Conservatoire audition requirements

Audition requirements for Advanced Postgraduate Diploma: Professional Performance

APD auditions

There will be two rounds of auditions. Applicants must pass the pre-screening round in order to proceed to live auditions.

Live auditions will be scheduled in the main audition period in November.

Pre-Screening Materials

All applicants are required to submit pre-screening materials for consideration by the audition panel. These should be submitted to us at conservatoire.admissions@bcu.ac.uk for UK applicants and conservatoire.international@bcu.ac.uk for overseas applicants and include:

• A full list of public performances given over the past 24 months, clearly indicating dates, venues and repertoire performed.
• A current biography (of the kind that would appear in a concert/operatic production programme).
• Video recordings, the specific details of which are outlined below. Individual works may be provided as separate recordings but multi-movement works should be recorded in one take.

Your application will not be considered by the audition panel until they have received the pre-screening materials listed above.

Instrumental Performance

Instrumentalists should prepare a programme of 40 minutes. Your programme should include a major work and incorporate a variety of periods and styles.

Vocal Performance

Singers should prepare a programme of 40 minutes. Your programme should include music from works in at least three European languages, including English.

Organ Performance

Organists should prepare a programme of 40 minutes. Your programme should include a major work and incorporate a variety of periods and styles.

Collaborative Piano Performance

Collaborative pianists should prepare a programme of 40 minutes. Your programme may include a solo work of no more than 5 minutes, and the remainder should include either vocal repertoire, for example, German Lied, French mélodie or English song; or instrumental repertoire, for example a movement from a major duo-sonata or larger chamber work (strings and/or wind). Alternatively, a combination of the above may be presented.

Chamber Music Performance (established ensembles only) 

Ensembles should prepare a programme of 40 minutes. Your programme should include three or four pieces/movements comprising a variety of periods and styles.

Opera Repetiteurship

Repetiteurs should prepare a short operatic extract lasting between 10-15 minutes. Candidates must play and sing in the vocal lines. The extract must contain at least two characters and be in a language other than English. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of characterisation and dramatic context.

Choral Conducting

Choral Conductors are required to submit a Portfolio comprising the following items:

• Sample video recordings (where possible) that feature you as conductor in rehearsal (amounting to a maximum of 30 minutes)
  • Videos may feature an ensemble of any size to include chamber-sized groups of a minimum of four musicians.
  • The camera should ideally be focused on you as conductor, and if possible on your musicians too.
• A list of concerts performed/rehearsal engagements undertaken in the last two years with repertoire covered
• A programming task: please include sample programmes for a) a lunchtime concert (50 minutes) and b) an evening concert (2 x 40 minute halves)
  • B. conductors are asked to programme a cappella or with piano or organ accompaniment only.
• Programme note samples (for two different works drawn from the above sample programmes)
• Concert reviews (if any)

Live auditions

Live auditions will comprise an audition and an interview with a panel, to include the Course Director, Head of Professional Development and Head of Department. Some additional requirements to those stated above are set out below:

Vocal Performance

You will also be asked to read short texts in French/German and/or Italian, and to undertake some sight-reading which will be given to you on the day of the audition.

Opera Repetiteurship

Approximately one week before the audition, you will be given an operatic excerpt (which may include accompanied recitative) to prepare in advance. In the audition, this should also be both played and sung.

Choral Conducting

In addition to the interview, conductors will be asked to undertake musicianship tests which will be sent to you in advance. These will include:

• Unaccompanied sight singing in your preferred voice part (to be advised in advance)
• A short passage of four-part score reading in G and F clefs on the piano
• You will also be given a few bars of four-part harmony to read which will be played four times with two or three significant mistakes for you to recognise.
• You will also be asked fundamental questions about score preparation and your conducting decisions based on a score which will be sent to you to prepare in advance, approximately one week before the interview. Where possible, you may be asked to conduct it (or a section of it) to the piano and/or sing a phrase or phrases to illustrate your points.

Audition Requirements for Undergraduate Brass Performers

Rehearsal

An official accompanist will be arranged for your audition and you will be given the opportunity to rehearse with them, but please note that rehearsal time will be limited.

