Audition Information
AUDITION INFORMATION
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If you are an incoming or returning student interested in learning more about the major, ensembles, private lessons or academic classes please fill out our interest form.
Select the ensemble you are interested in joining.African Roots: Drumming, Singing, Moving
MUEN 2690/3690 African Roots: Drumming, Singing, Moving
Prof. Michelle KisliukNo Audition Required (just willingness to try new things, to focus/commit your attention, and have fun). Goal is to form a community expressed through polyphony and polyrhythm. Critically rooted in Ewe (Ghana/Togo), BaAka (Central African Republic) traditions; integrated percussion, dancing, and singing (try it all, forget what you think you are good at!). We will branch into some new creative territory as interest and abilities allow, bringing in the relevant social issues that surround us as we go. Those with previous experience should register for MUEN 3690, and those new to the material for MUEN 2690 (sections meet at the same time). For more information about this ensemble click here.
Baroque Orchestra -
Fall 2023: The Baroque Orchestra has openings for violin, viola, cello, bass, and keyboards. Auditions will be held on Thursday, August 24, between 6:00 and 7:00. Students can sign up for a time here. Prior experience on period instruments is not necessary. Students should prepare about 5 minutes of a solo they feel best displays their abilities, preferably written before 1750. For more information about this ensemble click here, or for question contact David Sariti (djs6k@virginia.edu)
Bluegrass Workshop
Fall 2023:
Bluegrass Workshop explores the performance of North American string band music, including bluegrass, old-time, and more. We cover playing, singing, improvising, recording, and songwriting/arrangement. Students should have basic facility on a string instrument. No other experience is required. The group meets Tuesday evenings. Those interested in enrolling should contact Richard Will. Cavalier Marching Band
Fall 2023:
The Cavalier Marching Band welcomes students from ALL majors! First-year CMB members must complete a virtual audition by July 31. All CMB audition information, include audition requirements and upload information, is available on the Cavalier Marching Band website. Navigate to “Members, Friends, and Family,” and then “Incoming 2023.” Email bands@virginia.edu with any questions. Audition review begins the week of July 5 and continue until July 31, with students receiving audition results from the directors via email.
Chamber Ensembles - Brass
Horn Ensemble
Fall 2022: Interested students should contact Cody Halquist (mec8pv@virginia.edu) All French horn players are welcome to participate in the Horn Ensemble. The group receives weekly instruction and will perform once during the semester in a live outdoor setting. Past students have improved both their ensemble and personal performance skills. For more information about the horn ensemble click here.
Trombone Ensemble
Fall 2022: Interested students should contact Nathaniel Lee. (nxl4e@virginia.edu)The Trombone Ensemble is comprised of talented musicians from all schools within the University of Virginia. The group meets once a week and performs original works, popular transcriptions, arrangements and student compositions. The Trombone Ensemble will perform one concert per semester and will hold additional optional performances throughout the UVA and Charlottesville community. For more information about this ensemble click here.
Trumpet Ensemble
Fall 2022: Interested students should contact Max McNutt (buj4ha@virginia.edu). The UVA Trumpet Ensemble welcomes students of all levels from all areas of study at the university. The group meets for weekly coaching sessions and presents a performance by the end of each semester. For more information about the ensemble click here.
Chamber Ensembles - Strings & Piano -
Fall 2023: for the Chamber Music Seminar
Returning students who wish to participate in a string and piano chamber ensemble should contact Prof. Adam Carter (acc8v@virginia.edu) by Sunday, August 27.
New participants who have not played in a group at UVa before can sign up for an audition time by contacting Prof. Adam Carter (acc8v@virginia.edu). Auditions will be Monday, August 28th @7pm (Room TBA). Please prepare a solo of about 5 minutes in length that you feel best displays your abilities.
Chamber Ensembles - Woodwind
Bassoon Ensemble
Fall 2023: The Rotunda Bassoon Ensemble performs at UVA each year on events such as Making Noise in the Library and Tea Time Recitals. Additionally, the group performs regularly at places in the community, such as the Crozet Mudhouse, and in area nursing homes through the "Nursing Homes Swing" organization. This ensemble explores, rehearses, and performs woodwind chamber music, including both standard and more obscure works. Focus is placed on developing chamber music playing skills, learning the tendencies of woodwind instruments, developing musicianship, and enjoying both making and sharing music! To audition, students are expected to prepare two minutes of music on repertoire of their choice, best representing their abilities. Past participants do not need to reaudition. For more information click here. Interested students should contact Elizabeth Roberts, (ear4x@virginia.edu) Senior Lecturer in Bassoon at UVA and Principal Bassoon of the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia.
Clarinet Ensemble
Fall 2023: The Clarinet Ensemble is open to all UVA students. The ensemble rehearses once a week, led by Jiyeon Choi, and performs at least once a semester. The ensemble studies various repertoire such as original composition for the clarinet ensemble, transcriptions from the orchestra/wind band/jazz literature. To audition, students should prepare 3 minutes of solo piece of their choosing that best demonstrates their abilities. Students who have previous participated in the ensemble do not need to audition. Interested students should contact Jiyeon Choi (jc8cg@virginia.edu) to set up an audition time.
