Breadcrumb
Deadlines Audition days Pre-Screening recordings Audition and application requirements
All applicants must apply to the University of Colorado Graduate School. Applications may be obtained online through the College of Music Admissions page.
Note: If you’re already a student and want to audition for one of our ensembles, please visit the Ensembles page.
Deadlines
Fall admission
- Deadline for all applicants to return completed application along with supplemental materials: December 1
Spring admission
- Only music education applications accepted; Deadline for application and all requested materials: October 1 (Music Education only)
Live audition days
The College of Music holds live auditions in January and February. The College of Music holds live auditions in January and February. At least two weeks prior to the start of our audition dates, Brass and Percussion, Jazz, Strings and most Woodwind applicants who pass the pre-screening round (if applicable) will be invited to select one of the dates below for their live audition.
2022 audition dates:
- January 22, 2022 (in-person on campus): Audition Day Agenda
- February 5, 2022 (in-person on campus): Audition Day Agenda
- February 12, 2022 (virtual): Audition Day Agenda
The following areas schedule department-specific auditions or interviews on alternate dates:
- Composition + Theory
- Conducting
- Flute
- Keyboard
- Music Education
- Musicology
- Voice
Please contact the department chair for the department's audition or interview dates.
Please see below for your department’s specific application, audition and interview requirements.
Some departments may require additional materials for teaching assistantship consideration. Please check your department website or contact the area chair for specific details.
Pre-screening recordings
Please see specific information below for prescreening recording requirements. All pre-screening and recorded auditions must be uploaded in our application through the Digital Portfolio tab on the left side of the application.
Recording requirements
We cannot accept DVD or CD recordings; you must upload your recording to the Graduate Application.
Submit recordings using the same process if you are applying for a program that requires a pre-screening audition. You will be contacted if you have been invited to move on in the application process.
Writing samples
A scholarly writing sample (e.g., research paper) is required of all DMA, PhD, and MM in Theory applicants. The document should demonstrate ability in critical thinking, appropriate research techniques, and skill in the cogent use of English. Writing samples should be uploaded to your application in the digital portfolio tab. Writing samples should be uploaded as a supplemental file with the Graduate Application.
Audition + application requirements
Brass + percussion–Graduate
Graduate Trumpet Applicant Requirements
Pre-screening Recording
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate trumpet applicants.
Required Repertoire (pre-screening recording only)
- One movement of a standard concerto or sonata or five to eight minutes from a single-movement work
- One contrasting piece (solo or etude) from the trumpet literature
- Two standard orchestral excerpts
It is important that you record these selections with a high-quality microphone. If you would like to include other pieces of your choice, these will be listened to. Please feel free to submit supporting materials such as a resume or biography but these are not required.
All pre-screening recordings must be submitted online to the Graduate Application on or before December 1. Students are encouraged to upload supporting materials along with their recordings.
Live Auditions
Students invited to the in-person auditions will be notified of their acceptance to the auditions by late December.
For the most part, audition material is flexible. Candidates should choose works that demonstrate their very best in both technical and lyrical playing. Works by diverse composers are encouraged.
Required Repertoire (live auditions and recorded auditions for Fall 2021 only)
- Honegger Intrada (MM and DMA applicants), and one contrasting solo from the trumpet literature (MM applicants) or two additional contrasting works including a full concerto (DMA applicants)
- Two etudes–select from Charlier, Bitsch, Smith Top Tones, etc.
- Three standard excerpts
- One excerpt from the following: Bach B Minor Mass (Credo, m. 29-47), Bach Christmas Oratorio (No. 64, m. 1-12), Bach Magnificat (opening) or Mussorgsky/Ravel Pictures at an Exhibition (Goldenberg and Schmuyle)
- Sight Reading: Technical (no transposition) and Lyrical (with transposition)
- DMA Candidates should be prepared to play for 30 minutes.
Live auditions are strongly preferred. Students who are unable to travel to Boulder for a live audition may submit a high-quality recorded audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact Dr. Ryan Gardner. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio. Please note that while recorded auditions will be given consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition. Recorded auditions will not be considered for merit-based financial aid.
If the candidate has any questions about repertoire, please contact Dr. Ryan Gardner.
Artist Diploma Auditions
For information on auditioning on trumpet for the Artist Diploma program, see the documents below
- Artist Diploma in Solo Performance
- Artist Diploma in Chamber Music Performance
- Artist Diploma in Orchestral Performance
Graduate Degree Sheets
Contact the Trumpet Studio Visit the Brass and Percussion page
Graduate Trombone Audition Requirements
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate trombone applicants.
Pre-screening Repertoire
10-15 minutes of music (solo, excerpts, and/or etudes). Pre-screening material can be from the live audition lists, or material of equivalent difficulty.
Live Auditions
Tenor Trombone
Solo work(s) of the applicant’s choice (piano accompaniment is optional).
The following list demonstrates the performance level expected for graduate study (other works of similar difficulty may be substituted).
- Bozza – Ballade
- Casterede – Sonatine
- Duttilleux – Choral, Cadence et Fugato
- Ewazen – Sonata
- Grondahl – Concerto
- Hindemith – Sonate
- Jacob – Concerto
- Peaslee – Arrows of Time
- Ropartz – Piece in E-flat minor
- Orchestral Excerpts: Please select several from the following list:
Mozart – Tuba Mirum from Requiem
Berlioz – Hungarian March
Wagner – Ride of the Valkyries
Ravel – Bolero
Rossini – La gazza ladra
Rossini – William Tell
Saint–Saens – Symphony No. 3 (Organ)
Mahler – Symphony No. 3
Brahms – Symphony No. 1 or No. 4 - Optional Material: Please feel free to include other material that demonstrates your performance abilities – jazz, contrasting etudes, unaccompanied literature, etc.
Bass Trombone
Solo work(s) of the applicant’s choice (piano accompaniment is optional).
The following list demonstrates the performance level expected for graduate study (other works of similar difficulty may be substituted).
- Bozza – New Orleans
- Casterede – Fantasie Concertante
- Defaye/Knaub – Deux Danses
- Koetsier – Allegro Maestoso
- Lebedev – Concerto in One Movement
- Spillman – Concerto
- White – Tetra Ergon
- Wilder – Sonata
-
Orchestral Excerpts: Please select several from the following list:
Beethoven – Symphony No. 9
Haydn – The Creation
Berlioz – Hungarian March
Wagner – Ride of the Valkyries
Wagner – Entry of the Gods into Valhalla
Schumann – Symphony No. 3 (Rhenish)
Respighi – Fountains of Rome
Rossini – William Tell - Optional Material: Please feel free to include other material that demonstrates your performance abilities – jazz, contrasting etudes, unaccompanied literature etc.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio. Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Artist Diploma Auditions
For information on auditioning on trombone or bass trombone for the Artist Diploma program, see the documents below:
- Artist Diploma in Chamber Music Performance (tenor trombone)
- Artist Diploma in Orchestral Performance (tenor trombone and bass trombone)
Graduate Degree Sheets
Contact the Trombone Studio Visit the Brass and Percussion page
Graduate Horn Applicant Requirements
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate horn applicants
Please prepare the following music for both the prescreening and the live auditions in horn.
