symphonic Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.

Required Etudes: Etude 1, Etude 2

Scales: 

  • Concert F Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)
  • Concert Db Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)

WIND SYMPHONY

All current Wind Symphony students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Repertoire:

Students are strongly recommended to prepare these excerpts from the 2020-21 ILMEA etudes.

OR

If this is not feasible, students may also choose from one of the following solos. Please submit two contrasting 30-60 second excerpts from the piece in lieu of the ILMEA etudes.  

  • C. M. von Weber – Concertino in E-flat Major, Op. 26(beginning through Variation 1)
  • W. A. Mozart – Movement 1 (exposition) from Concerto in A Major (K.622)  
  • I. Stravinsky – Any two movements from Three Pieces 
  • Students may also present an alternate solo of comparable difficulty. 

Scales: ILMEA Scale Sheet – Lines 5 – 12 (scroll for your instrument)

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Students auditioning for Wind Symphony may also audition for the Merit Philharmonic. Students will need to sign up for two audition time slots in order to audition for Merit Philharmonic. Students MUST audition for and be accepted into Wind Symphony in order to be considered for Merit Philharmonic.

EUPHONIUM

Euphonium audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changed in your requirements.

CONCERT BAND

New 20/21: All current Concert Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes: Etudes (2) [Revised 3/10/2020]

Scales:

  • Concert Eb Major (1 octave, up and down)
  • Chromatic (1 octave, up and down, starting on Concert Bb)

Seating Excerpt:

Treble Clef: Neeck – Voyage to the Edge of the World 

Bass Clef: Neeck – Voyage to the Edge of the World (please prepare 19-26; 89-97; 128-135. Annotated parts available above.)

SYMPHONIC BAND

All current Symphonic Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes: Etude 1, Etude 2

Scales:

  • Concert F Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)
  • Concert Db Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)

Sight-reading

WIND SYMPHONY

All current Wind Symphony students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Repertoire:

Students are strongly recommended to prepare these marked excerpts from the 2020-21 ILMEA etudes.

OR

If that is not feasible, students may also choose from one of the following solos. Please submit two contrasting 30-60 second excerpts from the piece in lieu of the ILMEA etudes.

  • G.P. Telemann – Sonata in F Minor   
  • A. Guilmant- Morceau Symphonique   
  • J.S.Bach – Suite for Unaccompanied Cello  
  • A. Capuzzi- Andante and Rondo   
  • E. Ewazen- Concerto for Euphonium  
  • A. Pryor -Blue Bells of Scotland
  • V. Williams -6Studies in English Folk Song  
  • M. Ellerby- Concerto For Euphonium  
  • Students may also present an alternate solo of comparable difficulty. 

Scales: ILMEA Scale Sheet  – Lines 5 – 12 (scroll for your instrument)

FLUTE

Flute audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

CONCERT BAND

New 20/21: All current Concert Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes: Etudes (2) [Revised 3/10/2020]

Scales:

  • Concert Eb Major (1 octave, up and down)
  • Chromatic (1 octave, up and down, starting on Concert Bb)

Seating Excerpt: Neeck – Voyage to the Edge of the World (please prepare measures 19-26; 89-113. Annotated parts available above.)

SYMPHONIC BAND

All current Symphonic Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes:  Etudes 1 and 2

Scales: 

  • Concert F Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)
  • Concert Db Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)

WIND SYMPHONY

All current Wind Symphony students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Repertoire:

Students are strongly recommended to prepare these marked excerpts from the 2020-21 ILMEA etudes.

OR

If this is not feasible, students may also choose from one of the following solos: 

  • W. A. Mozart – Movement 1 from either Concerto in G Major (K 313) or Concerto in D Major (K314)
  • A. Vivaldi – Movement 1 from “IlGardellino” Concerto (RV 428)
  • C. Griffes- Poem  
  • G. Faure -Fantasie
  • G. Enesco – Cantabile et Presto
  • P. Hindemith – Sonata
  • Students may also present an alternate solo of comparable difficulty. 

Scales: ILMEA Scale Sheet  – Lines 5 – 12 (scroll for your instrument)

Sight-reading 

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Students auditioning for Wind Symphony may also audition for the Merit Philharmonic. Students will need to sign up for two audition time slots in order to audition for Merit Philharmonic. Students MUST audition for and be accepted into Wind Symphony in order to be considered for Merit Philharmonic.

