Music Program Audition Information
A short audition and interview* is required prior to acceptance into the music or music education program.
The Music Department receives many more applications than we are able to admit. Students are encouraged to apply to Buffalo State College as early as possible and once admitted academically, to schedule an audition as early as possible.
2009-2010 Music Audition Dates:
- November 7, 2009 (open house and spring 2010 auditions)
- February 19, 2010
- February 28, 2010 (New York City)
- March 5, 2010
- March 20, 2010
- April 9, 2010
- April 10, 2010 (open house and auditions)
Audition Fee: $15 for campus audition; $40 for NYC audition
*Interviews
All applicants will be interviewed. The interview may consist of questions regarding your musical background, academic experience, student/teacher interactions, and career intentions. In addition, applicants must provide a prepared essay about their most influential teacher at the interview. This person does not have to be a music teacher or a public school teacher. Memorable characteristics and educational experiences may be included.
Formatting
Font: Times or Times New Roman
Font size: 12
Spacing: Double
Length: 500-750 words
Instrumentalists should be prepared to play major scales up to four flats and four sharps, the chromatic scale, and a solo piece.
Pianists should be prepared to perform two contrasting works and all major scales (at least two octaves, hands together). For detailed piano audition requirements click here (PDF, 12KB).
Percussionists may not audition in NYC and should be prepared to demonstrate ability on
- snare drum
- marimba
- timpani
A short piece in each of these three areas by composers such as (but not limited to) Cirone, Benson, Musser, Bach, Goodman, Delecluse, and Peters is expected. Demonstration of the 26 standard rudiments, the long roll (pp-ff-pp), and major scales up to four flats and four sharps is expected.
Sight reading may be asked on any or all of the above-listed instruments.
Vocalists should be prepared to sing two art songs or arias, one in English and one in a foreign language.
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Auditioning individuals may be asked to sight-read.
Performance scholarships available.
To schedule an audition or a diagnostic test, call (716) 878-6401. Note: Students may only pick one audition date.
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For more information, contact:
Brass, guitar, bass:
Rick Fleming
fleminrl@buffalostate.edu
(716) 878-6504
Percussion:
Bradley J. Fuster
fusterbj@buffalostate.edu
(716) 878-6401
Piano:
Bryan W. Boyce
boycebw@buffalostate.edu
(716) 878-4100
Voice:
Thomas Witakowski
witakote@buffalostate.edu
(716) 878-6415
Woodwinds:
Crystal Reinoso
reinosch@buffalostate.edu
(716) 878-6414
