Entrance Audition Information
The Music Department does not deny anyone the opportunity to enter our programs. All music majors and minors will be accepted upon successful completion of an audition. The audition is designed to allow the faculty members of the music department the opportunity to assess your musical skills and background so that we may better advise you to the most suitable courses and degree track.
Music Scholarship Information
Music Scholarships are granted to music majors only. In order to be considered for a music scholarship, students must audition before March 1. The number of Music Scholarships is limited and they are awarded quickly so after March 1 there is no guarantee of available money.
There are a limited number of Pep Band Scholarships that are available for music majors and non music majors. Those are awarded at the beginning of the academic year. To qualify students must audition for the Pep Band Director during the first week of the fall semester.
The Audition Process
Most students audition on the same day they visit our campus for a tour and meet with an Admissions Counselor. Auditions can also be scheduled any time during the academic year at a time that fits the schedules of the prospective student and parents as well as members of the Bellarmine Music Department Faculty. We also encourage prospective students to sit in on a music class during the campus visit.
The audition process generally takes 45-60 minutes to complete and includes
An interview
Performing for select music department faculty members
A short lesson with faculty member of the same instrument
A brief, oral assessment of music theory and musicianship
A discussion about the student's academic and career goals. Parents are welcome to be present during this part
Video or audio CDs, MP3s, or other digital media may be submitted in lieu of personal audition only with advanced permission from the Music Department Chair.
Auditions will be scheduled only if your application to Bellarmine University has been received.
More about the Music Theory Assessment
This is the part of the audition process that makes a lot of students nervous. Our advice: don't be nervous! We're aware that many incoming students haven't had the luxury of a music theory class or years of private lessons. That's why we designed an introductory theory course for students with little to no background in music theory. By completing this course you will be prepared to enter and successfully complete the required music theory sequence of courses.