HORN

Horn audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

CONCERT BAND

New 20/21: All current Concert Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble. 

Required Etudes: Etudes (2) [Revised 3/10/2020]

Scales:

  • Concert Eb Major (1 octave, up and down)
  • Chromatic (1 octave, up and down, starting on Concert Bb)

Seating Excerpt: Neeck – Voyage to the Edge of the World (please prepare measures 1-16; 97-105. Annotated parts available above..)

SYMPHONIC BAND

All current Symphonic Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble. 

Required Etudes: Etude 1, Etude 2

Scales:

  • Concert F Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)
  • Concert Db Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)

WIND SYMPHONY

All current Wind Symphony students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Repertoire:

Students are strongly recommended to prepare these marked excerpts from the 2020-21 ILMEA etudes.

OR

If that is not feasible, students may also choose from one of the following solos. Please submit two contrasting 30-60 second excerpts from the piece in lieu of the ILMEA etudes.

  • W. A. Mozart – Any Concerto, first or last movement
  • Glazunov – Reverie 
  • C. Saint-Saens – Morceau de Concert
  • F. Strauss – Concerto
  • F. Strauss –Nocturno
  • R. Strauss – Concerto No. 1
  • Students may also present an alternate solo of comparable difficulty. 

Scales: ILMEA Scale Sheet – Lines 5 – 12 (scroll for your instrument)

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Students auditioning for Wind Symphony may also audition for the Merit Philharmonic. Students will need to sign up for two audition time slots in order to audition for Merit Philharmonic. Students MUST audition for and be accepted into Wind Symphony in order to be considered for Merit Philharmonic.

OBOE

Oboe audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

CONCERT BAND

New 20/21: All current Concert Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes: Etudes (2) [Revised 3/10/2020]

Scales:

  • Concert Eb Major (1 octave, up and down)
  • Chromatic (1 octave, up and down, starting on Concert Bb)

Seating Excerpt: Neeck – Voyage to the Edge of the World (please prepare 27-34; 97-113. Annotated parts will be available at a later date.)

SYMPHONIC BAND

All current Symphonic Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes: Etudes 1 & 2

Scales:

  • Concert F Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)
  • Concert Db Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)

WIND SYMPHONY

All current Wind Symphony students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Repertoire:

Students are strongly recommended to prepare these marked excerpts from the 2020-21 ILMEA etudes.

OR

If this is not feasible, students may also choose from one of the following solos. Please submit two contrasting 30-60 second excerpts from the piece in lieu of the ILMEA etudes.

  • W. A. Mozart – Movement 1 or 3 from Concerto for Oboe (K 314)
  • B. Britten – Movement of your choice from Six Metamorphoses after Ovid
  • P. Hindemith – Movement 1 from Sonata for Oboe
  • F. J. Haydn – Movement 1 from Concerto for Oboe
  • W. A. Mozart – Movement 1 from Oboe Quartet (K 370)
  • Students may also present an alternate solo of comparable difficulty. 

Scales: ILMEA Scale Sheet – Lines 5 – 12 (scroll for your instrument)

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Students auditioning for Wind Symphony may also audition for the Merit Philharmonic. Students will need to sign up for two audition time slots in order to audition for Merit Philharmonic. Students MUST audition for and be accepted into Wind Symphony in order to be considered for Merit Philharmonic.

PERCUSSION

Percussion audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any updates to your requirements.

 

All listed rudiments contain links to Vic Firth videos breaking down the rudiment. Please study the videos carefully to make sure you are clear on the expected technique for these rudiments. They do not need to be played using traditional grip.