If you are bringing your own accompanist, you will be allocated a room so that you can rehearse with your accompanist for 25 minutes prior to your audition. Please can you inform us if you will be bringing your own accompanist.

Audition

Applicants must perform two pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of their own choice.

All Candidates may be asked to play scales (ABRSM Grade VIII standard) and sight reading, and trumpet applicants may be asked for some transposition in C.

Interview

As part of your audition there will be an informal interview. The panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences, your inspiration to be a musician and your career objectives.

This is also an opportunity for you to ask the panel questions about your Department and what life will be like as a musician in Birmingham.

Audition Requirements for Postgraduate Brass Performers

Rehearsal

An official accompanist will be arranged for your audition and you will be given the opportunity to rehearse with them, but please note that rehearsal time will be limited.

If you are bringing your own accompanist, you will be allocated a room so that you can rehearse with your accompanist for 25 minutes prior to your audition. Please can you inform us if you will be bringing your own accompanist.

Audition

Performance candidates will be asked to present a varied programme of about 15 minutes’ duration which may be drawn from the concerto or concert repertoire. You should also prepare two contrasting orchestral excerpts and trumpet players should be prepared to transpose.

Interview

As part of your audition there will be an informal interview. The panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences, your inspiration to be a musician and your career objectives.

This is also an opportunity for you to ask the panel questions about your Department and what life will be like as a musician in Birmingham. This will be an informal opportunity for us to work together and get to know you better as a musician and performer.

Brass Quintet

Candidates must audition as an ensemble and individually.

Requirements are the same for live and recorded auditions.

Brass Quintets should present a varied programme of contrasting periods and styles lasting c. 20 minutes and including one original work.

Individual candidates will be asked to present a varied programme of about 15 minutes’ duration. This may include concert pieces or concerto movements.

Brass players should also prepare two contrasting orchestral excerpts.

Audition Recording

Applicants who wish to audition by recording should check this webpage.

Audition requirements for Brass Band Conducting

There will be two rounds of auditions. Applicants must pass Round One in order to proceed to Round Two.

Round Two applicants will be invited to a live audition in the Spring Term.

Applicants may be invited to attend an online interview at some point in the application process.

Round One:

Applicants for Orchestral, Choral or Brass Band Conducting are required to submit a Portfolio comprising the following items to conservatoire.admissions@bcu.ac.uk by Sunday 8th December 2024.

• Sample video recordings that feature you as conductor in rehearsal (amounting to a maximum of 30 minutes)
• Videos may feature an ensemble (orchestral/choral/brass) of any size to include chamber-sized groups of a minimum of four musicians.
• The camera should ideally be focused on you as conductor, and if possible on your musicians too.
• A list of concerts performed/rehearsal engagements undertaken in the last two years with repertoire covered
• A programming task: please include sample programmes for a) a lunchtime concert (50 minutes) and b) an evening concert (2 x 40 minute halves)
• N.B. Choral conductors are asked to programme a cappella or with piano or organ accompaniment only.
• Programme note samples (for two different works drawn from the above sample programmes)
• Concert reviews (if any)

Round Two:
You will be asked to conduct one or two pieces with an appropriate ensemble in front of a panel. You will also be interviewed and will undertake musicianship tests. Details of the repertoire and other requirements will be sent to you via email approximately three weeks before the audition.

Audition requirements for Choral Conducting

There will be two rounds of auditions. Applicants must pass Round One in order to proceed to Round Two.

Round Two applicants will be invited to a live audition in the Spring Term.

Applicants may be invited to attend an online interview at some point in the application process.

Round One:

Applicants for Orchestral, Choral or Brass Band Conducting are required to submit a Portfolio comprising the following items to conservatoire.admissions@bcu.ac.uk by Sunday 8th December 2024.

• Sample video recordings that feature you as conductor in rehearsal (amounting to a maximum of 30 minutes)
• Videos may feature an ensemble (orchestral/choral/brass) of any size to include chamber-sized groups of a minimum of four musicians.
• The camera should ideally be focused on you as conductor, and if possible on your musicians too.
• A list of concerts performed/rehearsal engagements undertaken in the last two years with repertoire covered
• A programming task: please include sample programmes for a) a lunchtime concert (50 minutes) and b) an evening concert (2 x 40 minute halves)
• N.B. Choral conductors are asked to programme a cappella or with piano or organ accompaniment only.
• Programme note samples (for two different works drawn from the above sample programmes)
• Concert reviews (if any)

Round Two:
You will be asked to conduct one or two pieces with an appropriate ensemble in front of a panel. You will also be interviewed and will undertake musicianship tests. Details of the repertoire and other requirements will be sent to you via email approximately three weeks before the audition.

