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School of Music, College of Arts & Sciences



Welcome » Future Students » Audition Repertoire


Audition Repertoire

What you should prepare varies for your instrument. Listed on the pages linked to below are the guidelines for each area.

Some Further Guidelines:

What to perform:

  • Consult the above lists for what to perform.
  • Choose music that is appropriate. Get advice. Your band director or private teacher will help.
  • Perform two selections of a contrasting nature. It may also be two sections of the same piece. Make sure one selection highlights your musicianship and the other your technique.
  • Don’t change your mind about your selections right before the audition!

What NOT to perform:

  • Old band, choir, or orchestra music.
  • Warm-up or method exercises.

What to do:

  • Present a professional image. You only get one chance to make a first impression!
  • Plan what you will say, do, and perform.
  • Show confidence.
  • Dress for the occasion. Men: wear coat and a tie. Women: wear professional outfits (e.g., knee-length dresses or slacks and a nice blouse or sweater.)
  • Be on time. Give yourself plenty of time to find your way around, relax, and warm up.
  • Make sure your equipment is working properly and that you have everything you need.
  • Always bring extra copies of your music. Make sure they are clean and unfolded.
  • Maintain a positive appearance even if the audition does not go well.

What NOT to do:

  • Do not wear shorts, jeans, ball caps, etc.
  • Do not make excuses or apologies for anything!
  • Do not draw attention to performance problems. (The committee may not notice!)

What to say:

  • Introduce yourself.
  • Look people in the eyes.
  • Tell the committee what you will perform. Correctly pronounce both the title and the composer.
  • Ask questions before you play only if the answer will directly affect your performance; if not, wait until after you have performed.
  • Thank the committee when you are finished.

What NOT to say:

  • “I have not warmed up.”
  • “I haven’t had a chance to practice.” (Then why are you there?)
  • “I didn’t know” or “Nobody told me…” (It is your job to find out.)
  • “I just got this instrument.”
  • “What should I play?”
  • “Do you have an instrument I can use?”
  • “I didn’t bring my music.”

Contact Us

University of Tennessee
School of Music
1741 Volunteer Blvd.
Knoxville, TN 37996-2600
Phone: 865-974-3241
Fax: 865-974-1941
Email: music@utk.edu