CONCERT BAND

New 20/21: All current Concert Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etude: Etude (SD Only) [Revised 3/10/2020]

Rudiments:

    • Buzz Roll 3 Ways:
      • forte dynamic only
      • piano dynamic only
      • piano to forte then back to piano
    • Paradiddle (play as 16th notes, minimum tempo quarter = 90 bpm)
    • Flam Tap (slow to fast) (play as 16th notes, minimum fastest tempo quarter = 60 bpm)

Seating Excerpt: Neeck – Voyage to the Edge of the World (Percussion 1 – Snare Drum part, excerpted part only)

SYMPHONIC BAND

All current Symphonic Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes:  Etude 2 (snare), *NEW*: Pride of Oklahoma from NARD Book

Rudiments:

    • Buzz Roll 3 Ways:
      • forte dynamic only
      • piano dynamic only
      • piano to forte then back to piano
    • Double Stroke Roll 3 Ways:
      • forte dynamic only
      • piano dynamic only
      • piano to forte then back to piano
    • Paradiddle (play as 16th notes, minimum tempo quarter = 120 bpm)
    • Flam Tap (slow to fast) (play as 16th notes, minimum fastest tempo quarter = 90 bpm)

WIND SYMPHONY

All current Wind Symphony students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes:

2020-21 ILMEA Snare Drum Etude (excerpt only)

*NEW*: Podemski Etude No. 29 (first six lines only)

  • First time with audible metronome quarter equals 120
  • Second time same tempo without metronome

*NEW*: Podemski Etude No. 30 (last 5 lines only)

  • First time with audible metronome quarter equals 120
  • Second time same tempo without metronome

Rudiments:

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Students auditioning for Wind Symphony may also audition for the Merit Philharmonic. Students will need to sign up for two audition time slots in order to audition for Merit Philharmonic. Students MUST audition for and be accepted into Wind Symphony in order to be considered for Merit Philharmonic.

SAXOPHONE

Saxophone audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

CONCERT BAND

New 20/21: All current Concert Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.

Required Etudes: Etudes (2) [Revised 3/10/2020]

Scales:

  • Concert Eb Major (1 octave, up and down)
  • Chromatic (1 octave, up and down, starting on Concert Bb)

Seating Excerpt: 

SYMPHONIC BAND

All current Symphonic Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.

Required Etudes:  Etudes 1 & 2

Scales:

  • Concert F Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)
  • Concert Db Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)

WIND SYMPHONY

All current Wind Symphony students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Repertoire:

Students are strongly recommended to prepare these marked excerpts from the 2020-21 ILMEA etudes.

OR

If this is not feasible, students may also choose from one of the following solos. Please submit two contrasting 30-60 second excerpts from the piece in lieu of the ILMEA etudes.

  • Alto Saxophone 
      • Eugene Bozza – Aria 
      • John Eccles – Sonata 
      • Jeanine Rueff – Chanson et Passepied 
      • Robert Schumann – Three Romances 
      • Andre Jolivet – Fantasie-Impromptu 
      • Bernhard Heiden – Sonata 
      • Paule Maurice – Tableaux de Provence 
      • Alexandre Glazunov – Concerto 
      • Students may also present an alternate solo of comparable difficulty.
  • Tenor Saxophone 
      • Claude Debussy – Beaux Soir  
      • Morton Gould – Diversions  
      • Walter Hartley – Poem  
      • Heitor Villa-Lobos – Fantasia  
      • Denis Bedard – Fantasie  
      • Students may also present an alternate solo of comparable difficulty. 

Scales: ILMEA Scale Sheet – Lines 5-12 (scroll for your instrument)

TROMBONE

Trombone audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

CONCERT BAND

New 20/21: All current Concert Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes: Etudes (2) [Revised 3/10/2020]

Scales:

  • Concert Eb Major (1 octave, up and down)
  • Chromatic (1 octave, up and down, starting on Concert Bb)

Seating Excerpt: Neeck – Voyage to the Edge of the World (please prepare measures 128-147. Annotated parts available above.)

SYMPHONIC BAND

All current Symphonic Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes:

Scales:

  • Concert F Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)
  • Concert Db Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)

WIND SYMPHONY

All current Wind Symphony students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Repertoire:

Students are strongly recommended to prepare these marked excerpts from the 2020-21 ILMEA etudes.

OR

If that is not feasible, students may also choose from one of the following solos. Please submit two contrasting 30-60 second excerpts from the piece in lieu of the ILMEA etudes.

  • Tenor Trombone 
      • Guilmant – Morceau Symphonique  
      • L.E.Larsson – Concertino    
      • L. Grondahl- Concerto for Trombone and Orchestra   
      • Students may also present an alternate solo of comparable difficulty. 
  • Bass Trombone 
      • J.E.Galliard Sonata No. 1 from Six Sonatas  
      • Lebedev – Concerto No. 1  J. 
      • E. Sachse- Bass Trombone Concerto  
      • Students may also present an alternate solo of comparable difficulty. 

