Master of Music: Collaborative Piano

Degree Requirements

Graduate (MM & DMA)

Program of Study – 18 units, 2 Years 

Courses outside of the Bienen School of Music do not count toward the minimum 18 units required for the degree.

Applied Studies – 6.5 units 

  • PIANO 461 Applied Piano, 6 units
  • PIANO Advanced Piano Skills, 0.5 units

Studio Class – 0 units, 6 registrations required 

Students should select the section appropriate to their applied lessons professor.

Master of Music: Conducting - Wind

Degree Requirements

Graduate (MM & DMA)

Program of Study – 18 units, 2 Years 

Courses outside of the Bienen School of Music do not count toward the minimum 18 units required for the degree. 

 

Applied Studies – 6 units 

Students should select the section appropriate to their instrument.

  • CONDUCT 440 Seminar in Conducting

 

Major Ensemble – 3 units 

Master of Music: String Performance - Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass

Degree Requirements

Graduate (MM & DMA)

Program of Study — 18 units, 2 years

Courses outside of the Bienen School of Music do not count toward the minimum 18 units required for the degree. 

 

Applied Lessons – 6 units 

Students should select the course appropriate to their instrument. 

  • STRINGS 441 Applied Violin 
  • STRINGS 442 Applied Viola 
  • STRINGS 443 Applied Cello 
  • STRINGS 444 Applied Double Bass 

 

Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: Wind Performance

Prescreening required for all instruments; must be video format. Prescreening repertoire should be recorded with accompaniment. Repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. 

Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

Dates will be coordinated with applicants after prescreening results are sent. 

NOTE: The Bienen School will not be accepting DMA saxophone applications for the 2025-26 application cycle. 

For Prescreening:

Prescreening must contain 45 to 60 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 60 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level.  Selections should represent various styles and historical periods from the standard repertoire. The audition will last approximately 30 minutes. The applicant may perform selections used in the prescreening round, but may also present different repertoire. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance. Auditions will be accompanied.

Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: Wind Performance

Prescreening required for all instruments; must be video format. Prescreening repertoire should be recorded with accompaniment. Repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. 

Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

Dates will be coordinated with applicants after prescreening results are sent. 

NOTE: The Bienen School will not be accepting DMA saxophone applications for the 2025-26 application cycle. 

For Prescreening:

Prescreening must contain 45 to 60 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 60 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level.  Selections should represent various styles and historical periods from the standard repertoire. The audition will last approximately 30 minutes. The applicant may perform selections used in the prescreening round, but may also present different repertoire. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance. Auditions will be accompanied.

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Contact the Office of Music Admission and Financial Aid:
musiclife@northwestern.edu or 847-491-3141
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Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: Voice and Opera Performance

Prescreening required; must be video format with accompaniment. Submitted videos should be a full-length shot of the performer. Prescreening repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. 

The requirement of video prescreening will be adhered to strictly.

Fall 2026 Audition Date:

February 9 

For Prescreening:

Prescreening must contain 45 to 60 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 30 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level. Selections should represent various styles and historical periods from the standard repertoire. The audition will last approximately 15 minutes. The applicant should perform selections used in the prescreening, but can also bring additional repertoire. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance. Auditions will be accompanied.

Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: Voice and Opera Performance

Prescreening required; must be video format with accompaniment. Submitted videos should be a full-length shot of the performer. Prescreening repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. 

The requirement of video prescreening will be adhered to strictly.

Fall 2026 Audition Date:

February 9 

For Prescreening:

Prescreening must contain 45 to 60 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 30 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level. Selections should represent various styles and historical periods from the standard repertoire. The audition will last approximately 15 minutes. The applicant should perform selections used in the prescreening, but can also bring additional repertoire. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance. Auditions will be accompanied.

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Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: String Performance

Prescreening required for all instruments; must be video format. Prescreening repertoire should be recorded with accompaniment where applicable. Prescreening repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. 

Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

February 11 & 12 (viola only on February 11)

For Prescreening:

Prescreening must contain 45 to 60 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 60 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level.  Selections should represent various styles and historical periods from the standard repertoire. The audition will last approximately 20 minutes. The applicant should perform selections used in the prescreening, but can also bring additional repertoire. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance. Auditions will be accompanied. 

Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: String Performance

Prescreening required for all instruments; must be video format. Prescreening repertoire should be recorded with accompaniment where applicable. Prescreening repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. 

Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

February 11 & 12 (viola only on February 11)

For Prescreening:

Prescreening must contain 45 to 60 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 60 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level.  Selections should represent various styles and historical periods from the standard repertoire. The audition will last approximately 20 minutes. The applicant should perform selections used in the prescreening, but can also bring additional repertoire. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance. Auditions will be accompanied. 

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Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance

Prescreening required; must be video format. Prescreening repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. Movements within a single piece may also be divided into separate videos.  

Fall 2026 Audition Date: 

February 8

For Prescreening:

  • The applicant must submit their prescreening online, and it must contain 45 to 60 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. Repertoire can be divided out into separate videos if desired.
  • Respond to the following short essay questions (in the Graduate Application):
    • In what ways does Romantic music depart from the music of the Classical period, and in what ways does it represent continuity? 
    • What musical experience has had the most profound effect on you and why? 

If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 60 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level. Selections should represent various styles and historical periods. The audition will last approximately 30 minutes. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance.

Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts in Piano Performance

Prescreening required; must be video format. Prescreening repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. Movements within a single piece may also be divided into separate videos.  

Fall 2026 Audition Date: 

February 8

For Prescreening:

  • The applicant must submit their prescreening online, and it must contain 45 to 60 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. Repertoire can be divided out into separate videos if desired.
  • Respond to the following short essay questions (in the Graduate Application):
    • In what ways does Romantic music depart from the music of the Classical period, and in what ways does it represent continuity? 
    • What musical experience has had the most profound effect on you and why? 

If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 60 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level. Selections should represent various styles and historical periods. The audition will last approximately 30 minutes. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance.

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Contact the Office of Music Admission and Financial Aid:
musiclife@northwestern.edu or 847-491-3141
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Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: Percussion Performance

Prescreening required; must be video format. Prescreening repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. 

Fall 2026 Audition Date:

Dates will be coordinated with applicants after prescreening results are sent. 

