Vander Cook Sign 1 1

Where the most Inspired Musicians
become the most Inspiring Music Teachers

VanderCook College of Music

Audition Guidelines

Candidates applying for undergraduate, MCert, or TCEP programs will be required to either submit a video audition or schedule an in-person audition. The MMEd program does not require an audition.

Repertoire

Perform two pieces that demonstrate a contrast of tempo and style. NOTE: Please upload a PDF copy of your repertoire prior to your audition through Acceptd (for in-person and online auditions).

Audition Options

  • In-Person Audition
  • Online/Video Audition (via Acceptd – online application platform)

In-Person Audition Guidelines

  • Perform two selections of contrasting styles, or one longer selection that demonstrates both. NOTE: Please upload a PDF copy of the selections to be performed via Acceptd
  • Major scales that demonstrate your technique and range. Please be prepared to have scales selected for you. Minor scales are encouraged but optional.
  • Sight-reading exercise
  • Interview with the panelists held during your audition time.
What to wear: Professional attire is expected.

Online (Video) Audition Guidelines

You are required to upload separate audition videos for each of the following:

  • Introduction video (click here to view Introduction Video Guidelines)
  • Perform two selections of contrasting styles (two separate videos) or one longer selection that demonstrates both (one video). NOTE: Please upload a PDF copy of the selections performed via Acceptd
  • Perform major scales that demonstrate your technique and range. One sharp key and one flat key (2 scales minimum; please perform at least one sharp key and one flat key). Minor scales are optional but encouraged.
What to wear: Professional attire is expected.

Instrument Specific Guidelines

Percussion

Beyond scales and sight-reading, try to prepare as many of the following as possible: 
  • Snare drum solo or étude in an orchestral/concert style
  • Snare drum solo or étude in a rudimental style
  • One 2-mallet and one 4-mallet keyboard selection
  • A timpani solo or étude
  • Demonstrate styles on drum set (optional)

Instrumental

  • Two selections of contrasting styles, or one longer selection that demonstrates both.
  • Major scales that demonstrate your technique and range. Please be prepared to have scales selected for you. Minor scales encouraged, but optional.
  • Sight-reading exercise

Choral

  • Perform two contrasting selections that demonstrate your abilities. This may be something in a foreign language and something in English, an art song and a musical theatre piece, something that demonstrates your ability to sing phrases and something that demonstrates your flexibility. Most importantly, choose music that shows us who you are as a musician.
  • Demonstrate that you can sing scales in tune. Singing scales – You may use solfege syllables, numbers, or a neutral syllable. Please prepare to sing one octave followed by the arpeggio in a comfortable range. Perform as many of the following scales: major, natural minor, melodic minor, harmonic minor. For the minor scales, they may be la-based or do-based minor.
  • Here are some scale suggestions to perform: Sop/Tenor F major and D minor; Alto and Bass: D or D-flat major and B or B-flat minor, for example.
  • Sight-reading exercise

For in-person auditions, you may bring your own accompanist, or you may request an accompanist two weeks prior to your audition. Contact [email protected] to make your request.

VanderCook Scholars Program

High school seniors looking to turn their passion for music into a career may be eligible for this opportunity which offers accepted incoming freshmen a four-year FREE tuition scholarship.

Slide

Every Gift Matters…

Gifts to VanderCook come in many forms and sizes and each one truly makes a difference. You may wonder how a small contribution can matter to the college – how it can “make a dent.” Combined with other donor gifts, even a relatively minor contribution can make a major impact.

Thank you for your generosity and support!

Logo 2022 Dark 1
3140 South Federal Street
Chicago, IL 60616-3731
(312) 225-6288

The mission of VanderCook College of Music is to enrich the lives of present and future generations by developing uniquely skilled music teachers who exhibit strong character, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.

© 2024 VanderCook College of Music. All Rights Reserved.
Scroll to Top