Double Reed Ensemble
Fall 2023: Double Reed Ensemble provides an opportunity to read and rehearse a variety of double reed chamber pieces. At least one work is selected each semester for in-depth study and performance. The group meets for weekly coaching sessions led by Kelly Peral kpp7g@virginia.edu. To audition, please choose and prepare two minutes of repertoire to best represent your playing. Interested students should contact Kelly Peral for further information and to set up an audition time. Past participants do not need to reaudition. More about the Double Reed Ensemble.
Flute Ensemble
Fall 2023: The UVA Flute Ensemble is composed of talented student musicians from all areas of study. The group rehearses weekly to present a full recital at the end of each semester; these performances include music from all eras and styles in both larger flute ensemble and smaller chamber ensemble formats. To audition for the group, students are expected to prepare two minutes of music on repertoire of their choice, best representing their ability. Interested students should contact Kelly Sulick kas6am@virginia.edu with any questions and to set up an audition time. Students who have previous participated in the ensemble do not need to audition. For more information about the Flute Ensemble click here.
Mixed Woodwind Chamber Ensemble
Fall 2023: The Mixed Woodwind Chamber Ensemble performs at UVA each year on events, such as Making Noise in the Library and Tea Time Recitals. Additionally, the groups perform regularly at places in the community, such as the Crozet Mudhouse, and in area nursing homes through the "Nursing Homes Swing" organization. These ensembles explore, rehearse, and perform woodwind chamber music, including both standard and more obscure works. Focus is placed on developing chamber music playing skills, learning the tendencies of woodwind instruments, developing musicianship, and enjoying both making and sharing music! To audition, students are expected to prepare two minutes of music on repertoire of their choice, best representing their abilities. Past participants do not need to reaudition. For more information click here. Interested students should contact Elizabeth Roberts, (ear4x@virginia.edu) Senior Lecturer in Bassoon at UVA and Principal Bassoon of the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia.
Chamber Singers -
Auditions for the UVA University Singers & Chamber Singers
Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates
Sign up at 10to8.com/book/usingers/
Fall 2023 Auditions take place the first week of class, from August 21-26. Audition for UVA's flagship chorus! No prepared piece is required. Auditions are used to determine vocal range and quality, as well as sight-singing ability. Recent highlights include a performance with the Charlottesville Symphony in front of 20,000 at the UVA Bicentennial Arts Gala, a 2015 international concert tour to Europe, a 2017 performance for the creators of Les Misérables, the 2022 Arts on the Hill and Family Holiday Concert performances, and more than half a million views online. Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates, and sign-ups are available online at: 10to8.com/book/usingers/ You can also connect with us at: Website / Listen / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram For additional information on choral auditions, contact Rachel Bohannon at at jps5yx@virginia.edu.
For more info, you can also visit our new expanded website: https://usingers.virginia.edu/
Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia -
Fall 2023:
To download audition excerpts click on your instrument.
To sign up for an audition click on the date next to your instrument.
Instrument / excerpt Day Click on Date to Sign Up Time Room Violin Tuesday
Wednesday
6-8pm
6-9pm
Old Cabell Hall, Room B012
Viola Monday 8/21/23 6-8:20pm Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 Cello Monday 8/21/23 8:20-10pm Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 Bass Monday 8/21/23 6-8:20pm Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 Flute Monday 8/21/23 1-3pm Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 Oboe Tuesday 8/22/23 8-9pm Old Cabell Hall, Room B012 Clarinet Monday 8/21/23 11am-12pm Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 Bassoon Monday 8/21/23 3-4pm Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 Horn Wednesday 8/23/23 5-8pm Old Cabell Hall, Room 107 Trumpet Wednesday 8/23/23 5-8pm Old Cabell Hall, Room 107 Trombone Wednesday 8/23/23 5-8pm Old Cabell Hall, Room 107 Percussion Wednesday 8/23/23 8-10pm Old Cabell Hall, Room B018
If you are interested in auditioning for the Charlottesville Symphony, please fill out the audition interest form to receive more information.
For more information about this ensemble click here.
For audition guidelines please click here..
See the 2023-2024 Symphony Season.
*Additional audition times may be arranged in case of overflow or unavoidable conflicts.
CONCERTO COMPETITION:
The Charlottesville Symphony and the UVA Department of Music is hosting its first-ever concerto competition! Click here to learn more.
Concert Band -
Enrollment in the Concert Band is open to students of all majors and academic levels. Concert Band meets in the Spring Semester only, and performs one concert at the end of the term. While an audition is not required for enrollment, directors may hold chair placement hearings to determine appropriate part assignments.
The Concert Band’s membership is composed of students from every division and department within the University. Students appreciate the opportunity to practice and perform repertoire from a variety of genres and time periods as an outlet for creativity and expression. Past music selections have included standard band literature, pop music, and concertos with special guest artists.
For more information on the Concert Band, please contact director Andrew Koch via email at akoch@virginia.edu.