For Prescreening:

Prescreening must contain 30 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 45 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level. Selections should represent various styles and historical periods from the standard repertoire. The audition will last approximately 30 minutes. The applicant should perform selections used in the prescreening, but can also bring additional repertoire. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance. 

Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: Percussion Performance

Prescreening required; must be video format. Prescreening repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. 

Fall 2026 Audition Date:

Dates will be coordinated with applicants after prescreening results are sent. 

For Prescreening:

Prescreening must contain 30 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 45 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level. Selections should represent various styles and historical periods from the standard repertoire. The audition will last approximately 30 minutes. The applicant should perform selections used in the prescreening, but can also bring additional repertoire. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance. 

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musiclife@northwestern.edu or 847-491-3141
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Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: Conducting (Choral, Orchestral and Wind)

Prescreening required; must be video format. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

Applicants must have completed a Master of Music degree in Conducting for application to the Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting. 

Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

Choral: TBD | Orchestral: February 19, 24, & 26 | Wind: TBD

For Prescreening:

•    Demonstrate conducting skills in both rehearsal and performance situations. Additional audio recordings of performances may be submitted, especially if the audio aspect of the video recording is not high quality.  

For Final Audition:

  •  Applicants invited to campus for a live audition will be informed of the scores to be prepared. Candidates will need to obtain and study the scores in preparation to conduct and rehearse all or any part of them. Scores may be marked any way the applicant wishes. All auditions will take place with one of the Bienen School of Music's major ensembles, and both rehearsal and performance conducting will be tested.
  • An interview with the conducting faculty will be scheduled to provide faculty with the opportunity to learn about the applicant’s goals, ambitions, and needs; assess the candidate’s ability to communicate and project their own personality; and evaluate the strength of the applicant’s motivation to pursue a graduate degree and subsequent career in conducting. Choral candidates should be prepared to sing a solo song, with provided accompanist, demonstrating range and stylistic flexibility, as well as read at sight and demonstrate their comfort with Italian, French, and German, as well as offer additional languages in which they are proficient.
  • Applicants will be given an entrance exam covering ear training, terms, score analysis, and knowledge of repertoire.
Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: Conducting (Choral, Orchestral and Wind)

Prescreening required; must be video format. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

Applicants must have completed a Master of Music degree in Conducting for application to the Doctor of Musical Arts in Conducting. 

Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

Choral: TBD | Orchestral: February 19, 24, & 26 | Wind: TBD

For Prescreening:

•    Demonstrate conducting skills in both rehearsal and performance situations. Additional audio recordings of performances may be submitted, especially if the audio aspect of the video recording is not high quality.  

For Final Audition:

  •  Applicants invited to campus for a live audition will be informed of the scores to be prepared. Candidates will need to obtain and study the scores in preparation to conduct and rehearse all or any part of them. Scores may be marked any way the applicant wishes. All auditions will take place with one of the Bienen School of Music's major ensembles, and both rehearsal and performance conducting will be tested.
  • An interview with the conducting faculty will be scheduled to provide faculty with the opportunity to learn about the applicant’s goals, ambitions, and needs; assess the candidate’s ability to communicate and project their own personality; and evaluate the strength of the applicant’s motivation to pursue a graduate degree and subsequent career in conducting. Choral candidates should be prepared to sing a solo song, with provided accompanist, demonstrating range and stylistic flexibility, as well as read at sight and demonstrate their comfort with Italian, French, and German, as well as offer additional languages in which they are proficient.
  • Applicants will be given an entrance exam covering ear training, terms, score analysis, and knowledge of repertoire.
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Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: Brass Performance

Prescreening required for all instruments; must be video format. Prescreening repertoire should be recorded with accompaniment and can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. 

Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

Dates will be coordinated with applicants after prescreening results are sent. 

For Prescreening:

Prescreening must contain 45 to 60 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 60 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level.  Selections should represent various styles and historical periods from the standard repertoire. The audition will last approximately 30 minutes. The applicant should perform selections used in the prescreening, but can also bring additional repertoire. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance. Auditions will be accompanied.

Program Requirements

Doctor of Musical Arts: Brass Performance

Prescreening required for all instruments; must be video format. Prescreening repertoire should be recorded with accompaniment and can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. 

Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

Dates will be coordinated with applicants after prescreening results are sent. 

For Prescreening:

Prescreening must contain 45 to 60 minutes of music representing different styles and historical periods. If reviewed favorably, the applicant will be invited to a final audition round.

For Final Audition:

If invited to the final audition round, the applicant will perform for and interview with a music faculty jury. Candidates are expected to prepare 60 minutes of music appropriate for the doctoral level.  Selections should represent various styles and historical periods from the standard repertoire. The audition will last approximately 30 minutes. The applicant should perform selections used in the prescreening, but can also bring additional repertoire. Candidates will be required to submit their audition repertoire in advance. Auditions will be accompanied.

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Contact the Office of Music Admission and Financial Aid:
musiclife@northwestern.edu or 847-491-3141
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Program Requirements

Master of Music: Voice and Opera Performance

Prescreening required; must be video format with accompaniment. Submitted videos should be a full-length shot of the performer.

The requirement of video prescreening will be adhered to strictly. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

Auditions are accompanied; the Bienen School will provide a staff pianist. 

Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

February 6-7, 9, 13-14

Program Requirements

Master of Music: Voice and Opera Performance

Prescreening required; must be video format with accompaniment. Submitted videos should be a full-length shot of the performer.

The requirement of video prescreening will be adhered to strictly. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

Auditions are accompanied; the Bienen School will provide a staff pianist. 

Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

February 6-7, 9, 13-14

For Prescreening and Final Audition:

Applicants needn’t perform the same repertoire for both rounds of auditions provided all repertoire meets the requirements below.

Memorization is required.

Four selections, one in each:

  • Italian
  • French or German
  • English
  • Language of your choice

Songs may be from the art song repertoire or a combination of art songs and arias from opera/oratorio. No more than two selections may be arias. Arias must be performed in the original keys and languages. Music selected should represent a variety of styles. Musical theater repertoire is not acceptable for the prescreening or live audition rounds. 

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Program Requirements

Master of Music: Violin

Prescreening required; must be video format. Prescreening may or may not include accompaniment, at the discretion of the applicant.

If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

Auditions are unaccompanied.

Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

February 6-7, 13

    Program Requirements

    Master of Music: Violin

    Prescreening required; must be video format. Prescreening may or may not include accompaniment, at the discretion of the applicant.

