In addition to applying for admission to the University, all applicants interested in pursuing a music degree must perform an audition on their major instrument prior to their first semester enrolling in music courses. Schedule your audition by filling out the Online Audition Application. Audition applications are accepted at any time, but those wanting to secure an audition time on our designated audition date(s) should submit their application by Saturday, January 24, 2026. Auditions serve admission and placement purposes, and are also for talent scholarship consideration. For Aggie Marching Band information, visit the Aggie Marching Band page.
Application Requirements
Applicants with percussion as their primary instrument considering a Bachelor of Music in Music Education: Band emphasis, or a Bachelor of Music in Music Performance: Wind/Brass/Percussion emphasis, should prepare the following:
- Mallet Percussions: Demonstrate scales, play solo or etude, and sight-read
- Timpani: Demonstrate tuning, play solo or etude, and sight-read
- Snare Drum: Demonstrate knowledge of basic rudiments, play solo or etude, and sight-read
- Optional: The student can demonstrate various styles (e.g. swing, Latin, rock, funk, etc.) on drum set as well as sight-read a big band chart
- Saturday, February 14, 2026 in FAC 104
- Saturday, February 28, 2026 in FAC 104
Applicants wishing to submit a video audition will receive instructions after submitting the Audition Application.
Drumline Audition Requirements
- Prepare audition excerpts on instrument(s) of your choice (snare, tenors, bass drum, cymbals).
- In consideration of possible instrument access limitations, performance of audition excerpts on practice pads is acceptable.
- Record at a clean tempo with an audible metronome.
- Video should be head-to-toe at an angle that provides a clear view of your hands.
- Email video link to video to Dr. Jason Nicholson (jason.nicholson@usu.edu) by May 15 for consideration for the upcoming fall Marching Band season.
Download the Drumline Audition Packet
Recorded Auditions
Applicants wishing to submit a video audition should submit their video recording link directly to the application form.
Recorded Audition Best Practices
- Read audition requirements carefully. Select your repertoire with the help of your private instructor, or a trusted ensemble director at your school. If you have any questions about the audition requirements, contact our faculty.
- Recorded auditions must include both audio and video.
- Dress in audition appropriate attire, similar to what you would wear for a concert or recital. Remove any distractions from the background.
- Please be sure the lighting in your video is balanced. It may help to turn on lights or stand near a window. On the other hand, you may need to close window blinds or move away from bright lights.
- Your video frame should capture as much of your body and instrument as possible. Do your best to make sure your hands and face are visible.
- Do an audio test before you record your audition materials. Be sure to test various dynamic and pitch ranges. You may need to adjust your microphone placement in order to capture the best possible sound.
- Introduce yourself, your accompanist (if applicable), and the selections you are performing.
Music Therapy Percussion Video Audition Requirements
- Mallet Percussions: Demonstrate scales, play solo or etude, and sight-read
- Timpani: Demonstrate tuning, play solo or etude, and sight-read
- Snare Drum: Demonstrate knowledge of basic rudiments, play solo or etude, and sight-read
- Optional: The student can demonstrate various styles (e.g. swing, Latin, rock, funk, etc.) on drum set as well as sight-read a big band chart
Additional Contact Information
Jason Nicholson
Associate Professor | Drumline
Music (Percussion)