Audition requirements for Orchestral Conducting

There will be two rounds of auditions. Applicants must pass Round One in order to proceed to Round Two.

Round Two applicants will be invited to a live audition in the Spring Term.

Applicants may be invited to attend an online interview at some point in the application process.

Round One:

Applicants for Orchestral, Choral or Brass Band Conducting are required to submit a Portfolio comprising the following items to conservatoire.admissions@bcu.ac.uk by Sunday 8th of December 2024.

• Sample video recordings that feature you as conductor in rehearsal (amounting to a maximum of 30 minutes)
• Videos may feature an ensemble (orchestral/choral/brass) of any size to include chamber-sized groups of a minimum of four musicians.
• The camera should ideally be focused on you as conductor, and if possible on your musicians too.
• A list of concerts performed/rehearsal engagements undertaken in the last two years with repertoire covered
• A programming task: please include sample programmes for a) a lunchtime concert (50 minutes) and b) an evening concert (2 x 40 minute halves)
• N.B. Choral conductors are asked to programme a cappella or with piano or organ accompaniment only.
• Programme note samples (for two different works drawn from the above sample programmes)
• Concert reviews (if any)

Round Two:
You will be asked to conduct one or two pieces with an appropriate ensemble in front of a panel. You will also be interviewed and will undertake musicianship tests. Details of the repertoire and other requirements will be sent to you via email approximately three weeks before the audition.

Audition requirements for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Composition Applicants

Portfolio requirements

Composers must send a portfolio of at least three compositions in any style, and where possible, recordings of some of these works. A broad range of pieces is encouraged, and your portfolio will form the basis of the audition discussion (approximately 25 minutes). Please send us your portfolio within two weeks of applying. 

Interview

The panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences, your inspiration to be a musician, and your career objectives. It is worth being familiar with compositional trends over the past 50 years and how you relate to these. This is also an opportunity for you to ask the panel questions about your Department and what life will be like as a musician in Birmingham.

Portfolio Submission

Once your application has been submitted we will contact you via e-mail on how our to upload your portfolio links to the MySRS portal.

We request that portfolios are submitted as one folder following this format:

Folder title: First Name_Surname_UCAS Applicant ID
Subfolder I - Scores
Subfolder II - Recordings

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Audition requirements for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Jazz Applicants

Rehearsal

Candidates are given the opportunity to rehearse with the rhythm section for half an hour before the audition. The candidate is expected to lead the rehearsal but the rhythm section will provide guidance and advice.

Audition

• All candidates are required to perform two contrasting pieces
• All candidates (except drummers and vocalists) are also required to play a short transcription as a solo performance.
• Drummers and vocalists are required to prepare some piano keyboard work instead of presenting a transcription. Candidates should be prepared to play through the chord changes of one of the listed standards at a piano or keyboard.
• If the audition panel requires further evidence of appropriate skills, they may give further tests such as sight reading, keyboard, aural or interactive tests.

Audition pieces

The first piece should be chosen from the list below:

1. Any 12 bar Blues head in any key. Typical examples include Blue Monk, Now’s the Time, Sandu, Tenor Madness, Straight No Chaser, Relaxin at Camarillo
2. Any Rhythm Changes in Bb concert. Typical examples include Anthropology, Oleo, I’ve Got Rhythm
3. Ladybird
4. Tune Up
5. Green Dolphin Street
6. I’ll Remember April
7. Body and Soul
8. Cherokee
9. What Is This thing Called Love
10. All The Things You Are
11. Confirmation
12. Yardbird Suite

The second piece is a free choice. It may again be chosen from the list above but could be any jazz standard or an original composition. If the piece is not from the given list then candidates are asked to bring copies of charts for each member of the band.