    If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

    Auditions are unaccompanied.

    Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

    February 6-7, 13

      For Prescreening:

      Memorization is required.

      • One movement from a Bach sonata or partita
      • First movement of a standard concerto

      For Final Audition:

      Memorization is required.

      • Two contrasting movements from a Bach sonata or partita
      • A full standard concerto
      • A Paganini caprice
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      Program Requirements

      Master of Music: Viola

      Prescreening required; must be video format.

      Prescreening may be unaccompanied or accompanied by piano. Audition unaccompanied. Prescreening repertoire may be separated into different video files or you may upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

      Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

      February 12 & 14

        Program Requirements

        Master of Music: Viola

        Prescreening required; must be video format.

        Prescreening may be unaccompanied or accompanied by piano. Audition unaccompanied. Prescreening repertoire may be separated into different video files or you may upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

        February 12 & 14

          For Prescreening:

          • Two contrasting movements from any solo suite, sonata, or partita by Bach
          • One complete movement of a standard concerto, such as Bartók, Walton or Hindemith (or other)

          For Final Audition:

          • One complete movement of a standard concerto
          • The first movement of any major sonata
          • Two contrasting movements from any suite, sonata, or partita by Bach
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          Program Requirements

          Master of Music: Tuba

          Prescreening required; audio or video recordings are accepted. If submitting video prescreening, please position the video so that your embouchure is clearly visible.

          Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different files. It is also acceptable to upload a single file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

          Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

          TBD

            Program Requirements

            Master of Music: Tuba

            Prescreening required; audio or video recordings are accepted. If submitting video prescreening, please position the video so that your embouchure is clearly visible.

            Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different files. It is also acceptable to upload a single file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

            Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

            TBD

              For Prescreening and Final Audition:

              Please choose 6 excerpts from standard solo literature that display the following aspects of your playing. Selections can include orchestral, band, or chamber music repertoire or études.

              1. Lyrical playing
              2. Technical playing
              3. Loud dynamic
              4. Soft dynamic
              5. High register
              6. Low register 

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                Program Requirements

                Master of Music: Trumpet

                Prescreening required; must be video format. Video should be framed so that it is close enough to be able to see the applicant's face and embouchure. 

                Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                February 8-9

                  Program Requirements

                  Master of Music: Trumpet

                  Prescreening required; must be video format. Video should be framed so that it is close enough to be able to see the applicant's face and embouchure. 

                  Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                  Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                  February 8-9

                    For Prescreening:

                    • 1 étude of applicant’s choice from Charlier, Bitsch, or equivalent.
                    • 1 short standard solo (Honegger Intrada or equivalent) or first movement from a standard concerto or sonata of applicant’s choice (Haydn, Hummel, Tomasi, Jolivet, or equivalent).
                    • 2 contrasting standard orchestral excerpts:
                      • Choose contrasting works that will display your highest level of achievement musically and technically.

                    For Final Audition:

                    All repertoire required. No substitutions.

                    • 2 études of applicant’s choice from Charlier, Bitsch, or equivalent.
                    • 1 movement from a standard concerto or sonata of applicant’s choice.
                    • Honneger, Intrada 
                    • 4 contrasting standard orchestral excerpts
                    • 1 piccolo trumpet orchestral excerpt of J. S. Bach (Magnificat, Christmas Oratorio or B Minor Mass)
                    • Adolphus Hailstork Variations for Trumpet
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                    Program Requirements

                    Master of Music: Tenor Trombone

                    Prescreening required; must be video format. Video should be shot from left side so mouthpiece is clearly visible.

                    Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                    Fall 2026 Audition Dates: 

                    February 7 & 14

                    Program Requirements

                    Master of Music: Tenor Trombone

                    Prescreening required; must be video format. Video should be shot from left side so mouthpiece is clearly visible.

                    Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                    Fall 2026 Audition Dates: 

                    February 7 & 14

                    For Prescreening and Final Audition:

                    All repertoire required. No substitutions.

                    • Solo Selection: Martin, Ballade

                    Orchestral Excerpts:

                    • Berlioz, The Damnation of Faust  “Hungarian March” (second trombone)

                    • Mozart, Requiem “Tuba Mirum”

                    • Ravel, Boléro

                    • Saint-Saëns, Symphony No. 3

                    • Schumann, Symphony No. 3, fourth movement

                    • Wagner, Die Walküre “Ride of the Valkyries,” B Maj. section

                    • Strauss, Also sprach Zarathustra

                    • Rossini, Overture to William Tell

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                    Program Requirements

                    Master of Music: Saxophone

                    Prescreening required; must be video format. Prescreening may or may not include accompaniment at the discretion of the applicant.

                    If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                    Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                    February 6 & 13

                      Program Requirements

                      Master of Music: Saxophone

                      Prescreening required; must be video format. Prescreening may or may not include accompaniment at the discretion of the applicant.

                      If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                      Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                      February 6 & 13

                        For Prescreening:

                        • Spoken introduction which includes your name, current institution, teachers, and brief information about your background on the saxophone.
                        • Two contrasting études by Bozza, Lacour, Koechlin, Karg-Elert, Ferling, or other études of similar difficulty
                        • Two complete solo works of contrasting styles, including at least one work from the standard repertoire. 

                        For Final Audition:

                        • All major and harmonic minor scales, full range; major scales in 3rds; chromatic scale.
                        • Approximately 30 minutes of music that represents both a diversity of musical styles and your interests as an artist. At least one selection should be from the standard repertoire. Selections should represent both musical and technical accomplishment.
                        • Optional: If you have a background in jazz that you would like to demonstrate, you may present  jazz selections such as a transcription, jazz étude, and/or improvisation.
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                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Piano

                        Prescreening required; must be video format. Hands should be visible in video. Prescreening repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. Movements within a single piece may also be divided into separate videos.  

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 9-10, 14-15

                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Piano

                        Prescreening required; must be video format. Hands should be visible in video. Prescreening repertoire can be separated into different video files or uploaded in a single video file. Movements within a single piece may also be divided into separate videos.  

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 9-10, 14-15

                        For Prescreening:

                        Repertoire is required and must be memorized. Prescreening should total a minimum of 30 minutes. Include a list of significant repertoire studied with prescreening submission.