Scales: ILMEA Scale Sheet  – Lines 5 – 12 (scroll for your instrument)

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Students auditioning for Wind Symphony may also audition for the Merit Philharmonic. Students will need to sign up for two audition time slots in order to audition for Merit Philharmonic. Students MUST audition for and be accepted into Wind Symphony in order to be considered for Merit Philharmonic.

TRUMPET

Trumpet audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

CONCERT BAND

New 20/21: All current Concert Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes: Etudes (2) [Revised 3/10/2020]

Scales:

  • Concert Eb Major (1 octave, up and down)
  • Chromatic (1 octave, up and down, starting on Concert Bb)

Seating Excerpt: Neeck – Voyage to the Edge of the World  (please prepare measures 105-121; 136-143. Annotated parts available now.)

SYMPHONIC BAND

All current Symphonic Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes: Etude

Scales: 

  • Concert F Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)
  • Concert Db Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)

WIND SYMPHONY

All current Wind Symphony students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Repertoire: Students should prepare these marked excerpts from the 2020-21 ILMEA etudes.

Scales: ILMEA Scale Sheet – Lines 5 – 12  (scroll for your instruments)

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Students auditioning for Wind Symphony may also audition for the Merit Philharmonic. Students will need to sign up for two audition time slots in order to audition for Merit Philharmonic. Students MUST audition for and be accepted into Wind Symphony in order to be considered for Merit Philharmonic.

TUBA

Tuba audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes to your requirements.

CONCERT BAND

New 20/21: All current Concert Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes: Etudes (2) [Revised 3/10/2020]

Scales:

  • Concert Eb Major (1 octave, up and down)
  • Chromatic (1 octave, up and down, starting on Concert Bb)

Seating Excerpt: Neeck – Voyage to the Edge of the World (please prepare measures 128-147. Annotated parts available now.)

SYMPHONIC BAND

All current Symphonic Band students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Required Etudes:  Etudes

Scales:

  • Concert F Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)
  • Concert Db Major (as many octaves as you are able, up and down)

WIND SYMPHONY

All current Wind Symphony students MUST re-audition to keep their spot in this ensemble.  

Repertoire:

Students are strongly recommended to prepare these marked excerpts from the 2020-21 ILMEA etudes.

OR

If that is not feasible, students may also choose from one of the following solos. Please submit two contrasting 30-60 second excerpts from the piece in lieu of the ILMEA etudes.

  • V. Williams – Concerto For Tuba
  • E. Gregson – Tuba Concerto
  • P. Hindemith – Sonate
  • M. Ellerby – Concerto for Tuba
  • D. Haddad – Suite for Tuba
  • V. Persichetti – Serenade No. 12
  • M. Arnold – Fantasy
  • A. Capuzzi – Andante and Rondo 
  • Students may also present an alternate solo of comparable difficulty. 

Scales: ILMEA Scale Sheet  – Lines 5 – 12 (scroll for your instrument)

MERIT PHILHARMONIC

Students auditioning for Wind Symphony may also audition for the Merit Philharmonic. Students will need to sign up for two audition time slots in order to audition for Merit Philharmonic. Students MUST audition for and be accepted into Wind Symphony in order to be considered for Merit Philharmonic.

JAZZ (INSTRUMENTAL)

JAZZ BASS

Jazz bass audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes to your requirements.

 

Scales: F Major & Bb Major, 2 octaves, in eighth notes at ♩= 60

Repertoire:

Bassists should record themselves playing along with the accompaniment tracks provided. Please play “Whims of Chambers” (a 12-Bar Blues in F) and “There Is No Greater Love” (in Bb). 

“Whims of Chambers” (12-Bar Blues in F) 

Whims of Chambers music PDF

 

The play-along track includes three choruses

of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Chorus 2: Walking Bass Line 
  • Chorus 3: Improvised Solo 

“There Is No Greater Love” 

No Greater Love music PDF 

The play-along track includes two choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Walking Bass Line 
  • Chorus 2: Improvised Solo 

JAZZ DRUM-SET

Jazz drumset audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

Style: 

Please demonstrate 16 measures of Bossa Nova groove (in 4/4 time) at ♩= 130 

Repertoire: 

Drummers should record themselves playing along with the accompaniment tracks provided. Please play “Whims of Chambers” (a 12-Bar Blues in F) and “There Is No Greater Love” (in Bb). 

