Instrumental Music
Instrumental Music Audition Requirements
Instrumentalists (Band, Orchestra, Percussion and Classical Guitar) are asked to prepare the following:
- A solo piece that indicates the student's present level of skill and musicianship. The piece does not have to be memorized but must be well rehearsed. Two copies of the written music must be brought to the audition for the audition committee.
- Sight-read a piece selected by the audition committee.
- Take an assessment of music notation and rhythm reading.
- Demonstrate the ability to play chromatic scales in the practical range of the instrument.
- Perform major scales up to three sharps and three flats within the normal range of the instrument.
Strings/Guitar: two octaves
Winds: two octaves, if possible
Percussionists: Play the rudiments - long roll, 5 stroke roll, 9 stroke roll, flam, flam tap, ruff and paradiddle and demonstrate the ability to play a melody on the bells, if possible.
Instruments included in the SOTA Band: flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, french horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion (snare drum, timpani and mallet instruments) and classical guitar.
Instruments included in the SOTA Orchestra: violin, viola, cello, string bass (upright).
Instruments included in the World Music Program: Taiko Drumming, Indonesian Gamelan & Chant, Afro-Cuban and Filipino Tinikling, Classical Indian, Piano, Guitar.
Band and Orchestra students focus primarily on classical and jazz training. Coursework includes sight singing, music history, electronic music and training in the specific instrument played by the student. World Music students must have a strong desire to learn about the music of world cultures and do not need prior musical training or proficiency in a musical instrument. Artists-in-residence help round out the program with professional expertise and community involvement. Students will participate in various service learning programs to assist elementary and middle school students. The SOTA program includes large and small ensembles, a jazz band and the opportunity to play in various interdisciplinary performances. Students entering the department for band and orchestra should possess strong skills in the following areas: sight reading, scales, tone and a solo repertoire in their chosen instrument.