Submit an audition application! We’ll ask you some questions about audition scheduling, and then you’ll receive an email from musicadmissions@usu.edu with your audition time or instructions to arrange your audition appointment.
What if I’ve missed my chance to audition on the February dates?
Don’t worry! Most of our instrument areas continue accepting applications even after the February auditions have passed. Submit an audition application, then reach out to the professor over your primary instrument to arrange an audition appointment.
Keep in mind that auditioning late may affect your eligibility for scholarships, but don’t let this deter you from applying!
Can I get a music scholarship if I’m not going to be a Music Major?
It depends on your primary instrument.
Music talent scholarships may be available to non-music majors who play woodwind, brass, or percussion in USU ensembles and demonstrate exemplary ability on their performing instrument. Those who wish to apply must submit an audition application.
Non-music majors who play piano, strings, guitar, or voice are not eligible for music talent scholarships, but are welcome and encouraged to participate in ensembles and enroll in individual instruction.
Do I qualify for scholarships on my primary instrument if my intended major is Music Therapy?
Music Therapy majors may be considered for vocal scholarships. These are highly competitive, and have individual instruction and ensemble participation requirements.
Music Therapy majors are not eligible for piano, strings, or guitar scholarships.
How do I submit my recorded audition?
Submit an audition application and you’ll receive an email from musicadmissions@usu.edu with instructions for submitting your video! If you don’t see it in your inbox, make sure you’re checking the right email and look in your spam folder. And then if you still can’t find it, reach out to our office. We’ll confirm your application has been submitted and re-send the video instructions.
Is auditioning scary?
We know auditioning can be an intimidating process, but we want to try and make this a positive experience for you! If you’re feeling some anxiousness or nerves, here are some things that might help:
Choose your repertoire and start preparing as early as possible. The more time you give yourself to practice your selections, the more confident you’ll feel on audition day.
Practice in front of your family or friends. Performing your audition materials for other people is a great way to practice calming your nerves.
Contact the professor over your primary instrument to see if you can take a trial lesson. Meeting your professor beforehand may make you feel more at ease on audition day. You’ll find that the music faculty here at USU are not just amazing teachers, they’re really great people as well.
Practice mindful breathing. With a quick google search, you can find many resources with breathing techniques for performance anxiety. In advance of your audition day, find a mindful breathing technique or two that you like and make it a part of your practice routine. When audition day comes, you’ll be prepared with well-practiced grounding tools! About 5 minutes before your audition, take some time to breathe and get in a good headspace.
When it’s time to perform, focus on making beautiful music. Remember that nobody is there to criticize or judge you, and that all auditions are opportunities for growth and learning. Don’t think too hard about notes and rhythms – you’ve put in so much practice time already and it’ll come more naturally than you think. Your best performance is when you’re able to stay in the present moment and put your energy towards expression. Let the music flow!
Do I need to dress up for my audition?
Dress in appropriate audition attire, similar to what you would wear for a concert or recital. If you’re unsure what this looks like, consider the impression you want to make. We encourage applicants to arrive at their audition with a professional and tidy appearance.
Will I be able to warm up before my audition?
Practice rooms will be available for warm up. We recommend arriving at least 45 minutes before your audition time.
If you are auditioning on more than one instrument, we’ll try our best to schedule you a 45-60 minute gap between instruments.
Where are auditions held?
Auditions are held at the USU campus in Logan, UT in the Chase Fine Arts Center and the Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall.
Most campus parking lots (not including parking structures and resident lots) are free on weekends. Adhere to the posted signage in each lot. You can find campus parking maps on the USU Parking & Transportation webpage.