                        • Sonata-allegro movement from a classical sonata, preferably by Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, or Schubert
                        • Romantic work
                        • Optional: additional pieces of applicant’s choice

                        For Final Audition:

                        Repertoire is required and must be memorized. Selections do not have to be the same as the prescreening repertoire.

                        • A work by J.S. Bach
                        • A full classical sonata, preferably by Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, or Schubert
                        • Romantic work
                        • Impressionist or contemporary work
                        • Étude of virtuosity

                        A list of significant repertoire studied should be brought to your audition.

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                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Percussion

                        No prescreening round; audition unaccompanied.

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 7-8 & 15

                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Percussion

                        No prescreening round; audition unaccompanied.

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 7-8 & 15

                        For Final Audition:

                        The final audition should include selections for: snare drum, timpani, keyboard percussion, and tambourine, and MUST include both solo repertoire AND orchestral excerpts. Sight-reading is required at the final audition.

                        Snare Drum
                        •    Two contrasting orchestral excerpts from the standard repertoire
                        •    One orchestral snare drum étude
                        •    One rudimental snare drum étude by Pratt or Wilcoxin

                        Xylophone
                        •    Two orchestral excerpts from the standard repertoire

                        Timpani
                        •    Three orchestral excerpts from the standard repertoire

                        Marimba 
                        NOTE: Listed repertoire is not required; pieces of similar difficulty will be accepted.

                        • One 4-mallet piece in contemporary style

                        Suggested 4-mallet pieces:

                        • Sueyoshi, Mirage
                        • Schwantner, Velocities
                        • Stout,  Sedimental Structures
                        • Thomas, Merlin (2nd movement)
                        • Lansky, Three Moves (3rd movement: Slide)
                        • Miyoshi, Ripple

                        Tambourine
                        •    One orchestral excerpt from the standard repertoire

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                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Oboe

                        No prescreening round; audition unaccompanied.

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 7 & 14

                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Oboe

                        No prescreening round; audition unaccompanied.

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 7 & 14

                        For Final Audition:

                        Suggested Solo Selections:

                        • Concerto by Cimarosa, Marcello, Handel, Mozart, or Strauss
                        • Sonata by Telemann, Handel, Saint-Saëns, or Hindemith
                        • Schumann, Three Romances
                        • Britten, Six Metamorphoses after Ovid

                        In addition: Two contrasting études by Barret or Ferling and standard orchestral excerpts of the applicant’s choice

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                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Musicology

                        For Application:

                        Applicants must submit a lengthy sample of their writing on music, preferably a recent paper that shows the ability to conduct research inclusive of bibliography. This must be submitted online with the graduate application by December 1.

                        Other Degrees

                        Bachelor of Music: Musicology
                        PhD in Music: Musicology

                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Musicology

                        For Application:

                        Applicants must submit a lengthy sample of their writing on music, preferably a recent paper that shows the ability to conduct research inclusive of bibliography. This must be submitted online with the graduate application by December 1.

                        Other Degrees

                        Bachelor of Music: Musicology
                        PhD in Music: Musicology

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                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Music Theory

                        For Application:

                        Applicants must submit evidence of analytical and research ability in the form of one or more papers prepared for an undergraduate course or specifically for the admission committee. Recordings and/or scores of compositions may also be submitted if appropriate. Must be submitted online with the graduate application by December 1. 

                        Other Degrees

                        Bachelor of Music: Music Theory
                        PhD in Music: Music Theory and Cognition

                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Music Theory

                        For Application:

                        Applicants must submit evidence of analytical and research ability in the form of one or more papers prepared for an undergraduate course or specifically for the admission committee. Recordings and/or scores of compositions may also be submitted if appropriate. Must be submitted online with the graduate application by December 1. 

                        Other Degrees

                        Bachelor of Music: Music Theory
                        PhD in Music: Music Theory and Cognition

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                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Music Education (2-year w/ certification)

                        Prescreening materials required.

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 10 (in person) & 11 (Zoom)

                        For Prescreening:

                        • Submit a paper as evidence of your scholarly writing ability.
                        • Submit a video recording of a performance on your principal instrument. This video should be of a prepared piece and should be no longer than 5 minutes. Recording with accompaniment is optional. 
                        • If you have one, please submit a video recording online that demonstrates your teaching ability and musicianship.* This may include private lesson teaching or teaching/rehearsal segments videoed as part of a college course. You may want to submit a sample of several representative clips of your teaching, totaling no more than 30 minutes. During at least one of these teaching episodes, demonstrate your musicianship by using your primary instrument or voice to model for students. Attach a brief description of the setting and your goals for each teaching episode.

                        *If you do not have a video of your teaching, please describe in an essay your past opportunities to serve in a teaching role and why you have chosen to pursue certification for teaching at this point.

                        • A résumé reflecting your professional accomplishments to date is required as part of your online application.
                        • Two letters of recommendation in your online application are required. We recommend letters from applied teachers, faculty advisors, and any other teaching professionals who have directly observed your work in a teaching context either in or out of school.

                        If your prescreening materials are reviewed favorably, you will be contacted by the Office of Music Admission to set up a final audition with the Music Education faculty. 

                        Final Audition:

                        The audition will involve three components:

                        • Aural skills diagnostic encompassing singing simple melodies at sight and playing music by ear
                        • Keyboard diagnostic – sight-read simple piano excerpts
                        • An interview consisting of questions relevant to your interests in music teaching and learning among children and adolescents

                        Other Degrees

                        Master of Music: Music Education (1 year)
                        Bachelor of Music: Music Education

                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Music Education (2-year w/ certification)

                        Prescreening materials required.

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 10 (in person) & 11 (Zoom)

                        For Prescreening:

                        • Submit a paper as evidence of your scholarly writing ability.
                        • Submit a video recording of a performance on your principal instrument. This video should be of a prepared piece and should be no longer than 5 minutes. Recording with accompaniment is optional. 
                        • If you have one, please submit a video recording online that demonstrates your teaching ability and musicianship.* This may include private lesson teaching or teaching/rehearsal segments videoed as part of a college course. You may want to submit a sample of several representative clips of your teaching, totaling no more than 30 minutes. During at least one of these teaching episodes, demonstrate your musicianship by using your primary instrument or voice to model for students. Attach a brief description of the setting and your goals for each teaching episode.

                        *If you do not have a video of your teaching, please describe in an essay your past opportunities to serve in a teaching role and why you have chosen to pursue certification for teaching at this point.