Pre-screening Repertoire
- Required Solo Work (no piano)
- Exposition of Mozart Concerto for Horn in E-flat (K.417, K.447, or K.495)
- A solo work of the candidate’s choice
Orchestral Excerpts
- Beethoven Symphony 3, Mvmt. 3 (horn 2)
- Brahms Symphony No. 2, mvmt. 1 and 2 (horn 1)
- Shostakovich Symphony 5, mvmt. 1 low tutti (horn 1)
- Wagner Short Call from Gotterdammerung
Live Auditions
Required Solo Work (piano accompaniment optional)
-
First movement of Mozart Concerto for Horn in E-flat (K. 417, K. 447, or K. 495)
Solo Work of Choice (piano accompaniment optional)
A solo work of the candidate’s choice. This repertoire may include (but is not limited to):
- Bozza En Forêt or Sur les Cimes
- Glière Concerto for Horn, Op. 91
- Hindemith Concerto for Horn
- Jacob Concerto for Horn and Strings
- Persichetti Parable VIII
- Schumann Adagio and Allegro
- Strauss, R. Concerto No. 1 or Concerto No. 2
Orchestral Excerpts
Please prepare the following excerpts:
- Beethoven Symphony No. 3, mvt. III (horn 2)
Brahms Symphony No. 2, mvt. I and II (horn 1)
Mahler Symphony No. 5, mvt. III (obbligato horn)
Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, mvt. I low tutti (horn 1)
Strauss, R. Till Eulenspiegel, calls (horn 1 and 3) OR Ein Heldenleben, opening (horn 1)
Wagner Götterdämmerung, Siegfried’s Rhine Journey Short Call (horn 1)
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio. Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Graduate Tuba and Euphonium Applicants Audition Requirements
Pre-Screening Recording
Pre-screening recordings are not required for all graduate tuba/euphonium applicants.
Live Auditions
Applicants should prepare a full recital. Recital repertoire should represent multiple styles (i.e. Baroque transcriptions, Classical Period, any appropriate sonatas and/or concerti from the 20th/21st centuries, unaccompanied work). All literature should be well considered for the particular degree plan you wish to enter. The audition selections will be chosen from the recital repertoire.
Four or five excerpts from the major orchestral and band literature. Typical first and/or second round selections are acceptable for both tubists and euphoniumists. Please have at least four or five ready to go. Tubists should demonstrate their proficiency on both the bass and contrabass tubas. If the applicant doubles on euphonium and wishes to include it as part of their audition, the applicant should select repertoire based on experience.
Most graduate-level auditions will have a sight-reading component as well. The literature will be selected from both familiar and unfamiliar repertoire.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Contact the Tuba and Euphonium Studio Visit the Brass and Percussion page
Graduate Percussion Applicants Audition Requirements
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate percussion applicants.
MM Pre-Screening Repertoire
-
4-8 minutes of music by J. S. Bach on marimba or vibraphone, with piano or not
-
1 J. Delécluse or M. Peters étude for snare drum
-
Either 4 orchestra excerpts (percussion and/or timpani) OR 4-8 minutes of jazz vibraphone and/or drum set OR 4-8 minutes of a multiple percussion work
A cumulative 3.0 GPA in undergraduate work is required for Merit Based Aid consideration for MM Percussion applicants
DMA Suggested Pre-Screening Repertoire
-
4-8 minutes of music by J. S. Bach on marimba or vibraphone
-
4-8 minutes of a contemporary work for marimba or vibraphone
-
1 J. Delécluse or M. Peters étude and a rudimental solo for snare drum
-
5-10 minutes of jazz vibraphone and/or drum set
-
Either 6 orchestra excerpts (percussion and timpani) OR a demonstration of Afro-Cuban, Brazilian or African, etc. hand drumming
Applicants to the DMA percussion program are required to have two years of professional experience, either before or after having earned an MM degree.
Live Auditions
Students invited to the in-person auditions will be notified of their acceptance to the auditions on or before Jan. 15. Auditions are held in 30-minute time slots, accommodating time for the formal audition, a follow-up interview and a mini-lesson.
Because the audition time is short, you should prepare your selections extremely well, rather than prepare a complete recital program. Memorization is encouraged, but auditions include sight-reading.
We want to see how musically and confidently you can play. The live auditions do not have specific repertoire requirements. Please play snare drum, mallets (mar. vibes, and/or xylo.) and more. Show us your best performance of music to your taste. You may play drum set, jazz improv., orchestral excerpts, multi-perc. set-ups, timpani, hand drums, and jazz or classical transcriptions, etc.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A high quality DVD recording may be substituted if travel distance/cost is prohibitive. Please announce at the beginning of the recording your name and repertoire selections. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Merit Based Aid.
Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording must be in a digital format with high quality audio. Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Aritst Diploma Auditions
Graduate Degree Sheets
Contact the Percusssion Studio Visit the Brass and Percussion page
Applications for Artist Diploma in Solo Performance are only accepted in percussion (marimba/vibraphone), strings (violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar, harp), jazz and woodwinds (bassoon, clarinet, oboe, saxophone).
Applications for Artist Diploma in Chamber Music Performance are only accepted in strings (violin, viola, cello, bass).
Applications for Artist Diploma in Orchestral Performance are only accepted in brass (trumpet, trombone, horn, tuba), strings (violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar, harp) and woodwinds (bassoon, clarinet, oboe, saxophone).
Composition–Graduate
Composition applicants audition requirements
- Composition portfolio and application due Dec. 1
- Composition interviews: date TBD
Audition requirements
Scores of original compositions along with recordings. Recordings can be live/edited or MIDI realizations. Scores and recordings must be uploaded with the graduate application.
Graduate degree sheets
Contact the composition department Visit the composition page
Conducting–Graduate
Graduate Choral Conducting Applicant Requirements
Pre-screening Recording
Pre-screening audition videos should be prepared with the following content and specifications:
- Your video, recorded in “high-definition” within the last three years, should be uploaded to through the application portal.
- It should include approximately 10 minutes of you teaching in a live choral rehearsal on two contrasting pieces (preferably from different style periods).
- It should also include approximately 10 minutes of you conducting in a performance setting.
- It should include brief samples of warm-ups and tuning exercises with your choir.
- The video camera should be pointed towards you with a portion of your choir in view.
- The video camera should have high-quality sound recording capabilities.
Applicants are required to upload their Pre-screening audition video online to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Live Auditions
Applicants will be invited to conduct a brief portion of a live rehearsal with one of the CU Choirs. In addition, you will be asked to sing a vocal solo (folk song, art song or aria— memorization not required) and will interview with the choral faculty as well as the resident choral graduate students.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. Though not encouraged, a recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Merit-Based Aid. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio, or video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio. Instead of auditioning live, after submitting the preliminary tape, you can send in another recording. Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
- The video camera should be pointed at you—that is from a chorister's perspective—and with quality sound production equipment
- Include brief samples of vocalises and tuning exercises with your choir.
- Be sure to include approximately 10 minutes of your leadership in a live choral rehearsal on two contrasting pieces (preferably from different style periods)
- Also, please include 5-10 minutes of your conducting in a performance setting.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Graduate Orchestral Conducting Applicant Requirements
Pre-Screening + Audition Procedures
Submit the following prescreening material to the Graduate Application:
- A face to the camera video of performance that is approximately 30 minutes in length. The repertoire is the applicant’s choice, but ideally will include contrasting styles.
