Choose and Document Repertoire
Meet the specification first
- Before selecting favorites, map each required category to a compliant work or excerpt. Verify movements, editions, cuts, keys, languages and whether transcriptions are accepted.
Balance contrast and command
- Choose works that reveal different strengths without placing every piece at the edge of technical reliability. Contrast may involve period, character, tempo, articulation or expressive language.
Check the whole program
- Estimate total duration, difficult transitions, accompaniment rehearsal needs and physical demands. Prepare likely requested excerpts, not only full-length run-throughs.
Document your choices
- For each selection record composer, title, movement, key, edition, approximate duration, memorization requirement, accompaniment and one musical objective.
Other chapters: Read the Actual Requirements · Build a Realistic Calendar · Practice for Accuracy · Develop Your Interpretation · Train Sight-Reading · Strengthen Ear and Theory · Improvise and Collaborate · Make a Prescreen Recording · Prepare for the Interview · Run a Mock Audition · Plan the Audition Day · Use Feedback Well · Your Instrument or Pathway · Worksheets and Rubrics
These exercises are independent practice, not official audition materials, and they do not guarantee admission. Always follow the institution's current published requirements. Requirements differ between schools and change each year. Check the school's current published list.
Open the Audition Preparation Handbook →