                        • A résumé reflecting your professional accomplishments to date is required as part of your online application.
                        • Two letters of recommendation in your online application are required. We recommend letters from applied teachers, faculty advisors, and any other teaching professionals who have directly observed your work in a teaching context either in or out of school.

                        If your prescreening materials are reviewed favorably, you will be contacted by the Office of Music Admission to set up a final audition with the Music Education faculty. 

                        Final Audition:

                        The audition will involve three components:

                        • Aural skills diagnostic encompassing singing simple melodies at sight and playing music by ear
                        • Keyboard diagnostic – sight-read simple piano excerpts
                        • An interview consisting of questions relevant to your interests in music teaching and learning among children and adolescents

                        Other Degrees

                        Master of Music: Music Education (1 year)
                        Bachelor of Music: Music Education

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                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Music Education (1 year)

                        Prescreening materials required.

                        Fall 2026 Interview Dates:

                        February 10 (in person) & 11 (Zoom)

                        For Prescreening:

                      • A résumé in your online application is required, and it should reflect your professional accomplishments to date, including music teacher certification (or the equivalent) and evidence of teaching experience.
                      • Submit a video recording that demonstrates your teaching ability and musicianship. You may want to submit a sample of several representative clips of your teaching, totaling no more than 30 minutes. During at least one of these teaching episodes, demonstrate your musicianship by using your primary instrument or voice to model for students. This musical example should be lengthy and demonstrate the quality of your musicianship. Attach a brief description of the setting and your goals for each teaching episode.
                      • Two letters of recommendation in your online application are required. We recommend letters from school principals, superintendents, music supervisors, advisors, or other teaching professionals who have directly observed your work with students.
                      • As evidence of your scholarly writing ability, write an essay on one of the following topics and answer thoroughly in three to four double-spaced pages:
                        1. What characteristic of today’s music education programs do you find to be the most compelling and successful? Where do you see the greatest need for change or innovation? Please be specific and defend your choices in terms of the larger curricular goals of providing access and opportunity for students at all levels.
                        2. As a current or future music educator, what long-range goals do you have for students in your music program or classes? What should a student in your program know and be able to do before they move to the next level? How do the goals differ for students with different levels of engagement in music? Support each of your goals with rationale for your choices.
                        3. What is the purpose of research in music education? Describe one area of research that is of interest to you. Describe the research and the reasons for your interest in it. How might this research change the way we teach music or think about music teaching and learning?

                        If your prescreening materials are reviewed favorably, you will be contacted by the Office of Music Admission to set up an interview with a member of the Music Education faculty. A final interview is required.

                        Other Degrees

                        Master of Music: Music Education (2 year w/certification)
                        Bachelor of Music: Music Education

                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Music Education (1 year)

                        Prescreening materials required.

                        Fall 2026 Interview Dates:

                        February 10 (in person) & 11 (Zoom)

                        For Prescreening:

                      • A résumé in your online application is required, and it should reflect your professional accomplishments to date, including music teacher certification (or the equivalent) and evidence of teaching experience.
                      • Submit a video recording that demonstrates your teaching ability and musicianship. You may want to submit a sample of several representative clips of your teaching, totaling no more than 30 minutes. During at least one of these teaching episodes, demonstrate your musicianship by using your primary instrument or voice to model for students. This musical example should be lengthy and demonstrate the quality of your musicianship. Attach a brief description of the setting and your goals for each teaching episode.
                      • Two letters of recommendation in your online application are required. We recommend letters from school principals, superintendents, music supervisors, advisors, or other teaching professionals who have directly observed your work with students.
                      • As evidence of your scholarly writing ability, write an essay on one of the following topics and answer thoroughly in three to four double-spaced pages:
                        1. What characteristic of today’s music education programs do you find to be the most compelling and successful? Where do you see the greatest need for change or innovation? Please be specific and defend your choices in terms of the larger curricular goals of providing access and opportunity for students at all levels.
                        2. As a current or future music educator, what long-range goals do you have for students in your music program or classes? What should a student in your program know and be able to do before they move to the next level? How do the goals differ for students with different levels of engagement in music? Support each of your goals with rationale for your choices.
                        3. What is the purpose of research in music education? Describe one area of research that is of interest to you. Describe the research and the reasons for your interest in it. How might this research change the way we teach music or think about music teaching and learning?

                        If your prescreening materials are reviewed favorably, you will be contacted by the Office of Music Admission to set up an interview with a member of the Music Education faculty. A final interview is required.

                        Other Degrees

                        Master of Music: Music Education (2 year w/certification)
                        Bachelor of Music: Music Education

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                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Jazz Studies (All Instruments)

                        Prescreening required; must be video format. If the applicant is unable to record prescreening with live musicians, please feel free to use the backing tracks of your choice.

                        If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 11-13

                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Jazz Studies (All Instruments)

                        Prescreening required; must be video format. If the applicant is unable to record prescreening with live musicians, please feel free to use the backing tracks of your choice.

                        If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 11-13

                        For Prescreening and Final Audition:

                        • Trumpet, saxophone, and trombone players will perform with piano (or guitar), bass, and drums.

                        • Guitarists will perform with piano, bass, and drums.

                        • Pianists will perform with bass and drums.

                        • Bassists will perform with piano (or guitar) and drums.

                        • Drummers will perform with piano (or guitar) and bass.

                        Choose one song from each of the categories and be prepared to perform the song’s melody. Rhythm section instruments should demonstrate the ability to accompany a soloist.

                        All songs are listed in concert key:

                        Up-Tempo

                        • Sonny Stitt, The Eternal Triangle, Bb Major, approx. quarter note = 208
                        • Cole Porter, From This Moment On, F minor, approx. quarter note = 190
                        • Jerome Kern/Dorothy Fields, The Way You Look Tonight, F Major, approx. quarter note = 190

                        Blues

                        • Charlie Parker, Chi Chi, Ab Major, approx. quarter note = 190
                        • John Coltrane, Mr. Day, Gb Major, approx. quarter note = 220
                        • Charlie Parker, Cheryl, C Major, approx. quarter note = 180

                        Ballads

                        • Duke Ellington, Sophisticated Lady, Ab major
                        • Thelonious Monk, Ruby, My Dear, Eb Major
                        • Herb Ellis/John Frigo/Lou Carter, Detour Ahead, C Major

                        Waltz

                        • Bill Evans, Waltz for Debby, F Major, approx. quarter noter = 200
                        • Thelonious Monk, Ugly Beauty, Db Major, approx. quarter note = 90
                        • Richard Rodgers/Lorenz Hart, Falling in Love with Love, Bb Major, approx. quarter note = 90

                        Drummers only

                        In addition to the selections listed above, drummers should prepare the following grooves:

                        • Afro-Cuban 6/8 groove

                        • Shuffle groove with backbeat

                        • Swing groove with brushes (slow, medium, and fast)

                        • Swing groove with sticks (slow, medium, and fast)

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                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Horn

                        Prescreening required; must be video format. All repertoire must be recorded in the same room to maintain a consistent acoustic environment across requirements, but repertoire can be uploaded in separate video files. 