“Whims of Chambers” (12-Bar Blues in F) 

“Whims of Chambers” music PDF

The play-along track includes three choruses of accompaniment, (piano and bass).  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Half Time Swing Feel 
  • Chorus 2: ‘Walking’ Swing Feel 
  • Chorus 3: Improvised Solo 

 “There Is No Greater Love” 

“There Is No Greater Love” music PDF

The play-along track includes two choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Half Time Swing Feel on AA, ‘Walking’ Feel on the Bridge (B), Half Time Swing on last A 
  • Chorus 2: ‘Walking’ Swing Feel AABA 

JAZZ GUITAR

Jazz guitar audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19.  Please check below for nay changes in your requirements.

Scales: A Major & Eb Major, 2 octaves, in eighth notes at ♩= 70

Repertoire:

Guitarists should record themselves playing along with the accompaniment tracks provided. Please play “Whims of Chambers” (a 12-Bar Blues in F) and “There Is No Greater Love” (in Bb). 

“Whims of Chambers” (12-Bar Blues in F) 

“Whims of Chambers” music PDF

The play-along track includes three choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Chorus 2: Comping  
  • Chorus 3: Improvised Solo 

“There Is No Greater Love” 

“There Is No Greater Love” music PDF

The play-along track includes two choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Chorus 2: Improvised Solo 

JAZZ PIANO

Jazz piano audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

Scales: D Major & Bb Major, 2 octaves hands together, in eighth notes at ♩= 70

Repertoire:

Pianists should record themselves playing along with the accompaniment tracks provided. Please play “Whims of Chambers” (a 12-Bar Blues in F) and “There Is No Greater Love” (in Bb). 

“Whims of Chambers” (12-Bar Blues in F) 

“Whims of Chambers” music PDF

The play-along track includes three choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Chorus 2: Comping  
  • Chorus 3: Improvised Solo 

“There Is No Greater Love” 

“There Is No Greater Love” music PDF

The play-along track includes two choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Chorus 2: Improvised Solo 

JAZZ SAXOPHONE

Jazz saxophone audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes to your requirements.

Students may audition on alto or tenor saxophone. 

Scales: 

  • Alto/Bari Saxophone: F Major & Gb Major, 2 octaves, in eighth notes at ♩= 70 
  • Tenor Saxophone: C Major & Db Major, 2 octaves, in eighth notes at ♩= 70 

Repertoire: 

Saxophone players should record themselves playing along with the accompaniment tracks provided. Please play “Whims of Chambers” (a 12-Bar Blues in F) and “There Is No Greater Love” (in Bb). 

“Whims of Chambers” (12-Bar Blues in F) 

The play-along track includes three choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Choruses 2 & 3: Improvised Solo 

“There Is No Greater Love” 

The play-along track includes two choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Chorus 2: Improvised Solo 

JAZZ TROMBONE

Jazz trombone audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes to your requirements.

Scales: Eb Major & G Major, 1 octave, in eighth notes at ♩= 70

Repertoire:

Trombonists should record themselves playing along with the accompaniment tracks provided. Please play “Whims of Chambers” (a 12-Bar Blues in F) and “There Is No Greater Love” (in Bb). 

“Whims of Chambers” (12-Bar Blues in F) 

“Whims of Chambers” music PDF

The play-along track includes three choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Choruses 2 & 3: Improvised Solo 

“There Is No Greater Love” 

“There Is No Greater Love” music PDF

The play-along track includes two choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Chorus 2: Improvised Solo 

JAZZ TRUMPET

Jazz trumpet audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

Scales: D Major & F Major, 1 octave, in eighth notes at ♩= 70

Repertoire:

Trumpet players should record themselves playing along with the accompaniment tracks provided. Please play “Whims of Chambers” (a 12-Bar Blues in F) and “There Is No Greater Love” (in Bb). 

