Audition Frequently Asked Questions
The following are some additional questions you may have in preparing for your upcoming audition to the Conservatory of Music. Please contact music@wheaton.edu if your question is not answered here.
What should I wear for my audition?
You should dress professionally.
Should my music be memorized?
Memorization is required for all vocal and piano auditions and recommended for all other instruments. Please read the specific audition instructions for each instrument.
Do I need to provide an accompanist?
Instrumental auditions may be performed without an accompanist. Vocalists, recording your audition with live accompaniment is ideal. However, auditions with recorded or no accompaniment will be accepted.
Will there be any theory testing required?
Upon confirmation, after May 1, confirmed music majors (BA, BM, BME) will be given a music theory fundamentals assessment. Its purpose is to determine the readiness of our incoming students to begin Wheaton's Music Theory and Aural Skills class sequence. The test is pass/fail, and both accuracy and time will be considered in determining the results. A study guide is available.
Can I be connected to a current Conservatory of Music student?
Yes, please email us at music@wheaton.edu with your full name, high school graduation date, primary instrument, and email and/or cell phone and we will connect you with someone.
What can I expect during the follow-up virtual interview?
You can expect to have an interview with one or more Conservatory faculty following submission of your recorded audition. The goal of this time will be to 1) further evaluate each auditionee for admission; 2) allow time for prospects to get to know faculty and learn more about Wheaton.
Please bring your instrument or plan to set up where you can play (or sing) your primary instrument. The interview may include sight-reading/singing. Further demonstration of technique may also be requested. Time for Q&A will be offered, so bring any questions you have about music study, studios, teaching styles, repertoire, life at Wheaton, etc. Interviews will last between 10-20 minutes, depending on the area.