If the second piece is deemed stylistically inappropriate for audition to a jazz programme or the presentation of the parts is too poor to prepare a performance in the allotted time, then the candidate will be advised to perform another piece from the list above.

Interview

During the interview the panel will be interested to hear the candidate talk about their knowledge of the music, their artistic influences, what inspires them to be a jazz musician and to discuss their career objectives during the virtual interview.

This is also an opportunity for the candidate to ask the panel any questions about the jazz department and what life will be like as a jazz musician in Birmingham. 

Notes, guidelines and FAQs

1. Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your audition and interview.
2. Candidates are strongly encouraged to send audition videos where they are playing their audition repertoire as part of a small band. This will enable us to hear your interaction with other players. Where this is not possible, backing tracks can be used as an alternative. If this is not possible, please contact us via email: conservatoire.admissions@bcu.ac.uk.
3. In order to demonstrate a basic level of harmonic literacy, drum and vocal applicants are required to present some prepared work at the piano keyboard. The panel are not expecting piano skills to any performance level but need to know that the applicant can find satisfactory voicings for common chords in jazz language. Therefore drummers and vocalists are asked to choose one of the pieces from the list above and play through the chord progression at the piano or keyboard. Because of this extra requirement, drummers and vocalists do not have to prepare a transcription.
4. Bass players need only play the head in the first section of the audition and can choose whether or not to do so for the “free choice” section.
5. Candidates are asked to perform a short transcription of an improvised solo for their instrument. A PDF copy of the transcription should be provided for the audition panel. The transcription can be one that the candidate has done themselves or from any published source and should be performed either unaccompanied or along with the recording (if applicable).
6. What is a transcription? - Transcriptions are notated versions of improvisations. The panel would prefer to hear a transcription of an established improviser who is significant to the history of jazz. It is not appropriate to present arrangements in a jazz style or composed melodies for this section.
7. The panel will only consider offering places on the course to candidates who improvise for the majority of their performance.

If you are an organist, please be aware that organ scholarship trials are held at the same time as auditions and places fill up very quickly. You are strongly advised to apply by the on-time deadline.

Audition requirements for Undergraduate Keyboard Applicants

Rehearsal

You will be allocated a room to warm-up in for a period of 30 minutes before your audition.

Audition

• Piano Performance You will be asked to perform three pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of your own choice. Candidates will also be asked to sight read during the interview.
• Harpsichord You will be asked to perform three pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of your own choice. Candidates may also be asked to play scales (ABRSM Grade VIII standard) and sight read during the interview.
• Organ You will be asked to perform a work by J.S Bach and a work of your choice from the 19th/20th Century. Candidates will also be asked to sight read and transpose (both tests at approx. ABRSM Grade 8 level) .
  Organ auditions usually take place at St Chads Cathedral, more details here. However, if you are unable to travel to Birmingham for a live audition please send us an audition video and we will arrange a virtual interview for you.

Interview

As part of your audition there will be an informal interview. The panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences, your inspiration to be a musician and your career objectives.

This is also an opportunity for you to ask the panel questions about your Department and what life will be like as a musician in Birmingham. You may also be asked to play scales and sight read during the virtual interview.

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Audition requirements for Postgraduate Keyboard Applicants

Rehearsal

You will be allocated a room to warm-up in for a period of 30 minutes before your audition.

Audition

• Piano Performance Please perform a programme of pieces (or movements) of different styles or periods of your own choice. The programme should be at least 40 minutes in length, and must be recorded in one single take.
• Piano Accompaniment You should prepare a varied programme of 40 minutes, not all of which may be heard. It is preferable to include a partner(s), either a vocalist or instrumentalist(s) and demonstrate song or instrumental duo/trio/quartet/quintet work where possible. You may also include solo items, although this is not compulsory.
• Harpsichord You will be asked to present a varied programme of about 15 minutes’ duration. Candidates may also be asked demonstrate ability to play figured bass at sight during the virtual interview.
• Organ You will be asked to perform a short programme that should include:

• A significant work or movement by JS Bach
• A pre-Bach short work/movement
• A 19th/20th work/movement not exceeding 10 minutes in duration
• Auditions usually take place at St Chads Cathedral but if you are unable to travel to Birmingham for a live audition please send us an audition video and we will arrange a virtual interview for you.