- A list of repertoire including works studied and works performed.
- Questions regarding the prescreening materials should be directed to Gary Lewis, Director of Orchestral Studies.
- Based on prescreening materials, selected applicants will be invited to campus for a live audition in February or early March.
On-Campus Audition
Invited applicants will conduct the Chamber Orchestra and/or the ensemble in the Graduate Conducting Seminar. The audition repertoire will be communicated with the candidate upon being invited to campus.
There will also be an interview with Mr. Lewis. This will include questions relating to the work(s) conducted during the audition and other works communicated to the candidate. These questions may be related to historical or theoretical aspects of these works. The candidate may also be asked to sing parts or rhythms from the works to be discussed. You may use the score for this portion of the interview.
Graduate Degree Sheets
The University of Colorado Boulder offers both masters and doctoral degrees in wind conducting. These programs are designed to offer a wide variety of opportunities for the graduate conductor who is interested in an academic or professional conducting career. CU Boulder provides opportunities with our three concert bands and our athletic band program.
Pre-Screening + Audition Procedures
Submit the following prescreening material to the Graduate Application.
- A face to the camera video that is approximately 30 minutes in length. The video should include 15 minutes of rehearsal and 15 minutes of performance. The repertoire is the applicant’s choice, but should represent a variety of tempi and style.
- A repertoire list of pieces conducted in performance.
- Doctoral applicants ONLY: In addition to the materials above, please include a written analysis of a work from the standard wind repertoire.
Questions regarding the prescreening material should be directed to Donald McKinney, Director of Bands.
Based on the prescreening materials, selected applicants will be invited to an on-campus audition that will take place in February.
On-Campus Audition
Graduate Wind Conducting auditions take place in late February. Invited applicants will complete a 20-minute audition with the CU Wind Symphony or Symphonic Band. The audition repertoire will be chosen in consultation with the candidate and the wind conducting faculty.
There will also be an interview with the wind conducting faculty.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Jazz Studies–Graduate
Graduate (MM) Jazz Applicant Requirements
Pre-screening Recording
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate jazz performance and pedagogy applicants. Live auditions will be granted to applicants chosen from these recordings. Applicants will be notified of the faculty decision no later than one month prior to any live audition.
Pre-Screening Recording Requirements
- Five different jazz tunes (applicant’s choice), representing five different styles (e.g. Latin, blues, rhythm changes, contemporary ballad, etc.); improvising on all five tunes as well.
- Applicants can also upload and submit any additional materials (e.g. arrangements, compositions, copies of recitals or other recordings, written articles, etc.) along with their pre-screening recordings online.
Applicants are required to upload their additional materials along with their recordings to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Graduate (DMA) Jazz Applicant Requirements
Pre-screening Recording
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate jazz performance and pedagogy applicants. Live auditions will be granted to applicants chosen from these recordings. Applicants will be notified of the faculty decision no later than one month prior to any live audition.
Pre-screening Recording Requirements
- Five different jazz tunes (applicant’s choice), representing five different styles (e.g. Latin, blues, rhythm changes, contemporary ballad, etc.); improvising on all five tunes as well.
- Applicants can also upload and submit any additional materials (e.g. arrangements, compositions, copies of recitals or other recordings, written articles, etc.) along with their pre-screening recordings online.
Applicants are required to upload their additional materials along with their recordings to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Graduate Degree Sheets
We are not accepting applications for the DMA in Jazz Performance (saxophone and guitar) for Fall 2022.
For information about the Artist Diploma in Jazz Studies, please contact John Gunther.
Music Education–Graduate
Graduate (MME) Music Education Applicant Requirements
The Master of Music Education degree program requires thirty semester hours of study (a minimum of 24 hours at the graduate level), distributed among three areas: music education, music courses outside of music education, and open electives. MME students are challenged to develop a greater understanding and mastery of music teaching-learning processes, to improve personal musicianship, and to become committed leaders within the profession. Electives and cognate areas of study allow students to customize the degree to fit their particular interests and needs.
MME Admission Requirements
- Graduate School Application and Application Fee
- Undergraduate Transcripts
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0* and BME degree or equivalent
- Four Current Letters of Recommendation should address academic potential, teaching skills, musicianship, and character
- Professional Resume (1-2 pages)
- Personal Statement: Describe your professional goals as a teacher, musician, and learner (500-750 words)
- Critical Issue Essay (upload as a Supplemental File with the graduate application)
- Applicants for assistantships only: Digital video recording of your teaching (for upload), 20-30 minutes in length. Teaching video rather than performance is required.
- Interview with music education faculty (optional; may be requested by faculty)
Note: Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0 must submit a GRE scores to be considered for admission.
MME Degree Requirements
Music Education – 12 hrs.
- Foundations of Music Education – 2 hrs.
- Psychology of Music Learning – 2 hrs.
- Research in Music Teaching – 2 hrs.
- Elective Courses and Workshops – 6 hrs.
Music – 12 hrs.
- Introduction to Music Bibliography and Research – 2 hrs.
- Cognate – 6 hrs.
- Theory, Musicology, Performance, Conducting, or Jazz Studies Elective Courses and Workshops – 4 hrs.
Open Electives – 6 hrs.
- Thesis, Electives Courses, Workshops, or Independent Study
Graduate Degree Sheet
Graduate (MME+) Music Education Applicant Requirements
Individuals who have completed an undergraduate degree in music and who want to qualify for a Colorado K-12 Music Teaching License while completing a graduate degree may apply to the Master of Music Education Plus Licensure degree program (MME+). The MME+ program requires approximately 40 hours of licensure course work, in addition to the 30 hours required for the Master's degree. Students also must demonstrate that they have completed the equivalent liberal arts and music courses required for a BME degree at the University of Colorado. If course equivalency requirements are not met, additional hours of course work may be required. Typically, students take 2-3 years (including summers) to complete the MME+ degree, though it is possible to complete the licensure requirements prior to completing all requirements for the Masters degree.
MME+ Admission Requirements
- Graduate School Application and Application Fee
- Undergraduate Transcripts
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0* and a Bachelor of Music degree, Bachelor of Arts degree in Music, or equivalent
- 4 current letters of recommendation should address academic potential, teaching skills, musicianship, and character
- Professional Resume (1-2 pages)
- Personal Statement: Describe your professional goals as a teacher, musician, and learner (500-750 words)
- Critical Issue Essay (upload as a Supplemental File with the graduate application)
- Live or videotaped demonstration of teaching (assistantship applicants only)
- Interview with music education faculty (optional; may be requested by faculty)
Note: Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0 must submit a GRE scores to be considered for admission.
Requirements for K-12 Colorado Music Teaching License
- Conducting I and II – 4 hrs.
- Piano/Voice Classes – 3-4 hrs.
- Vocal Pedagogy and Literature – 2 hrs.
- Instrument Technique Classes – 3-7 hrs.
- Music Education Methods Classes – 8-11 hrs.
- Music Education Electives – 4 hrs.
- Professional Seminars in Education- 6 hrs.
- Educational Psychology – 3 hrs.
- Early Field Experience – 2 hrs.
- Student Teaching – 9 hrs.
Total = 48 hours*
Note: 9 credit hours required for licensure may apply to the MME degree.
