College of Music College of Music 
Deadlines Audition days Pre-Screening recordings Study area and certificate requirements
All applicants must apply to the University of Colorado and complete a College of Music Admission Application. Applications may be obtained online through the College of Music Admissions page. Auditions will not be scheduled until both applications have been received.
Note: If you’re already a student and want to audition for one of our ensembles, please visit the Ensembles page.
Auditions cannot be scheduled until your application is complete. To request an audition, send an email to graduate.music@colorado.edu including your full name, degree & program applying for, mailing address and phone number. You will be contacted once it has been verified that your application has been received.
Auditions and interviews for most majors will be held on Saturdays early in February. Graduate voice auditions have been scheduled for a weekend at the end of January. Additionally, auditions and interviews may be scheduled individually by communicating with the faculty representative for your area.
Note: Please contact the Collaborative Piano faculty for vocal coaching audition scheduling (margaret.mcdonald@colorado.edu)
Pre-screening recordings are required for the following areas and all pre-screening and recorded auditions must be uploaded in our application through the Digital Portfolio tab on the left side of the application.
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 are required for all PhD and DMA Applicants as well as Master's Theory Applicants. Writing samples should be uploaded as a supplemental file with the Graduate Application.
Pre-screening recordings are not required for all graduate trumpet applicants.
Please prepare the following repertoire:
Live auditions are strongly preferred, although 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.
Contact the Trumpet Studio Visit the Brass and Percussion page
Pre-screening recordings are not required for trombone or bass trombone applicants. Optional pre-screening recordings will be reviewed and assessed at your discretion.
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)
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)
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.
Contact the Trombone Studio Visit the Brass and Percussion page
Pre-screening recordings are not required for all graduate horn applicants.
Required Solo Work (Piano Accompaniment Optional)
Solo Work of Choice (Piano Accompaniment Optional)
A solo work of the candidate’s choice. This repertoire may include (but is not limited to):
Orchestral Excerpts
Please prepare the following excerpts:
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.
Pre-screening recordings are not required for all graduate tuba/euphonium applicants.
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.
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.
Contact the Tuba and Euphonium Studio Visit the Brass and Percussion page
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate percussion applicants. Recordings will not be reviewed until the online application and supporting materials have been received. Live auditions will be scheduled for applicants chosen from the pre-screening recordings.
A cumulative 3.0 GPA in undergraduate work is required for Merit Based Aid consideration for MM Percussion applicants
A cumulative 3.4 GPA in all previous college courses is required for Merit Based Aid consideration for DMA percussion applicants
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.
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.
Contact the Percusssion Studio Visit the Brass and Percussion page
Scores of original compositions along with recordings. Recordings should be of live music, not synthesized reproductions of orchestrations. Score and recordings must be uploaded with the Graduate Application.
Contact the Composition Department Visit the Composition page
Pre-screening audition videos should be prepared with the following content and specifications:
Applicants are required to upload their Pre-screening audition video online to the Graduate Application by December 1.
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.
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 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.
Submit the following prescreening material to the Graduate Application.
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.
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.
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.
Applicants are required to upload their additional materials along with their recordings to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Repertoire for the live audition is the same as listed above. A rhythm section will be provided for the live audition. Applicants are required to provide copies of lead sheets for the other musicians at the live audition.
Applicants will also provide a repertoire list, containing all the tunes the applicant feels they know well enough to play, if called to do so. Some tunes will be selected from that list for the audition.
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.
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.
Applicants are required to upload their additional materials along with their recordings to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Repertoire for the live audition is the same as listed above. A rhythm section will be provided for the live audition. Applicants are required to provide copies of lead sheets for the other musicians at the live audition.
Applicants will also provide a repertoire list, containing all the tunes the applicant feels they know well enough to play, if called to do so. Some tunes will be selected from that list for the audition.
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.
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.
Note: Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0 must submit a GRE scores to be considered for admission.
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.
Note: Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0 must submit a GRE scores to be considered for admission.
Total = 48 hours*
Note: 9 credit hours required for licensure may apply to the MME degree.
Contact Music Education Visit the Music Education page
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.
Scholarly Contributions by Recent PhD Students
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
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:
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.
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 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 - musicology, writing sample.pdf").
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate solo piano 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: A high quality VIDEO recording, 30 minutes in length minimum, of three major works in contrasting styles (Individual movements are acceptable).
