To be accepted into our program and be eligible for a music scholarship, you must first apply to and be accepted by Marian University.
If you want to pursue a degree in music and/or are seeking a scholarship to perform in Marian University's Show Choir, marching band, or other ensembles (including the color guard), auditions with faculty members are required.
2019 audition dates
Audition dates for students interested in enrolling at Marian University for the fall semester starting in August of 2019 are:
- January 24, 2019
- February 8, 2019
- February 15, 2019
Scheduling auditions
To schedule an audition, please register online here.
If you have questions, need assistance, or want more information, please email:
On-campus auditions are preferred. If you are unable to come to Marian University for an audition, please contact us.
Audition requirements
For students who want to major or minor in vocal music
Choose two pieces to sing for your audition:
- One from classical repertoire (i.e., art songs and/or arias oratorio in English, Italian, French, German, or Spanish).
- One from musical theatre or the Great American Songbook.
Be prepared to sing scales and repeat short interval patterns. An accompanist will be provided and you will have a brief rehearsal session. Bring a copy of your music in a ringed binder.
For students who want perform with Knight Fusion Show Choir
- Sing one selection from musical theatre, Great American Songbook, or popular music, that shows your vocal ability.
- Be prepared to sing scales and repeat short interval patterns.
- Participate in a brief movement/dance audition.
An accompanist will be provided and you will have a brief rehearsal session. Bring a copy of your music in a ringed binder.
For additional information on vocal music and show choir auditions, please email Jeanne Bowling.
For students who want perform with Sacred Choir
- Sing one hymn, psalm, or solo song.
- Be prepared to sing scales and repeat short interval patterns.
An accompanist will be provided and you will have a brief rehearsal session. Bring a copy of your music in a ringed binder.
For students who want to major or minor in instrumental music
Brass and Woodwinds
Each audition includes an interview. Be prepared for sight reading and to play:
- One movement or etude at a faster tempo, demonstrating your rhythmic and technical skills.
- One movement or etude at a slower tempo, demonstrating your lyrical playing (may be movements or large sections from the same work).
- All major scales and a full-range chromatic scale from memory (panel will ask for specific scales).
Percussion
Each audition is scheduled for 30 minutes and includes an interview. Be prepared for sight reading on snare drum, marimba, and timpani. Be prepared to play:
- Snare drum—One solo or etude of your choice (example: Delecluse, Albright, Peters, Cirone, Goldenberg, Wilcoxin, Pratt or any equivalent).
- Marimba and/or vibraphone or xylophone—One solo of your choice (example: G.H. Green rag, Peters, Stout, Abe, Bach, Smadbeck, Sammut, Musser, Rosauro or any equivalent).
- Timpani—One solo or etude (for at least three-to-four timpani preferred) of your choice (example: Goodman, Vic Firth, Peters, Delecluse, Schinstine or any equivalent).
- Drum set (optional)—Demonstrate various styles like rock/funk, jazz, Latin (bossa nova, samba, songo, mambo, calypso/soca, etc.) and/or be prepared for a solo.
Music auditions for non-music majors
- Please prepare a solo on your principal instrument and major scales up to four sharps and four flats.
Auditions for the university's color guard
- Auditions for the 2019-20 Marian University color guard will be held February 8, 2019 or by appointment.
- For information about participating in our marching band, color guard, or instrumental ensembles, please email Kathy Spangler.
