Audition Information
AUDITION INFORMATION
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If you are an incoming or returning student interested in learning more about the major, ensembles, lessons or classes please fill out our interest form.
Select the ensemble you are interested in joining.African Music and Dance Ensemble
MUEN 2690/3690 African Music and Dance Ensemble
Prof. Michelle KisliukFall 2022 update: Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:00-5:30. No 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 - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
Spring 2023: The Baroque Orchestra has openings for violin, viola, cello, and keyboards. Students interested in auditioning should contact David Sariti (djs6k@virginia.edu).to arrange a time. 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. Bluegrass Workshop
Fall 2022:
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. Depending on UVA COVID policy for Fall 2022, the course will meet in-person or with a mixture of in-person and online sessions. Those interested in enrolling should contact Richard Will. Cavalier Marching Band
Fall 2022:
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 2022.” 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. 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 - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
Spring 2023: for the Chamber Music Seminar
Returning students who wish to participate in a string and piano chamber ensemble should contact Prof. Daniel Sender (dls8kb@virginia.edu) by Sunday, January 15.
Students who have not played before can sign up for an audition slot on a sheet which will be placed in the lobby several days prior to auditions on Tuesday, January 17, between 5:30 and 7:00. Students should prepare a solo of about 5 minutes in length that they feel best displays their abilities. Sight-reading may also be asked.
Chamber Ensembles - Woodwind
Bassoon Ensemble
Fall 2022: 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, Senior Lecturer in Bassoon at UVA and Principal Bassoon of the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia.
Clarinet Ensemble
Fall 2022: The Clarinet Ensemble is open to all UVA students. The ensemble rehearses once a week, led by Dr. 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 Dr. Choi (jc8cg@virginia.edu) to set up an audition time.
Double Reed Ensemble
Fall 2022: 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. 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.
Flute Ensemble
Fall 2022: 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 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 2022: 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, Senior Lecturer in Bassoon at UVA and Principal Bassoon of the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia.
Chamber Singers - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
Spring 2023 Update
Auditions for the UVA University Singers & Chamber Singers
Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates
Sign up at 10to8.com/book/usingers/
Spring 2023 Auditions take place the first week of class, from January 17-23.
Audition for UVA's select chamber chorus! The group performs a wide range of a cappella and accompanied repertoire from the Renaissance to George Gershwin, Ben Folds, and Eric Whitacre, and has sung for Philip Glass and the Tallis Scholars, as well as in a collaborative concert with 5 other universities at the Strathmore Music Center. Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates, and sign-ups are available online at: 10to8.com/book/usingers/ (Those interested in Chamber Singers should sign up to audition for The University Singers – see also the University Singers audition listing.)
For more information, visit our Website and Facebook for updates. For additional information on choral auditions, contact Andrea Tache Lopez at amt6vu@virginia.edu
Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia - ** NO SPRING 2023 AUDITIONS **
Fall 2022: (last updated 7/21/22)
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
113 Old Cabell Hall
B012 Old Cabell Hall
Viola Monday 8/22/22 6-8:20pm 113 Old Cabell Hall Cello Monday 8/22/22 8:20-10pm 113 Old Cabell Hall Bass Monday 8/22/22 6-8:20pm 113 Old Cabell Hall Flute Monday 8/22/22 1-3pm 113 Old Cabell Hall Oboe Tuesday 8/23/22 8-9pm 113 Old Cabell Hall Clarinet Monday 8/22/22 11am-12pm 113 Old Cabell Hall Bassoon Monday 8/22/22 3-4pm 113 Old Cabell Hall Horn Wednesday 8/24/22 5-8pm 107 Old Cabell Hall Trumpet Wednesday 8/24/22 5-8pm 107 Old Cabell Hall Trombone Wednesday 8/24/22 5-8pm 107 Old Cabell Hall Percussion Wednesday 8/24/22 8-10pm B018 Old Cabell Hall
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.
Our practice modules are not scheduled to be open on nights or weekends until classes begin, but to accommodate those who need to practice for their early symphony auditions, The Charlottesville Symphony Society has arranged and paid for staffing so the practice modules will be open on Sunday afternoon, August 21, from 1-5pm and Monday night, August 22nd from 5-9pm to students preparing for their symphony auditions. Online reservations will not be available, but you will be able to check-in at the front desk during these times.
See the 2022-2023 Symphony Season.