Graduate Degree Information
Graduate (PhD) Music Education Applicant Requirements
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in music education is designed to prepare individuals for careers as college music education faculty members, or as music administrators and practitioner-leaders in public schools. The PhD degree program requires a minimum of 45 semester hours of graduate course work (including 15 hours of masters level background courses in music education), and a minimum of 30 hours of doctoral dissertation credit.
PhD Admission Requirements
- Graduate School Application and Application Fee
- Undergraduate and Graduate Transcripts (1 official copy per school)
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0* and BME degree or equivalent
- Minimum graduate GPA of 3.25* and MME degree or equivalent
- 4 current letters of reference
- Should address academic potential, teaching skills, musicianship, and character
- Minimum of one letter from a graduate professor in an academic area
- Professional Resume (1-2 pages)
- Personal Statement: Describe your professional goals as a teacher, musician, and learner (500-750 words)
- Critical Issue Essay (upload as a Supplemental File with the graduate application)
- Writing Sample: Evidence of writing proficiency (for example, a Masters-level course paper or thesis) (upload as a Supplemental File with the graduate application)
- Digital video recording of your teaching (for upload), 20-30 minutes in length. Teaching video rather than performance is required.
- Interview with music education faculty
- On-campus interview is preferred; video-phone or off-campus interview is optional
- GRE Exam Scores: General test (verbal, analytical, quantitative) is required
- Minimum of three years of successful K-12 music teaching experience
PhD Degree Requirements
Masters Level Background Courses – 15 hrs.
Music Education – 15 hrs.
- Doctoral Seminar – 3 hrs.
- Issues in College Teaching – 3 hrs.
- Historical Research Methods – 3 hrs.
- Quantitative Research Methods – 3 hrs.
- Qualitative Research Methods – 3 hrs.
Music Electives – 6 hrs.
- Select from: Musicology; Music Theory, Jazz Studies, Performance, and Conducting.
Non-Music Electives – 9 hrs.
- Intermediate Statistics – 3 hrs.
- Elective Courses – 6 hrs.
- Select from: Curriculum and Instruction; Educational Psychology; Research and Evaluation Methodology; and Social and Multicultural Foundations
Dissertation – 30 hrs.
Scholarly Contributions by Recent PhD Students
Graduate Degree Sheet
We believe that each student approaches graduate study with unique and personal goals. The Summer Master of Music Education (MME) degree at the University of Colorado Boulder is designed to address a variety of interests, needs and areas of expertise for K-12 teachers.
For more information, visit the Summer at the College of Music page
Graduate Degree Sheet
You must register for University of Colorado Boulder Continuing Education for the Teacher License Renewal or the Summer MME. For information, email us and include "CEU Credits" in the subject of the email. There are two options for this program:
- You can register for graduate credits as a non-degree student at the current tuition rate of $620 per credit. These credits can be applied toward a future graduate degree, and will be documented by university transcript.
- You can register for courses marked with an *, at the rate of $175 per credit [equivalent of 1.5 CEU units]. The office of Continuing Education will issue a certificate upon completion of the course.
Information on scholarships for non-degree students registering for graduate credit can be found on the Continuing Education website. Note: the deadline for applications is typically late in May, or early in June; funding is based on a competitive essay application process.
Musicology–Graduate
A writing sample (term paper) is required of all PhD musicology applicants. The document should demonstrate ability in critical thinking, appropriate research techniques, and skill in the cogent use of English. Writing samples should be uploaded to your application in the digital portfolio tab.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Piano + Keyboard–Graduate
2022 piano audition date: Jan. 29
Pre-screening videos should follow the same guidelines as the audition requirements. However, the repertoire presented does not need to be exactly the same as that offered for the audition.
Master of Music
Applicants should prepare a program of at least 45 minutes, consisting of three or more contrasting works representative of a variety of styles. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their personal strengths and interests in their repertoire choices, and to include repertoire by composers from historically underrepresented groups. All works, except those composed since 1950, should be memorized.
Doctor of Musical Arts
Applicants should prepare a program of at least 60 minutes, consisting of four or more contrasting works representative of a variety of styles. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their personal strengths and interests in their repertoire choices, and to include repertoire by composers from historically underrepresented groups. All works, except those composed since 1950, should be memorized.
Graduate Degree Sheets
2022 piano audition date: January 29
Pre-screening videos should follow the same guidelines as the audition requirements. However, the repertoire presented does not need to be exactly the same as that offered for the audition.
Master of Music
Applicants should prepare a program of at least 45 minutes, consisting of three or more contrasting works representative of a variety of styles. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate their personal strengths and interests in their repertoire choices, and to include repertoire by composers from historically underrepresented groups. All works, except those composed since 1950, should be memorized.
Additionally, applicants are requested to submit 20-30 minutes of video-recorded teaching samples in the form of two or three 10-minute lesson segments with different students in different levels. Include a document with information about the lessons and the students in the samples, including their ages and levels, how long you have worked with the students, the materials you currently use and have used in their lessons, the lesson goals in the included samples and your general assessment of the student (musically, technically, etc). Also include a self-assessment of the lesson samples (e.g., things that went well, things you would have done differently, etc.). As well, examples of writing samples (e.g., class papers), if available, are also encouraged.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Requirements for Collaborative Piano Applicants
- Pre-screening: Required; due Dec. 1 (repertoire below)
- Audition: Required; 2022 dates: February 11 and February 25
Please reach out to collaborativepiano@colorado.edu with questions.
Pre-Screening Recording
Pre-screening recordings are required for all graduate collaborative piano (including Vocal Coaching) applicants. Recordings will not be reviewed until the online application and supporting materials have been received. Live auditions will be granted to applicants chosen from these recordings. Applicants will be notified of the faculty decision no later than December 15.
Recordings must be made with instrumental and vocal partners. If invited for a live audition, applicants may choose to present the repertoire previously submitted for pre-screening consideration.
Pre-Screening Recording Requirements
The recording should feature the following repertoire:
- Two contrasting movements of a standard sonata for violin or cello and piano, such as Franck, Brahms, Beethoven or Prokofiev
- Two art songs of contrasting styles and character, one French and the other German (this repertoire may include - but is not limited to - the list of recommended vocal repertoire)
Applicants are required to submit their pre-screening recordings to the Graduate Application. The deadline for submission is December 1.
Live Auditions
Applicants should prepare a program comprising all elements listed below. All auditions must be presented with partners; applicants may bring their own partners when possible. Otherwise, partners will be arranged locally and applicants will have the opportunity to rehearse once with their instrumental colleagues prior to the audition. All vocal selections will be performed unrehearsed.
In addition to performance of the prepared repertoire, there will be a sight-reading component as well as an interview during the audition process. Applicants should bring a current repertoire list with them to the audition.
Master of Music repertoire requirements
- One complete standard sonata for stringed instrument and piano, such as Franck, Brahms, Beethoven, or Prokofiev
- The first movement of one of the following Mozart concerti:
- Violin: K. 216 in G major, K. 218 in D major, or K. 219 in A major
- Flute: K. 313/285c in G major
- Oboe: K. 314/271k in C major
- Clarinet: K. 622 in A major
- Bassoon: K. 191/186e in B-flat major
- Horn: K. 217, K. 447, or K. 495 in E-flat major
- A group of six art songs of contrasting styles and character, representing the French, German and English languages. See recommendation list below.