                        Prescreening and audition unaccompanied.

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 6, 7, 13, & 14

                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Horn

                        Prescreening required; must be video format. All repertoire must be recorded in the same room to maintain a consistent acoustic environment across requirements, but repertoire can be uploaded in separate video files. 

                        Prescreening and audition unaccompanied.

                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                        February 6, 7, 13, & 14

                        For Prescreening:

                        Solo Repertoire: 

                        • One solo movement of a sonata demonstrating style, tone, range, rhythm, and technique
                        • Exposition section from any Mozart concerto
                        • Exposition section from any Strauss concerto
                        • One étude from Maxime Alphonse Book No. 5

                        Required Orchestral Excerpts:

                        • Beethoven, Symphony No. 9, Horn 4 (3rd movement, mm 82-99)

                        • Brahms, Symphony No. 2, Horn 1 (1st and 2nd movement solos) OR Symphony No. 3, Horn 1 (3rd movement solo)

                        • Strauss, Ein Heldenleben, Horn 1 (opening call)

                        For Final Audition:

                        • Schumann Adagio and Allegro, Op.70 (first page)
                        • Erika Raum, Confessions of St. Augustine (movement 1 only) OR Persichetti, Parable VIII for solo horn (complete)
                        • First-movement exposition section from any Mozart concerto

                        Required Orchestral Excerpts:

                        • Beethoven, Symphony No. 9, Horn 4 (3rd movement, mm 82-99)

                        • Brahms, Symphony No. 2, Horn 1 (1st and 2nd movement solos) OR Symphony No. 3, Horn 1 (3rd movement solo)

                        • Shostakovich, Symphony No. 5, Horn 1 (low tutti section, 1st movement)

                        • Wagner, Götterdämmerung, short all

                        • Strauss, Ein Heldenleben, Horn 1 (opening call)

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                        Program Requirements

                        Master of Music: Harp

                        No prescreening; audition unaccompanied.

                        Fall 2026 Audition Date:

                        February 13

                          Program Requirements

                          Master of Music: Harp

                          No prescreening; audition unaccompanied.

                          Fall 2026 Audition Date:

                          February 13

                            For Final Audition:

                            • One movement of a concerto, such as Debussy, Ginastera, Mozart, Ravel, Reinecke, etc.
                            • One large solo work for harp. Note: memorization of one solo work is required. Solo examples include:
                              • Britten, Suite for Harp
                              • Fauré, Impromptu
                              • Grandjany, Rhapsodie
                              • Salzedo, Variations on a Theme in Ancient Style
                            • Two orchestral excerpts from Principal Harp Volume 1 or 2 by Sarah Bullen
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                            Program Requirements

                            Master of Music: Flute

                            Prescreening required; video recording and accompaniment preferred. Prescreening without accompaniment is also accepted. 

                            If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                            Auditions are unaccompanied.

                            Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                            Regular Decision: February 7 & 14

                              Program Requirements

                              Master of Music: Flute

                              Prescreening required; video recording and accompaniment preferred. Prescreening without accompaniment is also accepted. 

                              If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                              Auditions are unaccompanied.

                              Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                              Regular Decision: February 7 & 14

                                For Prescreening:

                                • Two contrasting works, one from the Baroque, Classical, or Romantic style and one from the 20th or 21st century. If including a multi-movement work, only two contrasting movements from the work are required.
                                • Two contrasting orchestral excerpts

                                For Final Audition:

                                • Four works representing different styles from the standard repertoire. If including a multi-movement work, only two contrasting movements from the work are required.
                                • Four contrasting orchestral excerpts demonstrating both lyrical and technical skills.
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                                Program Requirements

                                Master of Music: Euphonium

                                Prescreening required; audio or video recordings are accepted. If submitting video prescreening, please position the video so that your embouchure is clearly visible.

                                Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different files. It is also acceptable to upload a single file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                TBD

                                  Program Requirements

                                  Master of Music: Euphonium

                                  Prescreening required; audio or video recordings are accepted. If submitting video prescreening, please position the video so that your embouchure is clearly visible.

                                  Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different files. It is also acceptable to upload a single file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                  Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                  TBD

                                    For Prescreening and Final Audition:

                                    ​​​​​​​Please choose 6 excerpts from standard solo literature that display the following aspects of your playing. Selections can include orchestral, band, or chamber music repertoire or études.

                                    1. Lyrical playing
                                    2. Technical playing
                                    3. Loud dynamic
                                    4. Soft dynamic
                                    5. High register
                                    6. Low register 

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                                    Program Requirements

                                    Master of Music: Double Bass

                                    Prescreening required; must be video format.

                                    Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                    Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                    February 6, 12, third date TBD

                                    Program Requirements

                                    Master of Music: Double Bass

                                    Prescreening required; must be video format.

                                    Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                    Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                    February 6, 12, third date TBD

                                    For Prescreening:

                                    • Two contrasting solo pieces

                                    • Orchestral excerpts—one from each of the following three composers: 
                                      • Mozart, choose one from symphonies 35, 39, or 40
                                      • Strauss, choose one from Ein Heldenleben, Don Juan, or Also Sprach Zarathustra
                                      • Beethoven, choose one from symphonies 3,5, or 9

                                    For Final Audition:

                                    • Two contrasting solo pieces
                                    • One movement from J.S. Bach, Suites for Violoncello
                                    • All of the following orchestral excerpts: 
                                      • Mozart, Symphony No. 35, 1st movement: measures 13-48
                                      • Beethoven, Symphony No. 5: Scherzo and Trio
                                      • Strauss, Ein Heldenleben: #9-end at 6 measures after #12
                                      • Brahms, Symphony No. 2, 1st movement: letters E-F
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                                    Program Requirements

                                    Master of Music: Conducting (Choral, Orchestral or Wind)

                                    Prescreening required; must be video format.

