Apply and Audition

Prospective undergraduate students interested in studying music or music education at Buffalo State must apply through the Undergraduate Admissions Office.

Apply now

 In addition to completing the undergraduate application process, a short audition and interview is required prior to acceptance into the music or music education program.

Audition Information

The Music Department receives many more applications than we are able to admit. Students are encouraged to apply to Buffalo State as early as possible and, once admitted academically, to schedule an audition as early as possible.

Audition Dates | Audition Fee | Interview | Repertoire Examples and Guidelines | Contact

2012-2013 Music Audition Dates

• November 9, 2012 (Spring 2013 Admission Only)
• January 27, 2013 (New York CIty)
• February 1, 2013
• February 8, 2013
• March 9, 2013
• April 6, 2013
• April 20, 2013

Audition Fee

$15 for campus audition; $40 for NYC audition

Interview

All applicants will be interviewed. The interview will consist of questions regarding your musical background (including ensemble experience and private study), academic experience, career goals, and any teaching/mentoring/volunteering activities.

Essay
At the interview, all applicants must provide a prepared essay about their most influential teacher. This person does not have to be a music teacher, but needs to be a person who has had a profound influence on your life. 

In this essay, describe your relationship with this person and why this person has been a positive role model, guide, and inspiration. Memorable characteristics and educational experiences are also important to mention.

Formatting
Font: Times or Times New Roman
Font size: 12
Spacing: Double
Length: 500-750 words

Repertoire Examples and Guidelines

• Bassoon
• Cello
• Clarinet
• Double String Bass
• Flute
• Guitar (Classical)
• Harp
• Horn
• Oboe
• Percussion (Mallets, Timpani, Snare Drum)
• Piano
• Saxophone (Alto/Tenor)
• Trombone/Euphonium
• Trumpet/Coronet
• Tuba
• Viola
• Violin
• Voice

While you do not need to perform the exact pieces listed, you must perform works of a similar and comparable difficulty level. The pieces listed are based on the NYSSMA Manual Grades 5 and 6.

Auditioning individuals may be asked to sight-read.

Performance scholarships are available.

To schedule an audition or a diagnostic test, call (716) 878-6401. Note: Students may only pick one audition date.

Contact