Jazz Ensemble -
Fall 2023 update:
Thank you for your interest in pursuing Jazz at UVA.
Auditions for the Jazz Ensemble and for the four jazz small groups take place in the Fall, on the first Thursday of Classes, at 7:30 pm, in room B18 of Old Cabell Hall.
Returning Jazz Ensemble members should come to this audition along with students auditioning for the first time. This is true of small group members, as well. Contact Jazz Ensemble Director, John D’earth, jed6p@virginia.edu., to discuss your interest in this, with ‘Jazz Ensemble’ in the subject line.
Jazz experience and improvisational skill are not requisites for playing jazz at UVA. The suggested guidelines, below, are there to show some of the skills a progressing jazz student acquires. But we are open to newbies who can play and want to play, especially classically trained students!
As the Jazz Ensemble/Performance Director I see my role as assisting each music student to find a solid individual path in music while here; one that will carry that player into the next phases of life with full access to their own musical identity.
See you soon!
John D'earth
Director of Jazz Performance
University of Virginia
jed6p@virginia.edu
Suggested Guidelines for the progressing jazz student:
Instrument
Audition
Trumpets, Saxophones, Trombones
Play one ballad and one bebop tune of your choice. If you choose to improvise, find a backing track for a blues or a simple standard like Autumn Leaves and blow. But, if you’d rather play on Giant Steps or Stablemates, have at it!
Piano
Play one ballad and one bebop tune of your choice. Include some soloing. Comp, unaccompanied, on a standard of your choice (swing) and a latin tune of your choice.
Guitar
Be prepared to comp (with and without backing track) and solo (with backing track) on:
1. Blues (preferably a “jazz” blues in Bb or F)
2. Autumn Leaves (or a similar standard)
3. Blue Bossa (or a similar Latin tune)
(If you can play the melody to your chosen tunes, please do.)
Bass
Walk and solo on a blues and on a standard, and play on a latin tune, all of your choice. Melodies welcome!
Drums
Demonstrate swing, latin, and funk feels. Solo over a song form of your choice.
Non-Standard Instruments
The jazz program will welcome auditions from instruments not necessarily associated with mainstream jazz: gayageum, strings, hand whistle, pedal steel, oboe, french horn, accordian, etc.
Jazz Small Groups
Please see Jazz Ensemble listing. Contact Mike Rosensky at mlr5q@virginia.edu for information about auditioning for the jazz small groups.
Jazz Improvisation
The Jazz Improvisation Workshop requires instructor permission. Request the class on SIS and feel free to contact the instructor, John D’earth, at jed6p@virginia.edu.
Mobile Interactive Computer Ensemble (MICE)
Fall 2022: Students interested in the Mobile Interactive Computer Ensemble (MICE) should enroll in the course, MUSI 4600. For more information about this ensemble click here
Percussion Ensemble
Fall 2023: Contact I-Jen Fang if4n@virginia.edu before the first class meeting to schedule an audition. The nature of the audition, types of music to be prepared, time, date, etc. will be discussed via e-mail. For more information about this ensemble click here.
Private Lesson Auditions - All Instruments EXCEPT Piano & Voice
Private Lesson registration Information. Private Lesson Faculty.
Instructors may require auditions. All students taking lessons through the Music Department for the first time must enroll for 2000-level lessons, a credit/no-credit (pass/fail) class that carries either 0.5 or 1 credit. Only students who have successfully auditioned for the 3000-level will be allowed to register for 3000-level study, which is a graded course (2.0 credits). If you have taken at least one semester of lessons with the Music Department and wish to audition for the 3000-level, inform your instructor as soon as possible so that an audition can be arranged before the registration period ends.
Private Lesson Auditions - PIANO
Classical Piano: Fall 2023: Sunday 8/27. Auditions are required for placement in one of our studios, and are normally held during the weekend following the first week of classes. For more detailed information and to register your interest in auditioning, please fill out the form at this link: https://bit.ly/uva-pianoJazz and Non-Classical Piano: Fall 2023: Contact Calvin Brown.
In Jazz and Nonclassical Piano we will: Study the masters; Learn standard jazz repertoire; Learn to play songs by ear; Learn about improvisation; Ideas for playing in group settings. If you have questions or want more informaton about Jazz and non-classical piano lessons please contact Calvin Brown (calvinebrown@gmail.com). More informaion about Calvin Brown.
Private Lesson Auditions - VOICE
Classical / Musical Theatre Voice:
The University of Virginia Department of Music holds placement auditions for study with members of the Classical / Music Theater Voice faculty. Students may request a specific teacher in the space provided on the audition form. (We do our best to honor all such requests as space is available.) Biographical listings for all voice faculty can be found at http://music.virginia.edu/faculty/lessons.
Contact Vocal Coordinator, Pamela Beasley at pbb2c@virginia.edu to secure an audition time. Auditions: Friday, August 25 beginning at 3:00pm. in Old Cabell Hall Room. 113. If you are unable to audition on this date, you may submit a video performance anytime between August 21-25. Please e-mail the link to your video audition to the address: pbb2c@virginia.edu.