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Audition requirements for Undergraduate BMus Music Technology Applicants

Portfolio Requirements

As part of the entry requirements of our BMus Music Technology programme you will be required to submit a portfolio of work. This must contain at least three pieces which may be recordings, productions, compositions, sound to picture or other appropriate material.

The portfolio should be submitted to us electronically via online links such as SoundCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox etc. Portfolios submitted online should be clearly navigable. Once your application has been submitted we will contact you via e-mail on how our to upload your audition portfolio to the MySRS portal.

Please send us your portfolio within two weeks of applying.

Interview

A discussion of your portfolio will form the basis of an interview of 15-25 minutes duration.

The interview panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences, your inspiration to be a musician and your career objectives. This is also an opportunity for you to ask the panel questions about the department and what life will be like as a musician in Birmingham.

Audition requirements for Undergraduate BSc Music Technology Applicants

A typical offer is 120 UCAS points, and is based on your UCAS application form.

Full details of entry requirements and how to apply is available on the BSc Music Technology course page.

Audition requirements for Postgraduate MMus Music Technology Applicants

Portfolio requirements

As part of the entry requirements of our MMus/PgDip/PgCert Music Technology programme you will be required to submit a portfolio of work. This must contain at least three pieces which may be recordings, productions, compositions, sound to picture or other appropriate material.

The portfolio can be submitted to us electronically via online links such SoundCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox, etc. Portfolios submitted online should be clearly navigable. Once your application has been submitted we will contact you via email on how to upload your audition portfolio to the MySRS portal. 

Please send us your portfolio within two weeks of applying.

We welcome applicants from musicians of all previous backgrounds, not just those that have studied music technology at undergraduate level.

Interview

A discussion of your portfolio will form the basis of an interview of 15-25 minutes duration.

The interview panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences, your inspiration to be a musician and your career objectives. This is also an opportunity for you to ask the panel questions about the department and what life will be like as a musician in Birmingham.

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Audition requirements for Undergraduate Percussion Applicants

Warm-up

You will be allocated a room in the Percussion Suite in which to warm up for a period of 20 to 30 minutes before your audition.

Audition

You will be expected to perform a piece chosen from the repertoire below on each of the instruments listed. Should you wish to perform something different to this list, please contact the Head of Department (Toby Kearney) prior to your audition to confirm whether your choice is suitable.

Snare Drum

• Jacques Delécluse - Douze Etudes pour Caisse-Claire
• Bent Lylloff Etude for Snare Drum - Arhus Etude no. 9
• ABRSM Grade 8 piece (new or old syllabus

Tuned Percussion

• 2 or 4 mallet piece of your choice of at least Grade 8 level

Timpani

• Nick Woud - Symphonic Studies for Timpani No 3, 22 or 25
• Hans-Jorg Bayer - Etude No. 5

Drum Kit (with playalong backing)

• David Garibaldi - The Code Of Funk
• John Riley - School days or October
• Troy Miller - Traveller
• Gordon Goodwin - Big Phat Big Band

If you don’t play drum kit, please prepare an additional contrasting piece on either snare drum, tuned or timpani.

During the audition we may ask you for:

• Sight reading - on snare drum or tuned percussion
• Rhythm and aural tests

Interview

The interview is a chance for you to have an informal conversation with us about your musical influences and aspirations. It’s an opportunity for us to ask you questions about your experiences, to find out what you can bring to the department and for you to ask any questions you have about the course.

If your application is submitted by video then you will be invited to a virtual interview.

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Audition requirements for Postgraduate Percussion Applicants

Warm-up

You will be allocated a room in the Percussion Suite in which to warm up for a period of 20 to 30 minutes before your audition.