                                    Applicants must have completed beginning and advanced conducting classes for admission to the Master of Music in Conducting. 

                                    If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                    Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                    Choral: TBD | Orchestral: February 19, 24, & 26 | Wind: TBD

                                    For Prescreening:

                                    •    Demonstrate conducting skills in both rehearsal and performance situations. Additional audio recordings of performances may be submitted, especially if the audio aspect of the video recording is not high quality.  

                                    For Final Audition:

                                    • Applicants invited to campus for a live audition will be informed of the scores to be prepared. Candidates will need to obtain and study the scores in preparation to conduct and rehearse all or any part of them. Scores may be marked any way the applicant wishes. All auditions will take place with one of the Bienen School of Music's major ensembles, and both rehearsal and performance conducting will be tested.
                                    • An interview with the conducting faculty will be scheduled to provide faculty with the opportunity to learn about the applicant’s goals, ambitions, and needs; assess the candidate’s ability to communicate and project their own personality; and evaluate the strength of the applicant’s motivation to pursue a graduate degree and subsequent career in conducting. Choral candidates should be prepared to sing a solo song, with provided accompanist, demonstrating range and stylistic flexibility, as well as read at sight and demonstrate their comfort with Italian, French, and German, as well as offer additional languages in which they are proficient.

                                    Other Degrees

                                    Doctor of Musical Arts: Conducting

                                    Program Requirements

                                    Master of Music: Conducting (Choral, Orchestral or Wind)

                                    Prescreening required; must be video format.

                                    Applicants must have completed beginning and advanced conducting classes for admission to the Master of Music in Conducting. 

                                    If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                    Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                    Choral: TBD | Orchestral: February 19, 24, & 26 | Wind: TBD

                                    For Prescreening:

                                    •    Demonstrate conducting skills in both rehearsal and performance situations. Additional audio recordings of performances may be submitted, especially if the audio aspect of the video recording is not high quality.  

                                    For Final Audition:

                                    • Applicants invited to campus for a live audition will be informed of the scores to be prepared. Candidates will need to obtain and study the scores in preparation to conduct and rehearse all or any part of them. Scores may be marked any way the applicant wishes. All auditions will take place with one of the Bienen School of Music's major ensembles, and both rehearsal and performance conducting will be tested.
                                    • An interview with the conducting faculty will be scheduled to provide faculty with the opportunity to learn about the applicant’s goals, ambitions, and needs; assess the candidate’s ability to communicate and project their own personality; and evaluate the strength of the applicant’s motivation to pursue a graduate degree and subsequent career in conducting. Choral candidates should be prepared to sing a solo song, with provided accompanist, demonstrating range and stylistic flexibility, as well as read at sight and demonstrate their comfort with Italian, French, and German, as well as offer additional languages in which they are proficient.

                                    Other Degrees

                                    Doctor of Musical Arts: Conducting

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                                    Program Requirements

                                    Master of Music: Classical Guitar

                                    No prescreening; audition unaccompanied.

                                    Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                    February 6, 9, & 13

                                      Program Requirements

                                      Master of Music: Classical Guitar

                                      No prescreening; audition unaccompanied.

                                      Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                      February 6, 9, & 13

                                        For Final Audition:

                                        • Contrasting movements from a Bach lute suite or another equivalent work from the 16th- through 18th-century repertoire
                                        • Sonata, fantasy, or theme and variations by 19th-century composers such as Sor, Giuliani, Mertz, Regondi, or an equivalent work from early 20th-century repertoire by Ponce, Turina, Castelnuovo-Tedesco, or Torroba
                                        • Major 20th- or 21st-century work by Britten, Brouwer, Ginastera, Henze, Walton, or equivalent.
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                                        Contact the Office of Music Admission and Financial Aid:
                                        musiclife@northwestern.edu or 847-491-3141
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                                        Program Requirements

                                        Master of Music: Clarinet

                                        Prescreening required; must be video format. 

                                        If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                        Auditions are unaccompanied.

                                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                        TBD

                                        Program Requirements

                                        Master of Music: Clarinet

                                        Prescreening required; must be video format. 

                                        If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                        Auditions are unaccompanied.

                                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                        TBD

                                        For Prescreening:

                                        NOTE: The Debussy and Mozart requirements must be submitted with piano accompaniment. 

                                        • #21 from Rose 40 Studies for Clarinet
                                        • #35 from Rose 40 Studies for Clarinet
                                        • Mozart, Clarinet Concerto KV 622, first movement exposition: bars 57-154 (with piano accompaniment) 
                                        • Mozart, Clarinet Concerto KV 622, third movement: beginning to bar 72 (with piano accompaniment)
                                        • Debussy, Rhapsodie  (with piano accompaniment)
                                        • Required Orchestral Excerpts:
                                          • Respighi, Pines of Rome, third movement: beginning to rehearsal number 15
                                          • Stravinsky, "Firebird Variation" from The Firebird Suite (1919): rehearsal 9 to end of variation
                                          • Beethoven, Symphony No. 6, first movement: 2 before K to bar 492
                                          • Beethoven, Symphony No. 6, second movement: bars 68-77
                                          • Mendelssohn, A Midsummer's Night Dream, scherzo: beginning to letter B, 7th bar of D until 2 bars before G (please record both Mendelssohn excerpts in one video) 

                                        For Final Audition:

                                        • Mozart, Clarinet Concerto KV 622, first movement exposition: bars 57-154 
                                        • Mozart, Clarinet Concerto KV 622, third movement: beginning to bar 72
                                        • Debussy, Rhapsodie 
                                        • Required Orchestral Excerpts:
                                          • Beethoven, Symphony No. 6, first movement: 2 before K to bar 492
                                          • Beethoven, Symphony No. 6, second movement: bars 68-77
                                          • Stravinsky, "Firebird Variation" from The Firebird Suite (1919): rehearsal 9 to end of variation
                                          • Ravel, Daphnis et Chloé Suite No. 2: rehearsal 155-158, 212-end
                                          • Mendelssohn, A Midsummer's Night Dream, scherzo: beginning to letter B, 7th bar of D until 2 bars before G 
                                          • Respighi, Pines of Rome, third movement: beginning to rehearsal number 15
                                          • Brahms, Symphony No. 3, first movement: letter B to bar 46
                                          • Brahms, Symphony No. 3, second movement: beginning to letter B
                                          • Rimsky-Korsakov, Capriccio Espagnol, first movement: letters A-B, C to 12 bars before end of movement
                                          • Rimsky-Korsakov, Capriccio Espagnol, third movement:  11th bar of K to end of movement
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                                        Contact the Office of Music Admission and Financial Aid:
                                        musiclife@northwestern.edu or 847-491-3141
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                                        Program Requirements

                                        Master of Music: Cello

                                        Prescreening required; must be video format. Prescreening may or may not include accompaniment, at the discretion of the applicant. 

