These requirements are for students auditioning to start their studies at the Academy in September 2012. Until specified otherwise, these requirements also apply for auditions in future years. Some audition requirements may change: please check back here regularly. You are welcome to contact the Registry or the department administrator if you have any queries. The closing date for receipt of applications is in our ‘Key Dates’ list.

The precise format for auditions will be different according to your Principal Study. In most cases auditions will last from 20 to 30 minutes. As time is limited for some auditions, you may be interrupted before you have performed a complete piece.

In addition to the requirements below you may also be given sight reading in your audition.

Violin: Undergraduates

First movement (with cadenza) of a concerto by Haydn or Mozart and a contrasting piece. Before the audition date you will also receive a short technical study which you may be asked to perform.

Violin: Postgraduates

First movement of a major post-1800 concerto and a contrasting piece.

Viola and Cello

First movement of a major concerto and a contrasting piece.

Double Bass

One piece of your own choice plus two excerpts from orchestral repertoire.

If you are auditioning to become an undergraduate:

1. Musicianship and keyboard skills tests may be required.

These normally are a set of tests of increasing difficulty. The Academy regrets that it cannot issue specimen tests. Please bring a short piano piece to demonstrate your level of keyboard skills.

2. Written paper for undergraduates (BMus, Year-In, Organ Foundation)

You will be required to take a 50-minute written paper which comprises harmonisation of a simple melody and a choice of short essay questions of a general musical nature. You will be permitted to use a dictionary. Sorry, we cannot issue specimen papers.

Master of Music (MMus) applications:

There are specific requirements for written work which must be sent to the Registry to support your application.