All applicants are required to submit their pre-screening recordings to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Master of Music Applicants should prepare a program of at least 45 minutes, consisting of three or more contrasting works representative of various style periods. At the audition, the committee will select a portion of music to hear. 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 various style periods. At the audition, the committee will select a portion of music to hear. All works, except those composed since 1950, should be memorized.
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 (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.
A pre-screening recording is required for all graduate piano 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.
A high quality VIDEO recording, 30 minutes in length minimum, of three major works in contrasting styles (Individual movements are acceptable).
Additionally applicants are requested to submit 20 to 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.). In addition, examples of writing samples (e.g. class papers), if available, are also encouraged
Applicants are required to upload these examples along with their recordings to the Graduate Application by December 1.
Applicants should prepare a program of at least 45 minutes, consisting of three or more contrasting works representative of various style periods. At the audition, the committee will select a portion of music to hear. All works, except those composed since 1950, should be memorized.
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 (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.
Pre-screening recordings are required for all graduate collaborative piano 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.
The recording should feature the following repertoire:
Applicants are required to submit their pre-screening recordings to the Graduate Application. The deadline for submission is December 1.
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.
Applicants should indicate their repertoire selections using the online Audition Repertoire Form.
Questions regarding the collaborative piano program and the audition requirements can be sent to: collaborativepiano@colorado.edu.
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
Contact the Collaborative Piano Program Visit the Keyboard page
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Contact the Ritter Family Classical Guitar Program Visit the Strings page
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.
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.
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.
This program is for pre-formed quartets only. The quartet is required to submit a pre-screening recording to the Graduate Application by December 1. The recording should include a minimum of twenty minutes of total playing time and at least two complete works of contrasting style and period. The requirements are the same for the live audition. A live audition is recommended. Quartets unable to travel to Boulder for a live audition should contact Professor Erika Eckert. A biography of the quartet and of each member of the quartet, and three recommending letters from teachers and/or coaches are required. Each member of the quartet must submit an individual application to the University of Colorado Boulder.
Note: No changes in personnel are accepted once application materials have been received.
MM Theory applicants must submit the following by December 1:
If you have any further questions, please email Keith Waters, Department Chair, at keith.waters@colorado.edu.
Beginning in Fall 2018, the College of Music is offering a Graduate Certificate in Music Theory. 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.
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.
The program is only available to enrolled 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
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.
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.
Please note that the actual audition times will be shorter.
Live auditions are strongly preferred. The voice area has a weekend devoted to graduate auditions and faculty masterclasses, which auditioners are urged to attend. Other audition times are also available on some Saturdays in February and some Fridays. 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 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.
A pre-screening recording is required for all out-of-state graduate flute applicants. Recordings will not be reviewed until the online application and supporting materials have been received. Live audition will be scheduled for applicants chosen from the pre-screening recordings.
It is important that you record these selections with a high-quality microphone. Piano accompaniment is encouraged. If you would like to include other pieces of your choice, these will be listened to. Supporting materials such as a resume or biography are also welcomed.
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.
Students invited to the in-person auditions will be notified of their acceptance to the auditions on or before January 15. Auditions will be held in 30-minute time slots, accommodating time for both the formal audition and a follow-up interview and mini-lesson. No accompanists please.
Live auditions for graduates flutists:
(Memorization is encouraged)
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. Accompanists are not encouraged for these auditions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Pre-screening recordings are not required, but could be valuable for graduate oboe applicants who are unsure if their playing is of a suitable level for acceptance. This recording should be submitted online to the Graduate Application on or before December 1. This will be evaluated on an ADVISORY basis. This is not a preliminary round that prevents applicants from auditioning further if they so wish; the intention is to advise the applicant if they are of a suitable standard.
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
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.
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.
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. To schedule a live audition, send an email to gradmusc@colorado.edu and include your name, instrument, and degree track (MM, DMA).
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.
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.
A pre-screening recording is not required, but encouraged for graduate saxophone applicants. Pre- screening recordings must be submitted online to the Graduate Application by December 1.
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.
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.
Desenclos – Prelude, Cadence et Finale
Benson – Aeolian Song
Tomasi – Concerto
Harbison - Sonata
Swerts - KLONOS
Yoshimatsu - Fuzzybird Sonata
Decruck - Sonata
Unaccompanied works by Noda, Carav
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.
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.
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.
