Frequently Asked Questions

Categories

Audition and Admission Procedures

Majoring in Music at Appalachian

Common Questions from Parents

The First Semester

Audition and Admission Procedures

What kind of student is accepted into the Hayes School of Music?

The Hayes School of Music attracts students who exhibit a high level of musicianship and artistry that extends beyond mere talent. They possess a strong work ethic, are self-motivated and engaged in their learning, and work well in collaboration both with their peers and those in authority. Many incoming students will have received accolades for their musicianship in high school, such as a first-chair position for their instrument.

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How do I apply to Appalachian State University?

Application for admission to Appalachian State University should be made in the fall of the senior year in high school. To obtain the appropriate application forms, contact Appalachian's Office of Admissions.

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If I am accepted to the university, am I automatically accepted into the Hayes School of Music?

No. Acceptance by the university is a requirement for each student, regardless of the major. The Hayes School of Music requires that all students desiring to pursue a degree in music audition before members of the appropriate applied music faculty for acceptance into the music degree program.

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What does audition day entail?

Your audition time will last about 10 minutes, but your visit includes much more. Audition days include a "Question and Answer" session with the dean for parents and students, opportunities to talk with representatives from the Office of Admissions and the Office of Financial Aid, and a meeting specific to your chosen academic program. You will receive a complete schedule once you request an audition, so you can plan your visit accordingly. At a minimum, expect to spend 2-3 hours on campus.

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Am I required to audition to play in the bands or orchestra, or to sing in a choir as a non-music major?

The Hayes School of Music auditions are not required if you desire to perform in the bands or orchestras, or choirs, or if you wish to register for chamber music, applied instruction, or classroom courses as a non-music major. However, the band, orchestra and choir directors do audition students for acceptance into those organizations. Ensemble auditions are held at the beginning of every semester. Ensemble audition repertoire and schedules can be found here.

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What do I do if I cannot attend a scheduled audition day?

If necessary, auditions may be scheduled on other days, if granted by the appropriate applied music faculty.

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What do I perform for the audition?

The audition in your major performance area is the most important factor in determining whether or not you will be accepted as a music major. The audition committee consists of faculty members from your area of concentration. Except for vocal auditions, an accompanist is not required. Please see your applied area for specific audition requirements.

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Is there a music theory placement examination?

Yes. All incoming freshmen are required to take the On-line Music Theory Placement Test. Only students who pass the test may take MUS1001: Music Theory I and MUS1007: Aural Skills I, which is offered every semester. Those who do not pass must first complete MUS1000: Elements of Music Theory. Students are asked to complete this exam before May 1.

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Majoring in Music at Appalachian

What will it be like to be a music major at Appalachian?

As a music major in Appalachian's Hayes School of Music, you will be taught by full-time faculty in your major, as well as in other areas of the music program. Our full-time, resident performing faculty members share a common commitment to dedicated teaching and concern for each student's individual progress. Individual attention, detailed musical and technical development, and the encouragement of each student's artistic potential in performance serve as the foundation of the program. Trained at leading universities and conservatories, Appalachian professors serve as mentors and role models in their teaching and performance.

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Are solo performance opportunities encouraged?

Yes. Opportunities for solo performance include weekly studio classes and area recitals which provide a format for students to present single works. The weekly music seminar showcases superior student performers and is attended by the entire Hayes School of Music student body. In their Junior and Senior Recitals, performance majors present partial and entire concert programs, respectively. Special recitals are often presented by ambitious students in addition to the degree requirement recitals. Master Classes with noted guest artists are held every year as well.

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Will I have easy access to faculty members who can assist me in my professional development?

From the time you enter the Hayes School of Music, you will be able to confer with full-time faculty members. The faculty will help you develop a plan for each semester during an advisement period that precedes pre-registration for each. Members of the faculty also are available by appointment to counsel and advise you when you have questions.

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Will I have opportunities to perform outside of the Hayes School of Music?

Students are encouraged to be entrepreneurs and pursue performing opportunities in regional orchestras (by auditioning for vacant positions), performing in area churches and by creating work opportunities through their solo and chamber ensemble preparations. Orchestral vacancies and work opportunities can be found posted on bulletin boards throughout the Broyhill Music Center.

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Common Questions from Parents

Are there extra expenses for music majors?

There are no additional fees for private instruction (14 lessons per semester). However, all students incur expenses for the purchase of music and for accompanying services. The accompanying costs vary, but vocalists usually incur more accompanying fees than instrumentalists. Instrumental music majors will be expected to own their instrument and purchase supplies. Marching band members must purchase a pair of shoes, a pair of gloves, and a knit shirt. For most performing ensembles, male music majors must own a traditional black tuxedo; females must own a conservative black dress. The student's applied music professor will recommend specific items for purchase.

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How much time is required for ensemble participation?

Ensembles are classes, and students receive academic credit for participating. The larger ensembles meet twice a week during the school day for 2-4 hours of rehearsal. Smaller ensembles meet once a week for 1 hour of rehearsal. Students register for the ensembles just as they do for classes. Extra rehearsals are held to a minimum (usually, one dress rehearsal per performance).

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How much practice time is expected of music majors?

Music majors are expected to practice their major instrument/voice type at least 4 hours per credit hour every week while enrolled in applied lessons for credit. Performance majors register for 4 credit hours (16 hours per week), music education and music therapy majors for 2 credit hours (8 hours per week), and industry majors for 1 credit hour (4 hours per week).

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Are there tips for how my child can prepare for majoring in music?

Yes. The National Association of Schools of Music has compiled a list of 11 tips for a successful start that high school students should begin using right away. We encourage both you and your child to review them.

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The First Semester

What classes will I take my first semester?

Unlike many other majors, music majors begin studies in the major area during the first semester at Appalachian. During the orientation session, our faculty advisor will assist in the preparation of a schedule for the first semester. Depending on the program of study that the student has selected, he or she will register for private lessons, ensemble performance, music theory, music methods (e.g., piano class), and a couple of core curriculum courses (e.g., history, English). Most music majors take 12-14 semester hours during the first semester.

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What can I do now to help get ready?

The National Association of Schools of Music has compiled a list of 11 tips for a successful start that high school students should begin using right away. We encourage you to review them – and use them!

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