What to sing at auditions: You should prepare a selection: an art song, aria, music theater selection, folk song, hymn or anything else you are comfortable singing. A pianist will be available for the auditions. Students who wish to use the audition pianist should bring proper printed sheet music to their auditions.
If you have any questions, please contact Pamela Beasley at pbb2c@virginia.edu
Jazz or Popular Voice: Fall 2023:
No audition is required - contact Stephanie Nakasian at nakasian@virginia.edu to schedule a mutually convienient timeslot for your virtual lessons. Vocalists will use the text "You already know how to sing: Voice lessons - Life lessons" (available at the UVA Bookstore or from Stephanie Nakasian's website). Once a student has selected their songs for their lessons, they have the choice to accompany themselves on guitar or piano, purchase a commercial track, or ask Ms. Nakasian to prepare tracks to accompany you. Ms. Nakasian intends to have a voice recital at the end of the semester.
University Singers -
Auditions for the UVA University Singers & Chamber Singers
Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates
Sign up at 10to8.com/book/usingers/
Fall 2023 Auditions take place the first week of class, from August 21-26. Audition for UVA's flagship chorus! No prepared piece is required. Auditions are used to determine vocal range and quality, as well as sight-singing ability. Recent highlights include a performance with the Charlottesville Symphony in front of 20,000 at the UVA Bicentennial Arts Gala, a 2015 international concert tour to Europe, a 2017 performance for the creators of Les Misérables, the 2022 Arts on the Hill and Family Holiday Concert performances, and more than half a million views online. Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates, and sign-ups are available online at: 10to8.com/book/usingers/ You can also connect with us at: Website / Listen / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram For additional information on choral auditions, contact Rachel Bohannon at at jps5yx@virginia.edu.
For more info, you can also visit our new expanded website: https://usingers.virginia.edu/
Wind Ensemble -
FALL 2023:
The Fall 2023 Wind Ensemble audition excerpts will be available in July. Auditions should be recorded by each student individually and submitted to the Wind Ensemble Audition Submission Form by Wednesday, August 23rd at 10 PM.
Wind Ensemble audition excerpts are selected from the upcoming semester's repertoire. Auditionees are encouraged to utilize recordings available on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, etc. to gain a deeper understanding of each excerpt. You are also encouraged to email the Director of Bands, Elliott Tackitt (etackitt@virginia.edu) with questions you may have about the audition process.
Audition Excerpts:
Alto Saxophone- Bass Clarinet
- Bass Trombone
- Bassoon
- Clarinet
- Euphonium
- Flute and Piccolo
- French Horn
- Oboe
- Percussion
- Tenor Saxophone
- Tenor Trombone
- Trumpet
- Tuba
For more information about this ensemble click here.
AFFILIATED GROUPS
Virginia Glee Club ** Fall 2023 UPDATE ** Auditions will be held August 24, 25 and 29
Love to sing? Looking for a place on Grounds to make friends and have fun? Come sing with us! The Virginia Glee Club is looking for tenor-bass singers for it’s 153rd season of Harmony, Love and Brotherhood at UVA. This season is full of exciting events including our Annual Dinner in the Rotunda, two Christmas Concerts and a Spring Break bus tour.
Rehearsals are held Tuesday and Thursday nights at 7:30 PM in Old Cabell Hall, Room B12. Auditions will be held August 24, 25 and 29. No need to stress out about the audition. Our Grammy award winning director, Frank Albinder, will lead you through the audition process and tell you more about the group.
For more information come find our table at the Student Activities Fair on August 21, stop by our table in Old Cabell Hall, or contact us at president@virginiagleeclub.org.
Virginia Women's Chorus ** Fall 2023 UPDATE **
Want to sing with awesome people who like having fun and producing excellent music? Audition for Vdubz, more formally known as the Virginia Women’s Chorus! Opportunities for performing include our Annual Candlelight Concert, our Annual Women Against Violence Concert, our Annual Spring Concert, and many more!
Auditions are quick and easy. To do so, sign up here (and walk-ins can be accommodated). Auditions will take place August 25 – September 3. They are not stressful and no prepared music is necessary. Sight singing is not a determining factor, but an excellent ear and intonation are.
The Chorus is the oldest music group for treble voices at UVA and sings a variety of classical and contemporary music. For the past 49 years, the Chorus has fostered a deep sense of community and fulfillment and continues to do so today.
For more information, visit virginiawomenschorus.org or email our vice president Aleah McGill at vwcvicepresident@gmail.com. We hope to hear from you soon!
A Community Affiliated Group (not a student group)
The Oratorio Society of Virginia 2023-24 Fall Auditions!