Members of the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia, as well as extra and substitute musicians, are subject to COVID-related health and safety policies as deemed necessary by the venues in which the orchestra performs. These may include, but are not limited to, requirements for vaccination, testing and masking.
*Additional audition times may be arranged in case of overflow or unavoidable conflicts.
Concert Band - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
Spring 2023 update - Enrollment in the Concert Band is open to students of all majors and academic levels. Students interested in participating in the Concert Band are encouraged to complete the Spring 2023 Wind Ensemble and Concert Band Interest Form.
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 the directors via email at bands@virginia.edu.
Jazz Ensemble - ** NO SPRING 2023 AUDITIONS **
Fall 2022 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.
We are encouraging musicians to come forward if they are interested in re-auditioning, or in auditioning for the first time. The band is interested in developing satellite groups of musicians (strings, woodwinds, for example) to participate in the music. 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 2022: Contact I-Jen Fang 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 2022: 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 2022: 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:
Fall 2022:
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 will occur on August 26 from 3-5 in OCH Room TBA. 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 above address.
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. If you have any questions, please contact Pamela Beasley at pbb2c@virginia.edu
Jazz or Popular Voice: Fall 2022:
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 - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
Spring 2023 Update
Auditions for the UVA University Singers & Chamber Singers
Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates
Sign up at 10to8.com/book/usingers/
Spring 2023 Auditions take place the first week of class, from January 17-23.
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 Andrea Tache Lopez at amt6vu@virginia.edu.
For more info, you can also visit our new expanded website: https://usingers.virginia.edu/
Wind Ensemble - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
SPRING 2023:
Enrollment in the Wind Ensemble is open to students of all majors and academic levels by audition. Students interested in participating in the Wind Ensemble are encouraged to complete the Spring 2023 Wind Ensemble and Concert Band Interest Form.
Woodwind and Brass players audition by recording, submitted by January 19th at 10 PM. Percussionists audition in-person at the Hunter Smith Band Building on Saturday, January 21, at 1:00 PM.
All interested musicians should prepare 3–5 minutes of music for their audition. It is recommended that your audition include two contrasting excerpts; one which highlights your technical performance ability and one which highlights your lyrical performance ability. Percussionists: please prepare one snare drum excerpt as well as one mallet excerpt (2- or 4-mallets).
Recorded auditions by woodwind and brass players may be submitted through the Wind Ensemble Audition Form. Please upload and submit your audition by 10 pm on Thursday, January 19.
The first Wind Ensemble rehearsal will be held in the Hunter Smith Band Building on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, starting at 4:00 PM.
For more information about this ensemble click here.
AFFILIATED GROUPS
Virginia Glee Club ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE ** January 24th, 26th & 27th
Love to sing? Need travel plans for Spring Break? Come sing and travel with us! The Virginia Glee Club is seeking tenor-bass singers for its Spring 2023 season. This spring we will be embarking on a tour of England and Wales, with its long legacy of tenor-bass choral singing, March 3 - 12, 2023. Stops will include Manchester, Cardiff and London. We will conclude our 152nd season at the University of Virginia with our Finals Concert in May. Auditions will be held January 24, 26 & 27, 2023. No need to bring any prepared pieces for the audition. Our director, Frank Albinder, will lead you through the audition process and tell you more. Any auditionees interested in participating in our England and Wales tour must have a valid passport, but all tenor-bass singers are welcome to join this spring, even if you can't make it on tour. Glee Club rehearses Tuesday and Thursday nights from 7:30 to 9:30 PM in Old Cabell Hall. For more information, please contact us at manager@virginiagleeclub.org or visit our website VirginiaGleeClub.org.
Virginia Women's Chorus ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
Want to sing with an awesome community of folks who like to have fun while producing excellent music? Audition for the Vdubz, more formally known as the Virginia Women’s Chorus. Opportunities for performing include Disney over spring break, Candlelight Concerts in Dec., Women Against Violence a cappella night, and a fun Spring concert and many more! Check out our YouTube channel and our most popular video, And So It Goes!
Auditions are quick and easy and sight-reading is not a determining factor. Sign up here (and walk-ins can be accommodated).
Virginia Women’s Chorus auditions will take place January 20-29. 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, contemporary and diverse music from the challenging choral literature for women’s voices. As it has for 48 years, the Chorus fosters a deep sense of connectedness among our singer.
Visit virginiawomenschorus.org to sign up for an audition or email our vice president Aleah McGill at vwcvicepresident@gmail.com for more information. We hope to hear from you soon!!!