Doctor of Musical Arts repertoire requirements
- Two complete standard sonatas for instrument and piano, such as Franck, Brahms, Beethoven, or Prokofiev. One sonata must be for a stringed instrument and piano, the other for a wind/brass instrument and piano
- The first movement of one of the Mozart concerti listed above
- A group of six art songs of contrasting styles and character, representing the French, German and English languages. See recommendation list below.
Applicants should indicate their repertoire selections using the online Audition Repertoire Form before Dec. 1.
Questions regarding the collaborative piano program and the audition requirements can be sent to: collaborativepiano@colorado.edu.
Recommended vocal repertoire
Applicants may select art songs from the standard repertoire, and every effort will be made to partner the chosen pieces. A list of recommended repertoire follows:
German
J. Brahms Botschaft
F. Schubert Ganymed
or Gretchen am Spinnrade
R. Schumann Waldesgespräch or Mondnacht
R. Strauss Allerseelen or Ständchen
H. Wolf Er ists
French
C. Debussy Il pleure dans mon coeur or C’est l’extase
H. Duparc Phidylé or Chanson triste
G. Faure Mandoline or Clair de lune
English
S. Barber St. Ita’s Vision
or The Monk and His Cat
A. Copland
Heart! We Will Forget Him!
R. Vaughan Williams The Vagabond or The Roadside Fire
Graduate Degree Sheets
Contact the Collaborative Piano Program Visit the Keyboard page
Requirements for Vocal Coaching Applicants
-
Pre-screening: Required; due Dec. 1 (repertoire below)
-
Audition: Required; 2022 dates: February 11 and February 25
Please reach out to collaborativepiano@colorado.edu with questions.
Pre-Screening Recording Requirements:
One aria and one art song of contrasting styles performed with a singer.
Live Auditions:
- Choose one of the following Mozart arias to play and sing (substitutions upon request):
- “Hai già vinta la causa” from Le nozze di Figaro
- “Temerari, sortite fuori di questo loco... Come scoglio” from Così fan tutte
- Choose one of the following arias to play. A singer will be provided at the audition.
- “No word from Tom” from Stravinsky’s The Rake’s Progress (complete)
- “Sein wir wieder gut” from Strauss’ Ariadne auf Naxos
- Choose one ensemble to play with a conductor. Be prepared to provide basic cues.
- “Bella figlia dell’amore” quartet from Verdi’s Rigoletto
- Quartet from the 3rd act of Puccini’s La bohème
-
Choose 3 art songs to play – one each in English, German, and French. A singer will be provided. Be prepared to coach any of these songs in your audition.
-
Choose the first movement of a standard string sonata to play. An instrumentalist will be provided.
Strings–Graduate
Graduate Violin Applicant Requirements
Pre-Screening Recording
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate string applicants. All applicants are required to submit their pre-screening recordings online to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Repertoire Requirements
Master's of Music
- A movement of a Romantic or 20th century concerto
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach solo sonata or partita
- Additional piece of applicant's choice (such as a show piece)
Doctor of Musical Arts
- A movement of a concerto - Beethoven, Romantic or 20th Century
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach sonata or partita
- A 20th, 21st Century work of applicant's choice, post 1950
- Additional piece of applicant's choice (such as a show piece)
IMPORTANT: When filling out the university application, violin applicants should request in the “Statement of Purpose” their preference for the violin professor with whom they would like to study
Live Auditions
The live audition requirements are the same as listed above. In the live audition, memorization of works such as the concerto and Bach is required.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Graduate Viola Applicant Requirements
Pre-Screening Recording
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate string applicants. All applicants are required to submit their pre-screening recordings online to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Repertoire Requirements
Master's of Music
- A movement of a 20th century concerto
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach solo suite
- Additional piece of applicant's choice
Doctor of Musical Arts
- A movement of a 20th century concerto
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach solo suite, sonata or partita
- A movement of a sonata
- Additional piece of applicant’s choice, post 1980
Live Auditions
The live audition requirements are the same as listed above. In the live audition, memorization of works such as the concerto and Bach is required.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Graduate Cello Applicant Requirements
Pre-Screening Recording
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate string applicants. All applicants are required to submit their pre-screening recordings online to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Repertoire Requirements
Cello (Performance and Perf/Ped)
Four contrasting works (or movements from works) demonstrating different music styles. Works by female composers and BIPOC composers are strongly encouraged.
- One movement from a cello concerto
- One movement from a Bach solo suite for cello
- One movement from a solo cello work
- One work (or movement) from a piece of your choosing
Doctor of Musical Arts, Cello
Five contrasting works (or movements from works) demonstrating different music styles. Works by female composers and BIPOC composers are strongly encouraged.
- One movement from a cello concerto
- Two contrasting movements from a Bach solo suite for cello
- A 20th/21st Century work of applicant’s choice, post-1950
- One work (or movement) from a piece of your choosing
Artist Diploma, Cello (Solo)
Five contrasting works (or movements from works) demonstrating different music styles. Works by female composers and BIPOC composers are strongly encouraged.
- One movement from a cello concerto
- Two contrasting movements from a Bach solo suite for cello
- A 20th/21st Century work of applicant’s choice, post-1950
- One work (or movement) from a piece of your choosing
Artist Diploma, Cello (Chamber Music)
Five contrasting works (or movements from works) demonstrating different music styles. Works by female composers and BIPOC composers are strongly encouraged.
- One movement from a cello concerto
- Two contrasting movements from a Bach solo suite for cello
- A 20th/21st Century work of applicant’s choice, post-1950
- One work (or movement) from a piece of your choosing
- Chamber Music Repertoire List and Full Resume (please submit with application materials)
Artist Diploma (Cello, Orchestra Perf)
Four contrasting works (or movements from works) demonstrating different music styles. Works by female composers and BIPOC composers are strongly encouraged.
- One movement from a cello concerto
- One movement from a Bach solo suite for cello
- A 20th/21st Century work of applicant’s choice, post-1950
- One work (or movement) from a piece of your choosing
Plus 4 excerpts from the list below:
- Beethoven Symphony #5 (Andante con moto, opening to Letter D)
- Brahms Symphony #2 (Adagio non troppo, opening to Letter A)
- Brahms Symphony #3 (Poco allegretto, opening to Letter B)
- Debussy La Mer (2 bars before Rehearsal 9 to Rehearsal 10)
- Mozart Symphony #35, (Finale, opening to Letter E)
- Mendelssohn Scherzo (Letter C to D, Letter N to O)
- Strauss Don Juan, first page
- Strauss Ein Heldenleben, first page
- Tchaikovsky Symphony #4 (Andantino in modo di canzona, opening to Letter A)
- Verdi Offertorio (opening to bar 29)
Repertoire may be chosen from any era and may include works such as
Concerto: One movement of a concerto from the cello repertoire, such as Barber, Bloch, Boccherini, Dvorak, Elgar, Haydn, Herbert, Lalo, Mumford, Prokofiev, Saint-Saëns, Schumann, Shostakovich, or Tchaikovsky.
Solo Cello: Selection(s) from the Bach Suites for Solo Cello, Dutilleux Trois Strophes, Lutoslawski Sacher Variation, Cassadó Suite, Golijov Omaramor, Leon Four Pieces, Ligeti Sonata, Mayuzumi Bunraku, Piatti Caprices, Perkinson Lamentations Black/Folk Song Suite (1973), Popper Etudes, Schuller Fantasy, Shaw In manus tuas, or Sheng Seven Tunes Heard in China.
