Birmingham Conservatoire : Auditions

Auditions

Instrumentalists & Singers (Percussionists excepted) must perform two pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of their own choice. Candidates may also be asked to play scales (ABSM Grade VIII standard) and sight-read.
Percussionists will be asked to play pieces on Timpani, Drum Kit, Snare Drum and Tuned Percussion (Xylophone or Vibraphone or Marimba).
Composers must send a portfolio of at least three compositions and a high-quality recording of at least one of these works.

Official accompanists will be provided but candidates may bring their own accompanists if they prefer.

Candidates are required to perform two contrasting pieces with a rhythm section (provided), one of which must be chosen from a list of standards, and one of their own choice. Candidates will also be asked to perform a short transcribed solo (Drummers & Vocalists excepted) and sight-read.
Pianists, Bassists and Drummers audition by taking their place in the rhythm trio.
Drummers & Vocalists will be asked to play through the chord changes of any of the listed standards at the piano.
Drummers must also take part in an interactive test, joining in with various grooves indicated by the piano and bass.
All candidates will be interviewed at audition.

Postgraduate audition requirements vary according to area of specialist study. A summary of the major audition elements is provided below.

Performance candidates (excluding Jazz performers and accompanists) will be asked to present a varied programme of about 15 minutes duration. Depending on the area of study, candidates may be required to include orchestral excerpts, an extended piece and/or specified material.
Singers must include works in at least three European languages, including English.
Brass Quintet candidates must audition as an ensemble and individually.
Jazz performers should perform two contrasting pieces with a rhythm section (provided), as well as a short transcribed solo (unaccompanied). Pianists, Bassists and Drummers audition by taking their place in the rhythm trio. Guitarists may choose to audition with just bass and drums, or the full rhythm trio.
Piano Accompaniment candidates should bring a singer with whom they must perform three works (including a Lied ), and must also perform an extended piece/movement for solo piano and sight-read.
Composers (including Jazz composers) should be prepared to discuss a portfolio of compositions, which they must previously have submitted, if possible with accompanying recordings.
Musicologists should send a summary of their proposed project and be prepared to discuss this at interview.
Choral Conducting & Community Music candidates may be asked to prepare a programme which will form the basis of their audition. Please contact Admissions for details.

Instrumental performers should present a stylistically varied programme (25 minutes maximum) of at least three works, including one extended work/movement.
Vocal performers should perform a programme (20 minutes maximum) including works in at least three European languages, including English. These may include arias from the operatic and/or oratorio repertoire. Candidates will also be asked to read short texts in French, German and Italian.
Piano Accompaniment candidates should bring a singer with whom they must perform three works (including a Lied ), and must also perform two contrasting solo piano works from the standard repertoire, including a substantial movement from the Classical or Romantic repertoire (total duration 10-15 minutes). Candidates will also be asked to sight-read.
Opera repetiteurs must play two contrasting solo piano works including a substantial movement from the Classical or Romantic repertoire (total duration 10-15 minutes). Candidates must also play a substantial prepared extract from an operatic vocal score, give a short coaching session in a prepared operatic excerpt to a singer (without prior rehearsal) and sight-read.
All applicants (repetiteurs excepted) must send a current repertoire list and two sample 50-minute recital programme proposals when requested.

For further details, please contact:

Admissions
Birmingham Conservatoire
Birmingham City University
Paradise Place, Birmingham B3 3HG

T: +44 (0)121 331 5901/5902
F: +44 (0)121 331 5906
E: Conservatoire Admissions