                                        If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                        Auditions are unaccompanied.

                                        Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                        February 6 & 13

                                          Program Requirements

                                          Master of Music: Cello

                                          Prescreening required; must be video format. Prescreening may or may not include accompaniment, at the discretion of the applicant. 

                                          If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                          Auditions are unaccompanied.

                                          Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                          February 6 & 13

                                            For Prescreening:

                                            • One étude by Popper or one caprice by Piatti
                                            • One movement from a Bach Suite
                                            • The exposition from a standard cello concerto

                                            For Final Audition:

                                            • One étude by Popper and one caprice by Piatti OR two by either
                                            • Two contrasting movements from a Bach Suite
                                            • One complete cello concerto by a composer such as Haydn, Schumann, Tchaikovsky, Elgar, Shostakovich, or Prokofiev
                                            • One piece composed after 1940

                                            Fall 2025 Audition Formats:

                                            All applicants whose program requires an audition are asked to audition on campus. Virtual auditions will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants should wait to receive their prescreening results before contacting the Office of Music Admission about virtual audition options.

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                                            Contact the Office of Music Admission and Financial Aid:
                                            musiclife@northwestern.edu or 847-491-3141
                                            Become a Prospective Student

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                                            Program Requirements

                                            Master of Music: Bassoon

                                            No prescreening; audition unaccompanied.

                                            Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                            February 7 & 14

                                            Program Requirements

                                            Master of Music: Bassoon

                                            No prescreening; audition unaccompanied.

                                            Fall 2026 Audition Dates:

                                            February 7 & 14

                                            For Final Audition:

                                            Solo Selections:

                                            • Choose exposition sections from two works or movements that are contrasting in style or time period.

                                            NOTE: Listed repertoire is not required; any pieces of commensurate difficulty will be accepted. Two contrasting movements from the following compositions are also acceptable.

                                            Suggested solos:

                                            • Milde, étude from Concert Studies Book 2
                                            • Mozart, Concerto K.191, first and second movements
                                            • Saint-Saëns, Sonata, first and second movements
                                            • Vivaldi, any concerto, first and third movements

                                            Orchestral Excerpts:

                                            • Three contrasting orchestral excerpts of the applicant's choice 

                                            NOTE: Listed repertoire is not required; any pieces of commensurate difficulty will be accepted. 

                                            Suggested orchestral excerpts: 

                                            • Ravel, Boléro (solo)
                                            • Stravinsky, Le sacre du printemps, opening and recapitulation on C-flat
                                            • Mozart, Overture to Le Nozze di Figaro, opening and recapitulation (eighth-note passages)
                                            • Beethoven, Symphony No. 4, fourth movement (sixteenth-note passages)
                                            • Tchaikovsky, Symphony No. 4, end of second movement

                                            In addition: please be prepared to play a selection of major and harmonic-minor scales and major and minor arpeggios. 

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                                            Contact the Office of Music Admission and Financial Aid:
                                            musiclife@northwestern.edu or 847-491-3141
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                                            Program Requirements

                                            Master of Music: Bass Trombone

                                            Prescreening required; must be video format. Video should be shot from left side so mouthpiece is clearly visible.

                                            Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                            Fall 2026 Audition Dates: 

                                            February 7 & 14

                                            Program Requirements

                                            Master of Music: Bass Trombone

                                            Prescreening required; must be video format. Video should be shot from left side so mouthpiece is clearly visible.

                                            Prescreening and audition unaccompanied. If possible, prescreening repertoire should be separated into different video files. It is also acceptable to upload a single video file that contains all required prescreening repertoire. Please see the Graduate Application for more information. 

                                            Fall 2026 Audition Dates: 

                                            February 7 & 14

                                            For Prescreening and Final Audition:

                                            All repertoire required. No substitutions.

                                            Solo Selections:

                                            • Spillman, Concerto, first movement

                                            • Bach, Sarabande (no repeats)

                                            Orchestral Excerpts:

                                            • Berlioz, The Damnation of Faust  "Hungarian March"  

                                            • Haydn, The Creation

                                            • Mahler, Symphony No. 7, first movement

                                            • Schumann, Symphony No. 3, fourth movement

                                            • Wagner, Die Walküre "Ride of the Valkyries," B Maj. section

                                            • Wagner, Das Rheingold

                                            • Rossini, Overture to William Tell 

                                            • Kodály, Háry János

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                                            Contact the Office of Music Admission and Financial Aid:
                                            musiclife@northwestern.edu or 847-491-3141
                                            Become a Prospective Student

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                                            Doctor of Musical Arts: Conducting

                                            Degree Requirements

                                            Graduate (MM & DMA)

                                            Program of Study — 18-21 units

                                            Courses outside of the Bienen School of Music do not count toward the minimum 18 units required for the degree.

                                             

                                            Applied Studies — 6 units

                                            Students should select the section appropriate to their area of study.

                                            • CONDUCT 540 Seminar in Conducting

                                             

                                            Music Studies Core — 2 units 

                                            Doctor of Musical Arts: Piano Performance and Pedagogy

                                            Degree Requirements

                                            Graduate (MM & DMA)

                                            Program of Study (20 units)

                                            • PIANO 561 Applied Piano (6 units)
                                            • PIANO 340 Recital Hour (0 units but registration required each quarter)
                                            • Pedagogy Coursework (5 units)
                                              PIANO 415-1
                                              PIANO 415-2
                                              PIANO 415-3
                                              PIANO 420
                                              PIANO 459
                                            • MUSIC 540 Doctoral Music Research (1 unit; offered in fall quarter)
                                            • MUSICOL 400 Graduate Review of History (1 unit, offered in winter quarter)
                                            • MUS THEORY Coursework (1 unit)