Wednesday, 9/6, 7-9:30p.m. & Thursday, 9/7 4-6:40 p.m. at the Municipal Arts Center, 1119 5th St SW, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Audition for The Oratorio Society, the longest-running community chorus in central Virginia. Rehearsals are held Monday evenings from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m at the Municipal Arts Center 1119 5th St SW, Charlottesville, VA 22902. More details are on our website https://www.oratoriosociety.org/ Join our chorus and become a member of a close-knit group dedicated to providing excellent and joyful music to our community. Our 56th season will feature Rutter’s Gloria with brass ensemble, music from the theater (opera, Broadway, operetta), and an all-Beethoven celebration of the 200th anniversary of the premiere of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP
Auditions typically consist of the following, with an accompanist present:
- Vocalizing to determine range and voice part
- A brief rhythmic sight-singing excerpt
- A brief melodic sight-singing excerpt
- Singing a prepared piece of your choosing, or a familiar song suggested by the director
**During auditions please give practice room priority to those students who are preparing for auditions.**
African Roots: Drumming, Singing, Moving
MUEN 2690/3690 African Roots: Drumming, Singing, Moving
Those with previous experience should register for MUEN 3690, and those new to the material for MUEN 2690 (sections meet at the same time). For more information about this ensemble click here.
Baroque Orchestra -
Fall 2023: The Baroque Orchestra has openings for violin, viola, cello, bass, and keyboards. Auditions will be held on Thursday, August 24, between 6:00 and 7:00. Students can sign up for a time here. Prior experience on period instruments is not necessary. Students should prepare about 5 minutes of a solo they feel best displays their abilities, preferably written before 1750. For more information about this ensemble click here, or for question contact David Sariti (djs6k@virginia.edu)
Bluegrass Workshop
Bluegrass Workshop explores the performance of North American string band music, including bluegrass, old-time, and more. We cover playing, singing, improvising, recording, and songwriting/arrangement. Students should have basic facility on a string instrument. No other experience is required. The group meets Tuesday evenings. Those interested in enrolling should contact Richard Will.
Cavalier Marching Band
Fall 2023:
The Cavalier Marching Band welcomes students from ALL majors! First-year CMB members must complete a virtual audition by July 31. All CMB audition information, include audition requirements and upload information, is available on the Cavalier Marching Band website. Navigate to “Members, Friends, and Family,” and then “Incoming 2023.” Email bands@virginia.edu with any questions. Audition review begins the week of July 5 and continue until July 31, with students receiving audition results from the directors via email.
Chamber Ensembles - Brass
Horn Ensemble
Fall 2022: Interested students should contact Cody Halquist (mec8pv@virginia.edu) All French horn players are welcome to participate in the Horn Ensemble. The group receives weekly instruction and will perform once during the semester in a live outdoor setting. Past students have improved both their ensemble and personal performance skills. For more information about the horn ensemble click here.
Trombone Ensemble
Fall 2022: Interested students should contact Nathaniel Lee. (nxl4e@virginia.edu)The Trombone Ensemble is comprised of talented musicians from all schools within the University of Virginia. The group meets once a week and performs original works, popular transcriptions, arrangements and student compositions. The Trombone Ensemble will perform one concert per semester and will hold additional optional performances throughout the UVA and Charlottesville community. For more information about this ensemble click here.
Trumpet Ensemble
Fall 2022: Interested students should contact Max McNutt (buj4ha@virginia.edu). The UVA Trumpet Ensemble welcomes students of all levels from all areas of study at the university. The group meets for weekly coaching sessions and presents a performance by the end of each semester. For more information about the ensemble click here.
Chamber Ensembles - Strings & Piano -
Fall 2023: for the Chamber Music Seminar
Returning students who wish to participate in a string and piano chamber ensemble should contact Prof. Adam Carter (acc8v@virginia.edu) by Sunday, August 27.
New participants who have not played in a group at UVa before can sign up for an audition time by contacting Prof. Adam Carter (acc8v@virginia.edu). Auditions will be Monday, August 28th @7pm (Room TBA). Please prepare a solo of about 5 minutes in length that you feel best displays your abilities.
Chamber Ensembles - Woodwind
Bassoon Ensemble
Fall 2023: The Rotunda Bassoon Ensemble performs at UVA each year on events such as Making Noise in the Library and Tea Time Recitals. Additionally, the group performs regularly at places in the community, such as the Crozet Mudhouse, and in area nursing homes through the "Nursing Homes Swing" organization. This ensemble explores, rehearses, and performs woodwind chamber music, including both standard and more obscure works. Focus is placed on developing chamber music playing skills, learning the tendencies of woodwind instruments, developing musicianship, and enjoying both making and sharing music! To audition, students are expected to prepare two minutes of music on repertoire of their choice, best representing their abilities. Past participants do not need to reaudition. For more information click here. Interested students should contact Elizabeth Roberts, (ear4x@virginia.edu) Senior Lecturer in Bassoon at UVA and Principal Bassoon of the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia.
Clarinet Ensemble
Fall 2023: The Clarinet Ensemble is open to all UVA students. The ensemble rehearses once a week, led by Jiyeon Choi, and performs at least once a semester. The ensemble studies various repertoire such as original composition for the clarinet ensemble, transcriptions from the orchestra/wind band/jazz literature. To audition, students should prepare 3 minutes of solo piece of their choosing that best demonstrates their abilities. Students who have previous participated in the ensemble do not need to audition. Interested students should contact Jiyeon Choi (jc8cg@virginia.edu) to set up an audition time.