“Whims of Chambers” (12-Bar Blues in F) 

“Whims of Chambers” music PDF

The play-along track includes three choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Choruses 2 & 3: Improvised Solo 

“There Is No Greater Love” 

“There Is No Greater Love” music PDF

The play-along track includes two choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Chorus 2: Improvised Solo 

JAZZ VIBRAPHONE

Jazz vibraphone audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes to your requirements.

Scales: Ab Major & D Major, 2 octave, in eighth notes at ♩= 70

Repertoire:

Vibraphonists should record themselves playing along with the accompaniment tracks provided. Please play “Whims of Chambers” (a 12-Bar Blues in F) and “There Is No Greater Love” (in Bb). 

“Whims of Chambers” (12-Bar Blues in F) 

“Whims of Chambers” music PDF

The play-along track includes three choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Chorus 2: Comping  
  • Chorus 3: Improvised Solo 

“There Is No Greater Love” 

“There Is No Greater Love” music PDF

The play-along track includes two choruses of accompaniment.  Please perform using the following format: 

  • Chorus 1: Melody 
  • Chorus 2: Improvised Solo 

PIANO

PIANO

Piano audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please see below for audition requirements and updated deadlines.

 

RETURNING STUDENTS (Currently enrolled in the 2019-2020 Conservatory Piano Division) 

 Current Conservatory pianists should prepare and submit videos of the following: 

  • One solo piece from the suggested repertoire list below or piece of similar level
  • The age appropriate scales listed below 
  • Piano duet repertoire (now available).  You must learn both the primo and secundo parts. 

Video auditions must be submitted through the Video Submission Form no later than May 1st.  

 

NEW STUDENTS 

Students interested in the piano program must prepare and submit a video audition of the requirements listed below for your appropriate age. Video auditions must be submitted through the Video Submission Form no later than May 1st.  

 

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS AGES 9-13

1. Prepare two pieces from different historical periods listed below. One of the pieces must be from the Baroque or Classical period.   

  • Baroque – a two-part invention by J. S. Bach (except Invention no.1 in C major) or polyphonic piece of similar difficulty. 
  • Classical – a fast movement from a sonata by Haydn, Mozart or Beethoven similar to the level of the sonatas listed below: 
    • Haydn Sonata in C major, Hob. XVI:35, mov 1 or 3 
    • Mozart Sonata in C major, K. 545, mov 1 
    • Beethoven Sonata in G major, Op. 49 No 2, mov 1 
    • or polyphonic piece of similar difficulty 
  • Romantic – a composition from the list below or another piece of similar level. 
    • Chopin – Mazurka in A minor, Op.67 no.4 
    • Tchaikovsky – March or April from ” The Seasons” 
    • Grieg – from Lyrics pieces: Elegie Op.38, or Butterfly from Op. 43 
  • 20th / 21st century– a composition from the list below or another piece of similar level.  
    • Shostakovich – Fantastic Dance No. 1 from Three Fantastic Dances
    • Prokofiev –Tarantella fromMusic for Children, Op.65 
    • Barton- Evening in the Country 

2. Scales– In sixteenth notes, metronome marking quarter note = 80

  • Bb Major
  • F minor

3. Piano duet UPDATED 4.7.20–Please select ONE duet to prepare, and prepare both the primo and secundo parts. 

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS AGES 14-18

1. Prepare two pieces from different historical periods listed below. One of the pieces must be from the Baroque or Classical period. 

  • Baroque  – a three–part invention or prelude and fugue from the Well-Tempered Clavier by J. S. Bach (except Prelude and Fugue in C major, WTC vol. 1, BWV 846) 
  • Classical – a fast movement from a sonata by Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven similar to the level of the sonatas listed below (except Haydn Hob: XVI 35, Mozart K.545, Beethoven Op.49 No. 2) 
    • Beethoven Sonata No. 1in F minor, Op. 2 No. 1, mov I or IV 
    • Beethoven Sonata No. 10 in G major,  Op. 14 No. 2, mov I or III 
  • Romantic – any composition by Chopin, Liszt, Schumann, Brahms, Rachmaninov or other Romantic composer similar to the level of: 
    • Chopin Noctune in E minor, Op. 72 No. 1 
  • 20th/21st century – a composition from the list below or another piece of similar level. 
    • Shostakovich – any Prelude and Fugue
    • Copland – Cat and Mouse
    • Prokofiev – Montaque and Capulets, Op. 75 No. 6
    • Barber – Excursions, Op. 20 No.1

