Incoming music majors need to apply both to SVSU and to the department. Audition dates and information are below along with specific information related to auditions for select ensembles.
Minors do not need to audition, but must take a music theory assessment. Non-music degree students may participate in ensembles at SVSU.
Auditioning for Entrance into the Department of Music (BA in Music or BA in Music Education)
Audition dates for admission into the Department of Music program and also for the Rhea Miller Scholarships in Music for the 2013-2014 academic year are:
Also, we have summer audition slots that are available for late auditions during the summer of 2013 (for admittance in Fall 2013). Please contact the department using the information below for more information.
Additionally, a musicianship and written assessment as well as an interview will occur during your audition. Please be prepared to allow time after you perform to complete these assessments.
Appointments can be made by either calling or emailing our office:
Phone: 989-964-4159
Email: music@svsu.edu
Adding Music as a Minor
Potential music minors must take a musicianship assessment for admittance into the music minor program.
Audition Requirements for Ensembles
Auditions for Winter 2013 jazz ensemble participation will be held on Friday, Noevmber 30th and include the following:
-Show sight reading skills in various jazz styles (swing, latin, funk, etc)
-Demonstrate any improvisational skills
-Be knowledgeable of basic theory skills (chords, scales, chord progression (dominant,sub-dominant, tonic, etc.)
Though not all groups are auditioned some directors may ask to hear you play individually to ensure that you are placed properly in the ensemble.
Additional Advice
If you would like to be a major or minor but cannot read music (or pass the theory assessment) you should take MUS 117D in the Winter (or alternate Spring) semester, then re-audition or take the theory test late in that Winter semester. Music 117D is Musical Experience: The Piano, which includes learning to read music and some music theory, and at the same time meets a gen. ed. requirement for category 2.