Double Reed Ensemble
Fall 2023: Double Reed Ensemble provides an opportunity to read and rehearse a variety of double reed chamber pieces. At least one work is selected each semester for in-depth study and performance. The group meets for weekly coaching sessions led by Kelly Peral kpp7g@virginia.edu. To audition, please choose and prepare two minutes of repertoire to best represent your playing. Interested students should contact Kelly Peral for further information and to set up an audition time. Past participants do not need to reaudition. More about the Double Reed Ensemble.
Flute Ensemble
Fall 2023: The UVA Flute Ensemble is composed of talented student musicians from all areas of study. The group rehearses weekly to present a full recital at the end of each semester; these performances include music from all eras and styles in both larger flute ensemble and smaller chamber ensemble formats. To audition for the group, students are expected to prepare two minutes of music on repertoire of their choice, best representing their ability. Interested students should contact Kelly Sulick kas6am@virginia.edu with any questions and to set up an audition time. Students who have previous participated in the ensemble do not need to audition. For more information about the Flute Ensemble click here.
Mixed Woodwind Chamber Ensemble
Fall 2023: The Mixed Woodwind Chamber Ensemble performs at UVA each year on events, such as Making Noise in the Library and Tea Time Recitals. Additionally, the groups perform regularly at places in the community, such as the Crozet Mudhouse, and in area nursing homes through the "Nursing Homes Swing" organization. These ensembles explore, rehearse, and perform woodwind chamber music, including both standard and more obscure works. Focus is placed on developing chamber music playing skills, learning the tendencies of woodwind instruments, developing musicianship, and enjoying both making and sharing music! To audition, students are expected to prepare two minutes of music on repertoire of their choice, best representing their abilities. Past participants do not need to reaudition. For more information click here. Interested students should contact Elizabeth Roberts, (ear4x@virginia.edu) Senior Lecturer in Bassoon at UVA and Principal Bassoon of the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia.
Chamber Singers -
Auditions for the UVA University Singers & Chamber Singers
Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates
Sign up at 10to8.com/book/usingers/
Fall 2023 Auditions take place the first week of class, from August 21-26. Audition for UVA's flagship chorus! No prepared piece is required. Auditions are used to determine vocal range and quality, as well as sight-singing ability. Recent highlights include a performance with the Charlottesville Symphony in front of 20,000 at the UVA Bicentennial Arts Gala, a 2015 international concert tour to Europe, a 2017 performance for the creators of Les Misérables, the 2022 Arts on the Hill and Family Holiday Concert performances, and more than half a million views online. Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates, and sign-ups are available online at: 10to8.com/book/usingers/ You can also connect with us at: Website / Listen / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram For additional information on choral auditions, contact Rachel Bohannon at at jps5yx@virginia.edu.
For more info, you can also visit our new expanded website: https://usingers.virginia.edu/
Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia -
Fall 2023:
To download audition excerpts click on your instrument.
To sign up for an audition click on the date next to your instrument.
| Instrument / excerpt | Day | Click on Date to Sign Up | Time | Room |
| Violin | Tuesday Wednesday | 6-8pm 6-9pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room B012 | |
| Viola | Monday | 8/21/23 | 6-8:20pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 |
| Cello | Monday | 8/21/23 | 8:20-10pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 |
| Bass | Monday | 8/21/23 | 6-8:20pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 |
| Flute | Monday | 8/21/23 | 1-3pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 |
| Oboe | Tuesday | 8/22/23 | 8-9pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room B012 |
| Clarinet | Monday | 8/21/23 | 11am-12pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 |
| Bassoon | Monday | 8/21/23 | 3-4pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room 113 |
| Horn | Wednesday | 8/23/23 | 5-8pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room 107 |
| Trumpet | Wednesday | 8/23/23 | 5-8pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room 107 |
| Trombone | Wednesday | 8/23/23 | 5-8pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room 107 |
| Percussion | Wednesday | 8/23/23 | 8-10pm | Old Cabell Hall, Room B018 |
If you are interested in auditioning for the Charlottesville Symphony, please fill out the audition interest form to receive more information.
For more information about this ensemble click here.
For audition guidelines please click here..
See the 2023-2024 Symphony Season.
*Additional audition times may be arranged in case of overflow or unavoidable conflicts.
CONCERTO COMPETITION:
The Charlottesville Symphony and the UVA Department of Music is hosting its first-ever concerto competition! Click here to learn more.
Concert Band -
Enrollment in the Concert Band is open to students of all majors and academic levels. Concert Band meets in the Spring Semester only, and performs one concert at the end of the term. While an audition is not required for enrollment, directors may hold chair placement hearings to determine appropriate part assignments.
The Concert Band’s membership is composed of students from every division and department within the University. Students appreciate the opportunity to practice and perform repertoire from a variety of genres and time periods as an outlet for creativity and expression. Past music selections have included standard band literature, pop music, and concertos with special guest artists.
For more information on the Concert Band, please contact director Andrew Koch via email at akoch@virginia.edu.