Free Choice Piece: Bloch Nigun, Cassadó Requiebros, Cassadó Danse du Diable Vert, Chopin Polonaise Brilliante, Chopin/Popper Nocturne No. 2 in E flat major, Op. 9, No. 2, Coleridge-Taylor Variations, Fauré Après un Rêve, Faure Papillons, Grant Still Summerland, Mendelssohn Songs Without Words, Popper Spinning Song or Elfentanz, Paganini Moses Variations, Schumann Adagio and Allegro Op. 70, Simon Lickety Split, Tchaikovsky Pezzo Capriccioso, Wallen Dervish, or Yun Espace I (1992).
Post-1950 cello work: Dutilleux Trois Strophes, Crumb Sonata, Golijov Omaramor, Leon Four Pieces, Ligeti Sonata, Lutoslawski Sacher Variation, Mayuzumi Bunraku, Perkinson Lamentations Black/Folk Song Suite (1973), Schuller Fantasy, Shaw In manus tuas, or Sheng Seven Tunes Heard in China.
Live Auditions
The live audition requirements are the same as listed above. In the live audition, memorization of works such as the concerto and Bach is required.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Graduate Double Bass Applicant Requirements
Pre-Screening Recording
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate string applicants. All applicants are required to submit their pre-screening recordings online to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Repertoire Requirements
- One movement of solo work by Bach
- Two contrasting movements from a concerto
- Two orchestral excerpts
Live Auditions
The live audition requirements are the same as listed above. In the live audition, memorization of works such as the concerto and Bach is required.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Graduate Classical Guitar Applicant Requirements
Pre-Screening Recording
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate string applicants. All applicants are required to submit their pre-screening recordings online to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Repertoire Requirements
Master's of Music
- A substantial movement by J.S. Bach
- Two substantial pieces of the applicant’s choice
Doctor of Musical Arts
- Two contrasting movements from a single work of J.S. Bach
- Two contrasting movements from a sonata, suite or similar multi-movement work (Sor, Ponce, José, Castelnuove-Tedesco, Berkeley, Ginastera, Henze, Brouwer, Tippett, etc.) OR a substantial set of variations (19th century, Ponce, Britten, etc.)
- A substantial piece of the applicant’s choice
Live Auditions
The live audition requirements are the same as listed above. In the live audition, memorization of works such as the concerto and Bach is required.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Contact the Ritter Family Classical Guitar Program Visit the Strings page
Graduate Harp Applicant Requirements
Pre-Screening Recording
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate string applicants. All applicants are required to submit their pre-screening recordings online to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Repertoire Requirements
- Two contrasting pieces
- One orchestra excerpt
Live Auditions
The live audition requirements are the same as listed above.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Program overview
The College of Music at CU Boulder offers an Artist Diploma in String Quartet Performance for one preformed string quartet to work intensively with members of the renowned Takács Quartet and other members of the string faculty. The next application will be available in Fall 2021 for entry in Fall 2022. The Takács Graduate Quartet Residency is a two-year position generously funded by the Starling Foundation and Takács Society. While participating in the program, the graduate quartet will play recitals, perform in master classes, receive regular coaching and collaborate with other instrumentalists and composers. A generous travel budget provides the quartet with support for competitions and concert opportunities outside of Boulder.
Eligibilty for each member of the quartet
Minimum requirement: Bachelor’s Degree
Application timelines + requirements
Dec. 1, 2021: Online application completed by each member of the quartet
Jan. 1, 2022: Pre-screening materials due
- Pre-screening video format: YouTube links
- Repertoire: Three contrasting movements from different works that represent your quartet’s interests, values and overall mission
- Quartet resumé
All pre-screening materials (YouTube links + Quartet Resumé) are to be emailed directly to harumi.rhodes@colorado.edu by Jan. 1, 2022.
Mid-January: Pre-screening notifications/live audition invitations sent
January-March TBD: Live audition/interview with Takács Quartet members to be scheduled individually
Note: The Artist Diploma in Solo Instrumental Performance is offered for violin, viola, cello, double bass and guitar.
Pre-Screening Recording
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate string applicants. All applicants are required to submit their pre-screening recordings online to the Graduate Application by Dec. 1.
Repertoire Requirements
Violin
- A movement of a concerto: Beethoven, Romantic or 20th Century
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach sonata or partita
- A 20th or 21st century work of applicant's choice, post 1950
- Additional piece of applicant's choice (such as a show piece)
Viola
- A movement of a 20th century concerto
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach solo suite, sonata or partita
- A movement of a sonata
- Additional piece of applicant’s choice, post 1980
Cello
- A movement of a Classical or Romantic concerto
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach solo suite
- A 20th or 21st century work of applicant's choice
Double Bass
- One movement of solo work by Bach
- Two contrasting movements from a concerto
- All excerpts from the list below:
- One movement from Bach Cello Suite and Concerto 1st movement
- Bach 2nd Orchestral Suite (Double and Badinerie)
- Mozart 35 (1st mvt, opening to measure 66; 4th mvt, measure 134 to the end)
- Beethoven 5 (3rd mvt, Scherzo and Trio)
- Beethoven 9 (4th mvt, recitative and March)
- Brahms 1 (1st mvt, Letter E to mm.189; 2nd mvt, measure 46 to 60)
- Strauss Heldenleben (#9 to 6 after #12, 2 before #61 to #70, #77 to #78)
Guitar
- Two contrasting movements from a single work of J.S. Bach
- Two contrasting movements from a sonata, suite or similar multi-movement work (Sor, Ponce, José, Castelnuove-Tedesco, Berkeley, Ginastera, Henze, Brouwer, Tippett, etc.) OR a substantial set of variations (19th century, Ponce, Britten, etc.)
- A substantial piece of the applicant’s choice
IMPORTANT: When filling out the university application, violin applicants should request in the “Statement of Purpose” their preference for the violin professor with whom they would like to study
Live Auditions
The live audition requirements are the same as listed above. In the live audition, memorization of works such as the concerto and Bach is required.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Degree Sheet
Note: applications are not accepted for Artist Diploma in Chamber Music Performance for double bass, harp and guitar.
Repertoire Requirements
Violin
- A movement of a concerto: Beethoven, Romantic or 20th Century
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach sonata or partita
- A 20th or 21st century work of applicant's choice, post 1950
- Additional piece of applicant's choice (such as a show piece)
- Chamber music repertoire list and full resume (please submit with application materials)
Viola
- A movement of a 20th century concerto
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach solo suite, sonata or partita
- A movement of a sonata
- Additional piece of applicant’s choice, post 1980
- Chamber music repertoire list and full resume (please submit with application materials)
Cello
- A movement of a Classical or Romantic concerto
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach solo suite
- A 20th or 21st century work of applicant's choice
Chamber music repertoire list and full resume (please submit with application materials)
Degree Sheet
Note: The Artist Diploma in Orchestral Performance is offered for violin, viola, cello, double bass and harp.