Audition

You are expected to present a varied programme of approximately 30-40 minutes. This may include solo repertoire, orchestral excerpts and a collection of drum kit/world/rhythm percussion tracks. Please get in touch with the Head of Percussion (Toby Kearney) prior to your audition to discuss your ideas and the suitability of your programme. Below are two examples of suitable audition programmes:

Example A

Snare Drum

• Delecluse Study No. 9
• Joseph Tompkins Study No. 1
• Rimsky-Korsakov Scheherazade
• Rimsky-Korsakov Capriccio Espagnol
• Williams Star Wars

Xylophone

• Stravinsky Firebird
• Copland Appalachian Spring
• Gershwin Porgy & Bess

Timpani

• Tchaikovsky Symphony No 5
• Britten Storm from Sea Interludes
• A Nick Woud Study

Marimba

• Keiko Abe Variations on Japanese Children's Songs

Vibraphone:

• Joe Locke Highland

Example B

Drum Kit (with audio playalong)

• Paich (Toto) Rosanna
• Wonder Superstition
• Wilson (Porcupine Tree) Stars Die

Congas, Timbales, Cajon

• Puente Oye Como Va
• Cruz Zamba Malato

Marimba

• Bach Prelude from Cello Suite No. 1
• Piazolla/Cheung Verano Porteno

Vibraphone

• Rackipov Open Attic Window

Snare Drum

• Gerassimez Asventuras

During the audition we may ask you for:

• Sight reading - on snare drum or tuned
• Rhythm and aural tests

Interview

The interview is a chance for you to have an informal conversation with us about your musical influences and aspirations. It’s an opportunity for us to ask you questions about your experiences, to find out what you can bring to the department and for you to ask any questions you have about the course.

If your application is submitted by video then you will be invited to a virtual interview.

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Audition requirements for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Strings Applicants

Rehearsal

An official accompanist will be arranged for your audition and you will be given the opportunity to rehearse with them, but please note that rehearsal time will be limited to about 10 minutes. If you are bringing your own accompanist, you will be allocated a room so that you can rehearse with your accompanist for 25 minutes prior to your audition. Please inform us if you will be bringing your own accompanist.

Harp and Guitar (Classical) applicants will be allocated a room to warm-up in for a period of 25 minutes before your audition.

Audition

Candidates are asked to play a 10-15 minute programme. Please see our Audition Advice page for more detailed guidance to help you prepare.

Please see instrument-specific requirements below:

• Cello Candidates must perform two pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of their own choice. All candidates will be asked to prepare two major and two minor scales and arpeggios (three octaves). The audition will also include a short sight-reading test.
• Classical Guitar Candidates must perform two pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of their own choice. All candidates will be asked to prepare two major and two minor scales and arpeggios (two and three octaves). Any two digit right hand fingering will be asked plus i,m,a,m and either apoyando or tirando. The audition will also include a short sight-reading test.
• Double Bass Candidates must perform two pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of their own choice. All candidates will be asked to prepare two major and two minor scales and arpeggios (two octaves). The audition will also include a short sight-reading test.
• Harp Candidates must perform two pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of their own choice. All candidates will be asked to play scales and arpeggio in line with the Grade 8 ABRSM syllabus. Candidates may also be asked to sight read.
• Viola Candidates must perform two pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of their own choice. All candidates will be asked to prepare two major and two minor scales and arpeggios (three octaves). The audition will also include a short sight-reading test.
• Violin Candidates must perform two pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of their own choice. All candidates will be asked to prepare two major and two minor scales and arpeggios (three octaves). The audition will also include a short sight-reading test.

Interview

The panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences, your inspiration to be a musician and your career objectives.

This is also an opportunity for you to ask the panel questions about the department you hope to join and what life will be like as a musician in Birmingham. You may also be asked to play scales and sight read.

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Audition requirements for Undergraduate Historical Performance Applicants

Rehearsal

An official accompanist will be arranged for your audition and you will be given the opportunity to rehearse with them, but please note that rehearsal time will be limited.

If you are bringing your own accompanist, you will be allocated a room so that you can rehearse with your accompanist for 25 minutes prior to your audition. Please can you inform us if you will be bringing your own accompanist.