**During auditions please give practice room priority to those students who are preparing for auditions.**
African Music and Dance Ensemble
MUEN 2690/3690 African Music and Dance Ensemble
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 - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
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. Depending on UVA COVID policy for Fall 2022, the course will meet in-person or with a mixture of in-person and online sessions. Those interested in enrolling should contact Richard Will.
Cavalier Marching Band
Fall 2022:
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 2022.” 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. 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 - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
Spring 2023: for the Chamber Music Seminar
Returning students who wish to participate in a string and piano chamber ensemble should contact Prof. Daniel Sender (dls8kb@virginia.edu) by Sunday, January 15.
Students who have not played before can sign up for an audition slot on a sheet which will be placed in the lobby several days prior to auditions on Tuesday, January 17, between 5:30 and 7:00. Students should prepare a solo of about 5 minutes in length that they feel best displays their abilities. Sight-reading may also be asked.
Chamber Ensembles - Woodwind
Bassoon Ensemble
Fall 2022: 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, Senior Lecturer in Bassoon at UVA and Principal Bassoon of the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia.
Clarinet Ensemble
Fall 2022: The Clarinet Ensemble is open to all UVA students. The ensemble rehearses once a week, led by Dr. 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 Dr. Choi (jc8cg@virginia.edu) to set up an audition time.
Double Reed Ensemble
Fall 2022: 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. 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.
Flute Ensemble
Fall 2022: 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 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 2022: 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, Senior Lecturer in Bassoon at UVA and Principal Bassoon of the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia.
Chamber Singers - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
Spring 2023 Update
Auditions for the UVA University Singers & Chamber Singers
Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates
Sign up at 10to8.com/book/usingers/
Spring 2023 Auditions take place the first week of class, from January 17-23.
Audition for UVA's select chamber chorus! The group performs a wide range of a cappella and accompanied repertoire from the Renaissance to George Gershwin, Ben Folds, and Eric Whitacre, and has sung for Philip Glass and the Tallis Scholars, as well as in a collaborative concert with 5 other universities at the Strathmore Music Center. Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates, and sign-ups are available online at: 10to8.com/book/usingers/ (Those interested in Chamber Singers should sign up to audition for The University Singers – see also the University Singers audition listing.)
For more information, visit our Website and Facebook for updates. For additional information on choral auditions, contact Andrea Tache Lopez at amt6vu@virginia.edu
Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia - ** NO SPRING 2023 AUDITIONS **
Fall 2022: (last updated 7/21/22)
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 | 113 Old Cabell Hall B012 Old Cabell Hall | |
| Viola | Monday | 8/22/22 | 6-8:20pm | 113 Old Cabell Hall |
| Cello | Monday | 8/22/22 | 8:20-10pm | 113 Old Cabell Hall |
| Bass | Monday | 8/22/22 | 6-8:20pm | 113 Old Cabell Hall |
| Flute | Monday | 8/22/22 | 1-3pm | 113 Old Cabell Hall |
| Oboe | Tuesday | 8/23/22 | 8-9pm | 113 Old Cabell Hall |
| Clarinet | Monday | 8/22/22 | 11am-12pm | 113 Old Cabell Hall |
| Bassoon | Monday | 8/22/22 | 3-4pm | 113 Old Cabell Hall |
| Horn | Wednesday | 8/24/22 | 5-8pm | 107 Old Cabell Hall |
| Trumpet | Wednesday | 8/24/22 | 5-8pm | 107 Old Cabell Hall |
| Trombone | Wednesday | 8/24/22 | 5-8pm | 107 Old Cabell Hall |
| Percussion | Wednesday | 8/24/22 | 8-10pm | B018 Old Cabell Hall |
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.
Our practice modules are not scheduled to be open on nights or weekends until classes begin, but to accommodate those who need to practice for their early symphony auditions, The Charlottesville Symphony Society has arranged and paid for staffing so the practice modules will be open on Sunday afternoon, August 21, from 1-5pm and Monday night, August 22nd from 5-9pm to students preparing for their symphony auditions. Online reservations will not be available, but you will be able to check-in at the front desk during these times.
See the 2022-2023 Symphony Season.
Members of the Charlottesville Symphony at the University of Virginia, as well as extra and substitute musicians, are subject to COVID-related health and safety policies as deemed necessary by the venues in which the orchestra performs. These may include, but are not limited to, requirements for vaccination, testing and masking.