Pre-Screening Recording
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate string applicants. All applicants are required to submit their pre-screening recordings online to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Repertoire Requirements
Violin
- A movement of a concerto: Beethoven, Romantic or 20th Century
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach sonata or partita
- A 20th or 21st century work of applicant's choice, post 1950
- Additional piece of applicant's choice (such as a show piece)
- 4 excerpts from the list below:
- Don Juan (first page)
- Mozart 39 (1st mvt, m.26 - C; 4th mvt, opening to B)
- Mendelssohn Scherzo (opening to E)
- Prokofiev Classical Symphony (1st mvt, opening to H; 4th mvt, opening to D)
- Schumann 2, Scherzo (opening to m.54)
- Brahms Symphony 4 (1st mvt ,m.392-end; 3rd mvt, up to C)
- Copland Symphony 3 (4th mvt., m.89-93)
- Mahler 5th (1st mvt, #7 to #11)
Viola
- A movement of a 20th century concerto
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach solo suite, sonata or partita
- A movement of a sonata
- Additional piece of applicant’s choice, post 1980
- 4 excerpts from the list below:
- Beethoven 3 (3rd mvt, beginning to letter B)
- Beethoven 5 (2nd mvt m. 1-10, 49-59, and 98-106)
- Berlioz Roman Carnival (reh.1-4)
- Brahms Haydn (Variations V and VII)
- Mendelssohn Scherzo (beginning to letter D)
- Mozart 35 (1st mvt, beginning to measure 66; 4th mvt, m. 134-181)
- Ravel Daphnis and Chloe (reh. 158-166 and 212-218)
- Strauss Don Juan (beginning to letter D)
- Tchaikovsky 6 (1st mvt, m.19-88)
Cello
- A movement of a Classical or Romantic concerto
- Two contrasting movements of a Bach solo suite
- A 20th or 21st century work of applicant's choice
- 4 excerpts from the list below:
- Strauss: Don Juan (first page)
- Strauss: Ein Heldenleben (first page)
- Mendelssohn Scherzo
- Mozart 35 (mvt IV)
- Beethoven 5 (mvt II)
- Beethoven 5 (mvt III)
- Verdi Requiem (Offertorio)
- Debussy (La Mer)
Double Bass
- One movement of solo work by Bach
- Two contrasting movements from a concerto
- All excerpts from the list below:
- One movement from Bach Cello Suite and Concerto 1st movement
- Bach 2nd Orchestral Suite (Double and Badinerie)
- Mozart 35 (1st mvt, opening to measure 66; 4th mvt, measure 134 to the end)
- Beethoven 5 (3rd mvt, Scherzo and Trio)
- Beethoven 9 (4th mvt, recitative and March)
- Brahms 1 (1st mvt, Letter E to mm.189; 2nd mvt, measure 46 to 60)
- Strauss Heldenleben (#9 to 6 after #12, 2 before #61 to #70, #77 to #78)
Harp
- All excerpts from the list below:
- Bartok Concerto for Orchestra
- Berlioz Symphony Fantastic
- Lucia di Lammermoor
- Tzigane
- Alborada Del Gracioso
- Salome
- Symphony in 3 Movements
- La Forza
- Tristan and Isolde
- Fire Music, Wagner
IMPORTANT: When filling out the university application, violin applicants should request in the “Statement of Purpose” their preference for the violin professor with whom they would like to study
Live Auditions
The live audition requirements are the same as listed above. In the live audition, memorization of works such as the concerto and Bach is required.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Degree Sheet
Music Theory–Graduate
MM Theory applicants must submit the following by December 1:
- Two Scholarly Writing Samples: The writing samples (research papers, thesis excerpts, etc.) should demonstrate ability in critical thinking and argumentation. Ideally, at least one of the samples should involve music analysis and/or explore music-theoretic issues. Writing samples may be emailed to musicapp@colorado.edu or submitted to the Graduate Application. If emailing materials, please be sure the filename is in the following format: Last Name, First Name - Program, File Name (example: "smith, john - theory, writing sample.pdf").
- Required Test Scores: GRE scores are encouraged, but not required for applicants to the Fall 2021 semester. TOEFL scores (required if your native language is not English) should be sent directly from the testing agency. The University institution code is 4841 and the College of Music department code is 2404. For international applicants, the minimum TOEFL score for admission is 80.
- Assistantship Application: Applicants seeking assistantship consideration must also submit a Theory Teaching Assistant Application, available here. An interview in person is highly recommended for those applying for a Theory Assistantship. The interview will include sight-singing, demonstration of keyboard skills (harmonic progressions, simple keyboard textures, etc.), as well as discussion of the applicant’s theory and teaching background. The interview typically takes place after admission, at the invitation of the department; funds for travel to CU are often available for this purpose.
If you have any further questions, please email Keith Waters, Department Chair, at keith.waters@colorado.edu.
Graduate Degree Sheet
The purpose of the certificate is to provide a curricular framework for advanced studies in music theory along with formal acknowledgement of these studies, without the more extended requirements of the master's in music theory.
Students applying for the certificate should have an interest in music theory and theory pedagogy, facility with common analytical techniques and an ability to learn advanced concepts. Master's, doctoral and PhD graduates with theory certificates will have an advantage for positions that include theory and aural skills teaching. To begin the application for the Certificate in Music Theory, please fill out the Music Theory Declaration Form.
Curriculum
The curriculum consists of the 12 credit hours below. All MM and DMA degree programs already require at least three credit hours in music theory. Students pursuing this graduate certificate would typically enroll in an additional six to nine credit hours. For current students, courses taken before applying for the certificate will be counted.
- 3 credits. Music Theory Pedagogy (MUSC 6051).
- 6 credits. Two out of three of the following:
- Schenkerian Analysis (MUSC 5151)
- Post-tonal Theory and Analysis (MUSC 5071)
- A further elective from Topics in Music Analysis (MUSC 5151) for MM students or Advanced Topics in Music Theory (MUSC 6801) for DMA and PhD students.
- 3 credits. One-semester of Special Studies, leading to a research project and public presentation of research.
Admissions requirements
The program is only available to MM, DMA and PhD students in the College of Music. Students may apply for the program with their application to the college or once they are already enrolled. The application will consist of
- Statement of Purpose
- Academic transcript(s)
- Two scholarly writing samples
Academic performance in graduate courses at CU Boulder will also be taken into account for students who are already enrolled.
For further information, please contact Keith Waters (keith.waters@colorado.edu), chair of the Theory Department.
Voice and Opera–Graduate
Voice Audition Dates
- January 28 and 29 (live)
Graduate Voice Applicant Requirements
Pre-Screening Recording
Pre-screening recordings are required for all graduate voice applicants. Recordings will not be reviewed until the online application and supporting materials have been received. Live auditions will be granted to applicants chosen from these recordings. Applicants will be notified of the faculty decision no later than the Friday before December 25.
Pre-Screening Requirements
- The pre-screening recording should contain three to four contrasting pieces of varying styles and languages, with at least one art song on the recording. Please announce your name and selections at the beginning of the recording.
- A comprehensive list of previously studied repertoire
- A comprehensive performance resume, with categories listed by type (e.g. opera, recital, oratorio, musical, young artist program, etc.), and including location and dates. Applicants are required to upload the documents listed above along with their pre-screening recordings to the Graduate Application. The deadline for submission is December 1.
Live Auditions
Doctoral & Artist Diploma Applicants
- Three art songs in three different languages
- Two arias from opera and/or oratorio (in any language)
- Any number of additional pieces of the candidate's choice of any genre in any language
- At least one piece must be in English
- Total of at least 20 minutes of music
Please note that the actual audition time may be shorter.