Audition

• Harpsichord Please perform three pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods, of your own choice. Candidates may also be asked to play scales (ABRSM Grade VIII standard) and sight read.
• Fortepiano Please perform three pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of your own choice. Candidates may also be asked to play scales (ABRSM Grade VIII standard) and sight read.
• Baroque Strings (violin, viola, cello, viol/viola da gamba) Please perform two movements from a late baroque sonata or suite (Bach, Corelli, Handel, etc), and one other contrasting free choice piece (or movement) from the seventeenth or eighteenth century. Transcriptions are acceptable for viola applicants. Candidates may also be asked to play scales (ABRSM Grade VIII standard) and sight read.
• Baroque Wind (flute, oboe, bassoon) Please perform two movements from a late baroque sonata or suite (Bach, Corelli, Handel, etc), and one other contrasting free choice piece (or movement) from the seventeenth or eighteenth century. Transcriptions are acceptable for viola applicants. Candidates may also be asked to play scales (ABRSM Grade VIII standard) and sight read.
• Recorder Please see Woodwind audition requirements.
• Plucked Strings (lute, theorbo, archlute) Please perform three pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of your own choice appropriate to your instrument.

Interview

The panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences, your inspiration to be a musician and your career objectives.

This is also an opportunity for you to ask the panel questions about your Department and what life will be like as a musician in Birmingham. You may also be asked to play scales and sight read during the virtual interview.

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Audition requirements for Postgraduate Historical Performance Applicants

Rehearsal

An official accompanist will be arranged for your audition and you will be given the opportunity to rehearse with them, but please note that rehearsal time will be limited.

If you are bringing your own accompanist, you will be allocated a room so that you can rehearse with your accompanist for 25 minutes prior to your audition. Please can you inform us if you will be bringing your own accompanist.

Audition

• Harpsichord Please present a varied programme of about 15 minutes’ duration of contrasting styles/periods. Candidates may also be asked demonstrate ability to play figured bass at sight.
• Organ Please see the Keyboard entry requirements.
• Fortepiano Please present a varied programme of about 15 minutes’ duration of contrasting styles/periods.
• Early Wind (baroque/classical flute, oboe, bassoon; classical clarinet) Please present a varied programme of about 15 minutes’ duration of contrasting styles/periods.
• Recorder Please see Woodwind audition requirements.
• Early Brass (natural/baroque trumpet, natural/hand horn, sackbut/early trombone, cornetto) Please present a varied programme of about 15 minutes’ duration of contrasting styles/periods.
• Plucked Strings (lute, theorbo, archlute) Please present a varied programme of about 15 minutes’ duration of contrasting styles/periods appropriate to your instrument(s).
• Early Strings (baroque/classical violin, viola, cello, viola da gamba, bass/violone) Please present a varied programme of about 15 minutes’ duration of contrasting styles/periods appropriate to your instrument(s).

Interview

The panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences, your inspiration to be a musician and your career objectives.

This is also an opportunity for you to ask the panel questions about your Department and what life will be like as a musician in Birmingham.

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Audition requirements for Undergraduate Vocal Applicants

Rehearsal

An official accompanist will be arranged for your audition and you will be given the opportunity to rehearse with them, but please note that rehearsal time will be limited to about 10 minutes.

If you are bringing your own accompanist, you will be allocated a room so that you can rehearse with your accompanist for 25 minutes prior to your audition. Please can you inform us by email if you will be bringing your own accompanist.

Audition

Please perform three classical art songs, arias or concert works from memory. At least one of these should be in a language other than English or Latin. You will be invited to choose your first piece and the panel will choose to hear another or extracts of others. Be prepared for the panel to workshop elements of your performance briefly with you. This is an informal way for them to get to know you better as a singer and performer. During the audition you might be offered a short piece to work on with your pianist. This will be viewed as a rehearsal or coaching rather than a performance.

Interview

At the end of your audition you will be invited to sit and chat with the panel about your journey as a singer so far, your influences and your aspirations. This is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you have about the Vocal Department and life as a student and musician in Birmingham.

Audition requirements for Postgraduate Vocal Applicants

Rehearsal

An official accompanist will be arranged for your audition and you will be given the opportunity to rehearse with them, but please note that rehearsal time will be limited to about 10 minutes.

If you are bringing your own accompanist, you will be allocated a room so that you can rehearse with your accompanist for 25 minutes prior to your audition. Please can you inform us by email if you will be bringing your own accompanist.

Audition

Please perform four classical art songs, arias or concert works from memory. At least two of these should be in a language other than English or Latin. You will be invited to choose your first piece and the panel will choose to hear another or extracts of others. Be prepared for the panel to workshop elements of your performance briefly with you. This is an informal way for them to get to know you better as a singer and performer. During the audition you might be offered a short piece to work on with your pianist. This will be viewed as a rehearsal or coaching rather than a performance.

