Solo pieces:
The bowed strings (violin, viola, cello, and double bass) audition at the Hayes School of Music consists of at least two solos of the student's choice that contrast in tempo and/or historical style. The two compositions may be written by a single composer (e.g., two movements from the same work with contrasting tempos) or by two different composers (preferably from differing style historical periods). The chosen literature should demonstrate the student’s present skill level. Time may not permit entire movements from concertos/sonatas to be performed in the auditions, but rather major compositional sections, such as the first major section of a sonata or concerto.
Double Bassists may select a Jazz Standard to perform as one of their two solo selections. Please perform the melody, and walk a bass line for one chorus. Use of a backing track such as iRealPro is acceptable. Soloing for one chorus is optional.
Scales/arpeggios:
Additionally, the student should prepare a two-octave or three-octave scale of the student’s choice.
Violin and viola students are asked to prepare a 3-octave scale of their choice with the tonic arpeggio. Scales and arpeggios should be memorized, should represent the student’s current skill level, and should demonstrate the student’s attention to intonation and shifting technique.
Cello students are asked to prepare a 3-octave scale of their choice. The scales should be played by memory.
Bass students are asked to prepare a 2-octave scale of their choice.
Sight-reading will be included for all string auditions.
Optional:
If desired, the auditioning student may elect to perform a non-classical, third solo for the audition (e.g., a selection of jazz, folk, traditional, or other types of non-classical music) that represents the student's musical interests and skills. This not a requirement. The student may also elect to perform an étude or technical study as their third piece - one that reflects their current level of technical skill. As well, prospective double bass majors may also demonstrate their musical abilities on electric bass as the optional third piece.
For questions regarding these requirements, please contact Dr. Eric Koontz at koontzee@appstate.edu, Coordinator of the String Area. The Hayes School of Music string faculty can advise aspiring music students with suggestions and information about repertoire to be performed in the audition.
- In addition, the string faculty may be consulted by communicating with the following faculty members:
- Dr. Nancy Bargerstock, violin (bargrstockne@appstate.edu)
- Dr. Eric Koontz, viola (koontzee@appstate.edu)
- Dr. Ellie Wee, cello (weeeh@appstate.edu)
- Dr. Adam Booker, double bass (bookeras1@appstate.edu)
(updated July, 2024)