Master of Music Applicants
- Candidates auditioning live must offer five pieces. They must include:
- Three art songs in three different languages
- One aria from an opera or oratorio (in any language)
- One piece of the candidate's choice of any genre in any language
- One of the five pieces must be in English
Accompanists
- An accompanist will be provided for the graduate voice audition, or applicants may choose to use their own accompanist. The latter option is, however, discouraged. You will have the opportunity to rehearse with your accompanist before the audition.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. The voice area offers a weekend devoted to graduate auditions, faculty master classes, and other events which auditioners are urged to attend. However, additional audition times are also available on some Fridays and Saturdays in February. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition when a live audition is not possible. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact a member of the faculty directly to discuss possible options.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Audition guidelines for the Artist Diploma in Opera and Solo Vocal Performance are the same as the guidelines for the DMA in Voice Performance. Please see the above.
Woodwinds–Graduate
Audition requirements for 2022 flute applicants
- Pre-screening required: due December 1 (repertoire below)
- Live or virtual auditions: January 21 and February 11 (repertoire below)
Pre-screening recording
Please prepare a range of selections for your audition, including:
- Mozart: Concerto in G Major, K. 313 or D Major, K. 314 (first movement, only)
- One contrasting piece (solo or etude)
- Two standard orchestral excerpts
Note: Piano accompaniment is not necessary.
It’s important that you record these selections with a high-quality microphone. If you would like to include other pieces of your choice, these will be listened to. Please feel free to submit supporting materials (optional), such as a résumé or biography.
All pre-screening recordings must be submitted online to the Graduate Application on or before December 1. Students are encouraged to upload supporting materials along with their recordings.
Live auditions and recorded auditions for Fall 2022
Students invited to the in-person auditions will be notified of their acceptance to the auditions by late December.
Required repertoire (live auditions and recorded auditions for Fall 2022, only)
- Mozart: Concerto in G Major, K. 313 or D Major, K. 314 (first and second movements plus cadenza)
- Two contrasting pieces [one must be by a diverse BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) composer*]
- Four standard orchestral excerpts of your choice
*These two lists contain many options for students to choose from:
- Flute music by Black composers
- Flute music by Black composers (compiled by Savannah Rose Ridley)
Live auditions are strongly preferred. Students who are unable to travel to Boulder for a live audition may submit a high-quality recorded audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
Graduate degree sheets
Graduate Clarinet Applicant Requirements
Pre-screening recordings are required of all graduate clarinet applicants, and should be submitted online to the Graduate Application on or before December 1.
Repertoire should include 2-3 standard repertoire works from live performances and/or studio sessions, and individual movements or excerpts from longer works are fine. At least one selection should be with piano or orchestral accompaniment, and variety of musical styles is important. Also, submit 3-5 short standard orchestral excerpts. You may submit audio or audio/video. The total length of your pre-screening recording need not exceed 10 minutes, and it is fine if it is longer.
Piano Accompaniment
If you wish to use a pianist, Professor Silver can supply names and contact information of suitable pianists in the area. Due to college-wide auditions happening concurrently and a shortage of suitable personnel, we regret we cannot provide accompanists.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
2021 Applicants: Please see updates to assistantship requirements here
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Graduate Oboe Applicant Requirements
Pre-screening recordings are not required for graduate oboe applicants.
Live Auditions
Auditions are an important part of determining scholarship and other award assignment. Applicants should be prepared to play several works, approximately 12-15 minutes of music.
Required Repertoire
- Mozart Concerto, movement I, exposition; movement II
- Brahms Violin Concerto, movement II
- Ravel "Le Tombeau de Couperin," movement I and III
- Further repertoire of your choice.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Graduate Bassoon Applicant Requirements
Pre-Screening Audition
Pre-screening is required for all graduate bassoon applicants. An audio or video recording should be submitted online to the Graduate Application on or before December 1. Pre-screening repertoire should include 2-3 standard works from live performances and/or studio sessions, and individual movements or excerpts from longer works. At least one selection should be with piano or orchestral accompaniment. Repertoire should represent a variety of musical styles. Also, submit 3-5 short standard orchestral excerpts. The total length of the pre-screening recording should be 10-15 minuets. Longer recordings are acceptable. A live pre-screening may be arranged by contacting Professor Ishikawa at ishikawa@colorado.edu.
Live Audition
A live audition is strongly preferred and is required to qualify for a Teaching Assistantship. Exceptions will be considered for international applicants. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact Dr. Ishikawa directly at ishikawa@colorado.edu.
Repertoire must include a minimum of three solo movements, one each representing the Baroque, Classical, and Romantic/Modern eras as well as five orchestral excerpts from any standard repertoire. The total length of a live audition is 20 minutes.
If you wish to use a pianist, Professor Ishikawa can supply the names and contact information for pianists in the area. The College of Music cannot provide accompanists.
Recorded Audition
A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition to the Graduate Application. Repertoire requirements for a recorded audition are identical to the live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify a candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in digital format with high quality audio.
*Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
Graduate Degree Sheets
Graduate Saxophone Applicant Requirements
Pre-screening recordings are not required for graduate saxophone applicants.
Live Auditions
It is appropriate to perform several different pieces representing “standard” classical saxophone repertoire. Include a variety of styles. You should prepare approximately 20 minutes of music.
Repertoire List
Please bring a repertoire list with you at the time of your audition. Include pieces you have performed, pieces you have studied, etudes studied and chamber music.
- Recommended Music (not limited to the list below)
- Classical
Desenclos – Prelude, Cadence et Finale
Benson – Aeolian Song
Tomasi – Concerto
Harbison - Sonata
Swerts - KLONOS
Yoshimatsu - Fuzzybird Sonata
Decruck - Sonata
Unaccompanied works by Noda, Carav
- Jazz (mandatory for DMA applicants, option for MM applicants)
Transcribed solo of your choice (Charlie Parker Omnibook, Dexter Gordon, Sonny Stitt, etc. )
Prepare at least two tunes demonstrating contrasting styles
Sight-reading
Note: All DMA applicants will be scheduled for two auditions: a 10-minute classical audition with the woodwind faculty to be followed immediately by a 10-minute jazz audition with the jazz faculty. MM applicants: Please notify the Graduate Office when you are contacted to schedule your audition if you plan to perform jazz repertoire so that we can schedule you for a separate jazz audition, as well. A rhythm section will be provided for the jazz portion of the audition. Applicants are required to provide copies of lead sheets for the other musicians at the live audition.
Accompanists
Having a pianist for your audition is encouraged though not required. Most auditions are held without a pianist. If you choose to perform with piano you must bring your own accompanist.
Recorded Auditions
Live auditions are strongly preferred. A recorded audition (live performance or studio recording) may be submitted in place of a live audition. Please see the Recorded Audition Guidelines for information on submitting a recording.
A live audition is required to qualify for Teaching Assistantships. Applicants unable to travel for a live audition should contact their respective faculty member directly. Requirements for a recorded audition are identical to a live audition. Editing within a movement is prohibited. Any indication of editing may disqualify the candidate from admission. The recording (audio/video) must be in a digital format with high quality audio.
Please note that while recorded auditions will be given full consideration, the best demonstration of your musical ability is through a live audition.