Interview

At the end of your audition you will be invited to sit and chat with the panel about your journey as a singer so far, your influences and your aspirations. This is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you have about the Vocal Department and life as a student and musician in Birmingham.

Audition requirements for Undergraduate and Postgraduate Woodwind Applicants

Rehearsal

An official accompanist will be arranged for your audition and you will be given the opportunity to rehearse with them, but please note that rehearsal time will be limited to about 15 minutes.

If you are bringing your own accompanist, you will be allocated a room so that you can rehearse with your accompanist for 25 minutes prior to your audition. Please can you inform us by email if you will be bringing your own accompanist.

Audition

Undergraduate Woodwind candidates must perform two pieces (or movements) of different styles and periods of their own choice. Candidates will also be asked to play some scales and arpeggios in all major and minor keys and sight read.

Postgraduate Woodwind candidates Please present a varied programme of about 15 minutes’ duration which may be drawn from the concerto repertoire. Players of Orchestral Woodwind instruments should also prepare two contrasting orchestral excerpts.

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Interview

As part of your audition there will be an informal interview. The panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences, your inspiration to be a musician and your career objectives.

This is also an opportunity for you to ask the panel questions about your Department and what life will be like as a musician in Birmingham. If you are an undergraduate applicant, during your interview, as well as a selection of scales, we might ask you to play part of your audition piece(s) again. If you are a postgraduate applicant, we might ask you to play part of your audition piece(s) or orchestral extracts again.

This will be an informal opportunity for us to work together and get to know you better as a musician and performer.

Audition requirements for Theatre Doubling/Multi-instrument Applicants

Audition

Candidates are asked to present a programme totalling no more than 15 minutes duration. Repertoire will be welcomed from traditional classical lists but may also reflect the music theatre genre. Candidates will be expected to perform on each of their three chosen instruments and if possible, a piece should be included that demonstrates current doubling abilities.

During the audition, candidates will also be required to perform a varied selection of scales from a recognised Grade VIII (or equivalent) examination syllabus on your primary instrument and scales with up to three sharps and flats on your secondary instruments.

• Major scales
• Harmonic minor scales
• Melodic minor scales
• Major arpeggios
• Minor arpeggios

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Audition Recording

Applicants who wish to audition by recording should visit this webpage.

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Requirements for Experimental Performance

Portfolio requirements

A portfolio presented as one single pdf document. This portfolio should show us all the aspects of your artistic practice that you find important.

The single pdf document can contain descriptive or artistic text and images but also links to other websites (for example of video/audio recordings of your work).

The nature of the work submitted and its presentation is up to you. However, please bear in mind that we need to clearly understand your personal approach to creating performances and making art. Make thoughtful decisions about specific elements of your work that you absolutely want us to see, for example by highlighting important sections through smart video editing or giving us timecodes so that we can easily locate essential moments within the documentation.

The portfolio also must contain a motivational statement, explaining your reasons for applying. This can be delivered in the form of written text (max one side of A4) or via a link to a video or audio recording (or equivalent).

Interview

A discussion of your portfolio will form the basis of an interview of around 30 minutes duration.

The interview panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences and your inspiration to be an artist. This is also an opportunity for you to ask the panel questions about the department and what life will be like as an artist in Birmingham. There are likely to be two interviewers on the panel.

Please visit our Audition Advice page to help you prepare for your virtual audition and interview.

Requirements for Global Traditional Music

All candidates are required to perform two contrasting pieces or equivalent. These will be appropriate to the instrument and area of music that you are working in and should showcase your skills and understanding of the genre. For example, the panel would expect a singer-songwriter to perform two original songs, whereas a percussionist may choose to demonstrate a number of techniques in order to highlight particular aspects of their playing.

There will also be a brief interview in which the panel will be interested to hear you talk about your artistic influences, your inspiration to be a musician, and your career objectives.

The audition process for Global Traditional Music Performance is necessarily flexible, so if you would like to discuss in more detail what you should prepare, please don’t hesitate to contact Joe Broughton: joe.broughton@bcu.ac.uk