What should I prepare for the audition?
You will be asked to play a piece that best suits your strengths in terms of style, range and tempo. You will be asked to clap back a rhythm. You may be asked to play a scale. You will also be asked to do some sight reading.
Can you tell me more about the piece to play?
For Strings and Band auditions, you need to play one piece or study that shows your musical ability. For percussion auditions, you need to play one piece on snare and one piece on a mallet instrument. You may pick a piece off the ESA website if you wish.
Do I need an accompanist?
You will be playing your pieces unaccompanied.
What if I play piano, electric bass or guitar?
Students who have piano or electric bass proficiency will be considered under the assumption that they will be assigned to another orchestral or band instrument.
What are my chances of getting in?
Your chances of getting into the music program at ESA depend on a number of factors. First, the number of applicants changes from year to year, and your chances of getting in are dependant on the number of applicants. Further, less common instruments have a greater chance of gaining admission based on our instrumentation needs.
Most importantly, we look for potential. You do not necessarily need to be very advanced on your instrument, but if you demonstrate an ability to learn quickly, good musical instincts and a passion for the instrument, you have a great chance of getting into ESA.
What instruments are in greatest demand?
We are always in short supply of the following instruments: french horn, oboe, bassoon, trombone, viola.
How do I increase my chances of getting in?
Practice so that you can show us what you play best. It is more impressive to see a less challenging piece played confidently and accurately than a piece beyond your limits that you struggle through simply because you feel it is more impressive.
Finally, think about playing an ‘instrument in demand’. ESA is not the only institution that has need for these instruments; youth orchestras, university music programs, professional music organizations all have need for these less popular instruments. Playing one of these instruments could make you an ‘in demand’ player for the rest of your music making life!