Jazz Ensemble -
Fall 2023 update:
Thank you for your interest in pursuing Jazz at UVA.
Auditions for the Jazz Ensemble and for the four jazz small groups take place in the Fall, on the first Thursday of Classes, at 7:30 pm, in room B18 of Old Cabell Hall.
Returning Jazz Ensemble members should come to this audition along with students auditioning for the first time. This is true of small group members, as well. Contact Jazz Ensemble Director, John D’earth, jed6p@virginia.edu., to discuss your interest in this, with ‘Jazz Ensemble’ in the subject line.
Jazz experience and improvisational skill are not requisites for playing jazz at UVA. The suggested guidelines, below, are there to show some of the skills a progressing jazz student acquires. But we are open to newbies who can play and want to play, especially classically trained students!
As the Jazz Ensemble/Performance Director I see my role as assisting each music student to find a solid individual path in music while here; one that will carry that player into the next phases of life with full access to their own musical identity.
See you soon!
John D'earth
Director of Jazz Performance
University of Virginia
jed6p@virginia.edu
Suggested Guidelines for the progressing jazz student:
Instrument | Audition |
Trumpets, Saxophones, Trombones | Play one ballad and one bebop tune of your choice. If you choose to improvise, find a backing track for a blues or a simple standard like Autumn Leaves and blow. But, if you’d rather play on Giant Steps or Stablemates, have at it! |
Piano | Play one ballad and one bebop tune of your choice. Include some soloing. Comp, unaccompanied, on a standard of your choice (swing) and a latin tune of your choice. |
Guitar | Be prepared to comp (with and without backing track) and solo (with backing track) on: 1. Blues (preferably a “jazz” blues in Bb or F) |
Bass | Walk and solo on a blues and on a standard, and play on a latin tune, all of your choice. Melodies welcome! |
Drums | Demonstrate swing, latin, and funk feels. Solo over a song form of your choice. |
Non-Standard Instruments | The jazz program will welcome auditions from instruments not necessarily associated with mainstream jazz: gayageum, strings, hand whistle, pedal steel, oboe, french horn, accordian, etc. |
Jazz Small Groups
Please see Jazz Ensemble listing. Contact Mike Rosensky at mlr5q@virginia.edu for information about auditioning for the jazz small groups.
Jazz Improvisation
Mobile Interactive Computer Ensemble (MICE)
Fall 2022: Students interested in the Mobile Interactive Computer Ensemble (MICE) should enroll in the course, MUSI 4600. For more information about this ensemble click here
Percussion Ensemble
Fall 2023: Contact I-Jen Fang if4n@virginia.edu before the first class meeting to schedule an audition. The nature of the audition, types of music to be prepared, time, date, etc. will be discussed via e-mail. For more information about this ensemble click here.
Private Lesson Auditions - All Instruments EXCEPT Piano & Voice
Private Lesson registration Information. Private Lesson Faculty.
Instructors may require auditions. All students taking lessons through the Music Department for the first time must enroll for 2000-level lessons, a credit/no-credit (pass/fail) class that carries either 0.5 or 1 credit. Only students who have successfully auditioned for the 3000-level will be allowed to register for 3000-level study, which is a graded course (2.0 credits). If you have taken at least one semester of lessons with the Music Department and wish to audition for the 3000-level, inform your instructor as soon as possible so that an audition can be arranged before the registration period ends.
Private Lesson Auditions - PIANO
Jazz and Non-Classical Piano: Fall 2023: Contact Calvin Brown.
In Jazz and Nonclassical Piano we will: Study the masters; Learn standard jazz repertoire; Learn to play songs by ear; Learn about improvisation; Ideas for playing in group settings. If you have questions or want more informaton about Jazz and non-classical piano lessons please contact Calvin Brown (calvinebrown@gmail.com). More informaion about Calvin Brown.
Private Lesson Auditions - VOICE
Classical / Musical Theatre Voice:
The University of Virginia Department of Music holds placement auditions for study with members of the Classical / Music Theater Voice faculty. Students may request a specific teacher in the space provided on the audition form. (We do our best to honor all such requests as space is available.) Biographical listings for all voice faculty can be found at http://music.virginia.edu/faculty/lessons.
Contact Vocal Coordinator, Pamela Beasley at pbb2c@virginia.edu to secure an audition time. Auditions: Friday, August 25 beginning at 3:00pm. in Old Cabell Hall Room. 113. If you are unable to audition on this date, you may submit a video performance anytime between August 21-25. Please e-mail the link to your video audition to the address: pbb2c@virginia.edu.
What to sing at auditions: You should prepare a selection: an art song, aria, music theater selection, folk song, hymn or anything else you are comfortable singing. A pianist will be available for the auditions. Students who wish to use the audition pianist should bring proper printed sheet music to their auditions.
