Music School Auditions Process

[b_nghiem]

Hi, I know that this is a frequent subject on the forum and I have gone over all (or at least most) of the previous posts that have to do with music schools, namely Curtis and Juilliard. I still have quite a few more years to prepare .
I am still not quite sure what is the exact process of auditioning: ex. one post mentioned that there were 30 applicants for Curtis who auditioned, nine of whom were some form of finalists, and then I think only 3 made it in. I guess that 1) not everyone who applies gets an audition (which is understandable) and that 2) there is an interview stage where those finalists must talk in front of the judges (about what?).
What I am basically getting at is if you are willing to share your knowledge and experience auditioning for or even attending music schools. Sorry if this is a terribly ignorant post and if I am asking you to breach confidentiality with the school , but all the help would be greatly appreciated!

[bachbrahmsschubert]

Welcome!

The way it usually works is, you send in a pre-screening recording along with your application. If they like what they hear then they invite you for a live audition. If you can't afford to attend the live audition, there are regional audition sites available. During your audition, you will perform live for several of the faculty members (you don't have to play exactly what you played for your pre-screening) and you will have an interview. The interview is standard; they want to get to know you. Just like you would interview for any job. You could be an incredibly brilliant pianist, but if your attitude sucks and your personality is trash, see ya!

You will also have placement tests. Theory, sight singing, dictation etc. These have little importance on whether you are accepted or not, but are used to put you into the correct class if accepted.

Schools like the ones you mentioned are in very high demand and may only have 2 spots open up a year. When you apply to schools, make sure you really broaden your selections. There are many great schools to choose from, don't play the name game.

Best wishes,

[b_nghiem]

Thank you so much! - and yes, I know it's not the school' s name, it's the teachers'

[gsmile]

When you apply to schools, make sure you really broaden your selections. There are many great schools to choose from, don't play the name game.

This should be a little motto for the hopefuls. You sound very experienced too.