AVU Audition Repertoire

All applicants are expected to demonstrate technical skill, musicality, and preparation through auditions. Some programs include sightreading or figured bass exercises to assess musicianship. Applicants should bring three copies of all music for the audition panel.

Piano

One Baroque Piece (e.g., Bach Prelude & Fugue)
One Classical Sonata Movement (e.g., Mozart or Beethoven)
One Romantic or 20th-Century Piece
Scales & Arpeggios as requested by the panel

Organ

One Baroque Prelude or Fugue (e.g., Bach)
One Romantic Work (e.g., Franck, Guilmant)
Sightreading: Hymn or Chorale provided at audition
Figured Bass: Prepare one realization; may include 5-minute sightreading

Harpsichord

Two Contrasting Baroque Pieces (e.g., Bach, Couperin, Scarlatti)
Technical Exercises or Ornamentation Demonstration
Prepared Figured Bass Realization (e.g., Bach Violin Sonatas, Handel Overture)
Figured Bass Sightreading: 5-minute preparation allowed

Voice

One Classical Aria (Italian, German, or French)
One Art Song (Lieder, Mélodie, or English Song)
Prepared Scales/Vocal Exercises

Musicology Applicants

Written Sample: Recent analytical or research paper
Oral Discussion: Knowledge of music history and literature

Instrumental Conducting

Score Study: Prepare a short orchestral score for sight-reading
Rehearsal Technique: Demonstrate gestures and conducting clarity
Optional Performance: Conduct an excerpt from memory

FAQ:

Q: Should I bring my own accompanist?
A: An accompanist is provided for most auditions.

Q: Can I submit a video audition?
A: Yes, video auditions are accepted for out-of-state or international applicants.

Q: Are sightreading or figured bass exercises required?
A: Only for Organ and Harpsichord applicants.

Q: How many copies of music should I bring?
A: Three copies for the audition panel are recommended.