2. Scales- in sixteenth notes, metronome marking quarter note = 104

  • Ab Major
  • Eb minor

3. Piano duet UPDATED 4.7.20-Please select ONE duet to prepare, and prepare both the primo and secundo parts.

VOICE

VOICE

Voice audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

*Please note that students must be at least 10 years of age to register online for a Conservatory audition. If your student does not meet the age minimum but is still interested in auditioning, please contact Merit’s Voice Program Director, Melanie Lunardi at mlunardi@meritmusic.org  

 

VOICE 

Students who successfully audition into the Voice program will be placed in a Merit choral ensemble. 

Please prepare the following: 

Repertoire: Auditioning voice students must present two pieces that follow the guidelines below: 

  1. Art song – English or foreign language 
  1. American Songbook/Jazz 
  1. Musical Theatre 
  1. Pop/Contemporary 
  1. Selected part from a choral piece 

(Note: All selections must be memorized, and may be performed with recorded accompaniment or a cappella. If you are concerned about performing your selection(s) a cappella and would like to arrange a Merit recorded accompanist track, please contact Merit’s Voice Program Director, Melanie Lunardi at mlunardi@meritmusic.org no later than Saturday, April 18th.) 

Scales: Major scale in any key.  Please clearly state which scale is to be performed in your video submission.(Scales can be sung on solfege or on a neutral syllable.) 

 Areas of Musical Interest: To conclude your video audition submission, please tell us a lttle bit about yourself and your musical journey! Our audition panel would like to know how long you have been singing, what you love most about it, and what styles and genres you are most interested in studying here at Merit (Classical, Musical Theater, Jazz, Pop, Folks, Blues, etc.)

RETURNING VOICE STUDENTS 

All Voice students must re-audition each year to maintain their place in the program. 

Please prepare the following: 

Repertoire: One solo piece in a style that highlights your technique and artisty (strong melody, rhythmic changes etc.)

(Note: All selections must be memorized, and may be performed with recorded accompaniment or a cappella. If you are concerned about performing your selection(s) a cappella and would like to arrange a Merit recorded accompanist track, please contact Merit’s Voice Program Director, Melanie Lunardi at mlunardi@meritmusic.org no later than Saturday, April 18th.) 

Areas of Musical Interest: To conclude your video audition submission, please tell us a little bit about your time at Merit (so far!). Our audition panel would like to hear about what you found most challenging, what you found most rewarding, and what musical styles and genres you would be interested in studying at Merit next year.

  

Art song examples 

Let Us Dance, Let Us Sing, Purcell
The Mermaid’s Song, Haydn
The Crucifixion, Barber
Vittoria, mio core, Carissimi
Caro mio ben, Giordani
Das Veilchen, Mozart
Rastlose Liebe, Schubert 

 

American Songbook examples 

Fly Me to the Moon, Bart Howard
Misty, Erroll Garner
All of Me, Marks & Simon
Summertime, George Gershwin
What a Difference a Day Makes, Adams & Grever
Our Love is Here to Stay, Ira and George Gershwin
Blue Skies, Irving Berlin 

 

Blues Examples 

Route 66, Bobby Troup
Ain’t Nobody’s Business if I Do, Grainger and Robbins
Stormy Monday, T-bone Walker
Further On Up the Road, Jo Medwick
Blue Monk, Thelonius Monk 

Contemporary/Pop Examples
Writings on the Wall, Sam Smith
Lose You to Love Me, Selena Gomez
A Song for You, Leon Russell
Someone Like You, Adele

GUITAR

JUNIOR DIVISION

Guitar audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes in your requirements.

Repertoire: Two contrasting solo pieces 

(Students may reference the linked examples for indication of appropriate level) 

Scales: Two Scales 

(Two octaves; see linked example Scales must be memorized) 

SENIOR DIVISION

Guitar audition requirements have been updated due to COVID-19. Please check below for any changes to your requirements.

Repertoire: Two contrasting solo pieces 

(Students may reference the linked examples for indication of appropriate level) 

Scales: Two Scales 

(Two octaves; see linked examples. Scales must be memorized)