*Additional audition times may be arranged in case of overflow or unavoidable conflicts.
Concert Band - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
Spring 2023 update - Enrollment in the Concert Band is open to students of all majors and academic levels. Students interested in participating in the Concert Band are encouraged to complete the Spring 2023 Wind Ensemble and Concert Band Interest Form.
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 the directors via email at bands@virginia.edu.
Jazz Ensemble - ** NO SPRING 2023 AUDITIONS **
Fall 2022 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.
We are encouraging musicians to come forward if they are interested in re-auditioning, or in auditioning for the first time. The band is interested in developing satellite groups of musicians (strings, woodwinds, for example) to participate in the music. 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 2022: Contact I-Jen Fang 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 2022: 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: Fall 2022:
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 will occur on August 26 from 3-5 in OCH Room TBA. 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 above address.
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. If you have any questions, please contact Pamela Beasley at pbb2c@virginia.edu
Jazz or Popular Voice: Fall 2022:
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 - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
Spring 2023 Update
Auditions for the UVA University Singers & Chamber Singers
Fill out this interest form to receive audition updates
Sign up at 10to8.com/book/usingers/
Spring 2023 Auditions take place the first week of class, from January 17-23.
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 Andrea Tache Lopez at amt6vu@virginia.edu.
For more info, you can also visit our new expanded website: https://usingers.virginia.edu/
Wind Ensemble - ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
SPRING 2023:
Enrollment in the Wind Ensemble is open to students of all majors and academic levels by audition. Students interested in participating in the Wind Ensemble are encouraged to complete the Spring 2023 Wind Ensemble and Concert Band Interest Form.
Woodwind and Brass players audition by recording, submitted by January 19th at 10 PM. Percussionists audition in-person at the Hunter Smith Band Building on Saturday, January 21, at 1:00 PM.
All interested musicians should prepare 3–5 minutes of music for their audition. It is recommended that your audition include two contrasting excerpts; one which highlights your technical performance ability and one which highlights your lyrical performance ability. Percussionists: please prepare one snare drum excerpt as well as one mallet excerpt (2- or 4-mallets).
Recorded auditions by woodwind and brass players may be submitted through the Wind Ensemble Audition Form. Please upload and submit your audition by 10 pm on Thursday, January 19.
The first Wind Ensemble rehearsal will be held in the Hunter Smith Band Building on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, starting at 4:00 PM.
For more information about this ensemble click here.
AFFILIATED GROUPS
Virginia Glee Club ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE ** January 24th, 26th & 27th
Love to sing? Need travel plans for Spring Break? Come sing and travel with us! The Virginia Glee Club is seeking tenor-bass singers for its Spring 2023 season. This spring we will be embarking on a tour of England and Wales, with its long legacy of tenor-bass choral singing, March 3 - 12, 2023. Stops will include Manchester, Cardiff and London. We will conclude our 152nd season at the University of Virginia with our Finals Concert in May. Auditions will be held January 24, 26 & 27, 2023. No need to bring any prepared pieces for the audition. Our director, Frank Albinder, will lead you through the audition process and tell you more. Any auditionees interested in participating in our England and Wales tour must have a valid passport, but all tenor-bass singers are welcome to join this spring, even if you can't make it on tour. Glee Club rehearses Tuesday and Thursday nights from 7:30 to 9:30 PM in Old Cabell Hall. For more information, please contact us at manager@virginiagleeclub.org or visit our website VirginiaGleeClub.org.
Virginia Women's Chorus ** SPRING 2023 UPDATE **
Want to sing with an awesome community of folks who like to have fun while producing excellent music? Audition for the Vdubz, more formally known as the Virginia Women’s Chorus. Opportunities for performing include Disney over spring break, Candlelight Concerts in Dec., Women Against Violence a cappella night, and a fun Spring concert and many more! Check out our YouTube channel and our most popular video, And So It Goes!
Auditions are quick and easy and sight-reading is not a determining factor. Sign up here (and walk-ins can be accommodated).
Virginia Women’s Chorus auditions will take place January 20-29. 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, contemporary and diverse music from the challenging choral literature for women’s voices. As it has for 48 years, the Chorus fosters a deep sense of connectedness among our singer.
Visit virginiawomenschorus.org to sign up for an audition or email our vice president Aleah McGill at vwcvicepresident@gmail.com for more information. We hope to hear from you soon!!!