UK Conservatory Audition Repertoire

[cmcquil]

Hello,

I've applied to various universities in my native England, and one conservatory. The audition guide for the latter specifies that performers must play two contrasting pieces that display their current level. (The performance cannot exceed ten minutes.)

I'm having a rough time trying to decide which pieces are interesting, not too overplayed, and indicative of my technique. A movement from a Beethoven sonata is always good, but many of them are incredibly overplayed (Pathetique, Moonlight, Tempest, Appassionata, etc.)

The first movement of the Op. 111 is one I am leaning towards; minus the repeat, it gives me time for the shorter second piece. I wonder if anyone could help me pick a second piece. The Op. 111 is very fiery and dramatic, so I though of something softer and more lyrical, probably with a major tonality.

The only things I can think of would be perhaps a piece by one of the Virginalists such as William Byrd or Orlando Gibbons...I have many editions of their pieces. Other things coming to mind are some of the Goldberg Variations or a Chopin etude.

As you can see, I'm really not sure! Any help is much appreciated.

Thank you,
cmquil

[brogers70]

If you are thinking of Byrd, how about "The Bells"? (It's in the Fitzwilliam Virginal Book) You could play as many of the variations as you can fit in the time allotted. It's relaxed sounding but has plenty of room for you to showcase your technique in a style complete unlike Beethoven.

[abbyes]

I think that either a Chopin etude or Byrd would work fine. Anyway, a more "calm" piece would contrast better with that Beethoven's Sonata. If you wanna give a try to some unknow composers, I suggest you ( I always suggest this piece, since it's an unknow jewel ) this piece, despite being on a minor key :

Anyway, almost any chopin etude will work fine for the audition. Maybe also a Rachmaninoff tableaux etude, like :

But I think that Byrd or Chopin would fit better to the program.

Best wishes !

[rubinsteinmad]

Do you prefer Byrd/Gibbons over Farnaby?