If you have any questions, please contact Pamela Beasley at pbb2c@virginia.edu
Jazz or Popular Voice: Fall 2023:
No audition is required - contact Stephanie Nakasian at nakasian@virginia.edu to schedule a mutually convienient timeslot for your virtual lessons. Vocalists will use the text "You already know how to sing: Voice lessons - Life lessons" (available at the UVA Bookstore or from Stephanie Nakasian's website). Once a student has selected their songs for their lessons, they have the choice to accompany themselves on guitar or piano, purchase a commercial track, or ask Ms. Nakasian to prepare tracks to accompany you. Ms. Nakasian intends to have a voice recital at the end of the semester.
University Singers -
Auditions for the UVA University Singers & Chamber Singers
Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates
Sign up at 10to8.com/book/usingers/
Fall 2023 Auditions take place the first week of class, from August 21-26. Audition for UVA's flagship chorus! No prepared piece is required. Auditions are used to determine vocal range and quality, as well as sight-singing ability. Recent highlights include a performance with the Charlottesville Symphony in front of 20,000 at the UVA Bicentennial Arts Gala, a 2015 international concert tour to Europe, a 2017 performance for the creators of Les Misérables, the 2022 Arts on the Hill and Family Holiday Concert performances, and more than half a million views online. Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates, and sign-ups are available online at: 10to8.com/book/usingers/ You can also connect with us at: Website / Listen / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram For additional information on choral auditions, contact Rachel Bohannon at at jps5yx@virginia.edu.
For more info, you can also visit our new expanded website: https://usingers.virginia.edu/
Wind Ensemble -
FALL 2023:
The Fall 2023 Wind Ensemble audition excerpts will be available in July. Auditions should be recorded by each student individually and submitted to the Wind Ensemble Audition Submission Form by Wednesday, August 23rd at 10 PM.
Wind Ensemble audition excerpts are selected from the upcoming semester's repertoire. Auditionees are encouraged to utilize recordings available on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, etc. to gain a deeper understanding of each excerpt. You are also encouraged to email the Director of Bands, Elliott Tackitt (etackitt@virginia.edu) with questions you may have about the audition process.
Audition Excerpts:
- Bass Clarinet
- Bass Trombone
- Bassoon
- Clarinet
- Euphonium
- Flute and Piccolo
- French Horn
- Oboe
- Percussion
- Tenor Saxophone
- Tenor Trombone
- Trumpet
- Tuba
For more information about this ensemble click here.
AFFILIATED GROUPS
Virginia Glee Club ** Fall 2023 UPDATE ** Auditions will be held August 24, 25 and 29
Love to sing? Looking for a place on Grounds to make friends and have fun? Come sing with us! The Virginia Glee Club is looking for tenor-bass singers for it’s 153rd season of Harmony, Love and Brotherhood at UVA. This season is full of exciting events including our Annual Dinner in the Rotunda, two Christmas Concerts and a Spring Break bus tour.
Rehearsals are held Tuesday and Thursday nights at 7:30 PM in Old Cabell Hall, Room B12. Auditions will be held August 24, 25 and 29. No need to stress out about the audition. Our Grammy award winning director, Frank Albinder, will lead you through the audition process and tell you more about the group.
For more information come find our table at the Student Activities Fair on August 21, stop by our table in Old Cabell Hall, or contact us at president@virginiagleeclub.org.
Virginia Women's Chorus ** Fall 2023 UPDATE **
Want to sing with awesome people who like having fun and producing excellent music? Audition for Vdubz, more formally known as the Virginia Women’s Chorus! Opportunities for performing include our Annual Candlelight Concert, our Annual Women Against Violence Concert, our Annual Spring Concert, and many more!
Auditions are quick and easy. To do so, sign up here (and walk-ins can be accommodated). Auditions will take place August 25 – September 3. They are not stressful and no prepared music is necessary. Sight singing is not a determining factor, but an excellent ear and intonation are.
The Chorus is the oldest music group for treble voices at UVA and sings a variety of classical and contemporary music. For the past 49 years, the Chorus has fostered a deep sense of community and fulfillment and continues to do so today.
For more information, visit virginiawomenschorus.org or email our vice president Aleah McGill at vwcvicepresident@gmail.com. We hope to hear from you soon!
A Community Affiliated Group (not a student group)
The Oratorio Society of Virginia 2023-24 Fall Auditions!
Wednesday, 9/6, 7-9:30p.m. & Thursday, 9/7 4-6:40 p.m. at the Municipal Arts Center, 1119 5th St SW, Charlottesville, VA 22902
Audition for The Oratorio Society, the longest-running community chorus in central Virginia. Rehearsals are held Monday evenings from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m at the Municipal Arts Center 1119 5th St SW, Charlottesville, VA 22902. More details are on our website https://www.oratoriosociety.org/ Join our chorus and become a member of a close-knit group dedicated to providing excellent and joyful music to our community. Our 56th season will feature Rutter’s Gloria with brass ensemble, music from the theater (opera, Broadway, operetta), and an all-Beethoven celebration of the 200th anniversary of the premiere of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP
Auditions typically consist of the following, with an accompanist present:
- Vocalizing to determine range and voice part
- A brief rhythmic sight-singing excerpt
- A brief melodic sight-singing excerpt
- Singing a prepared piece of your choosing, or a familiar song suggested by the director