The Audition

Your Prepared Song

You will be asked to learn a short folk song. We will send you the sheet music and a recording of the song in advance and, at the audition, you will be asked to sing this song unaccompanied. We will be listening for your tone, ability to hold pitch, and how confidently you use your voice. We may sing a simple harmony part alongside you, to see how steadily you can hold your melody. 

Musicianship Exercises

These are designed to understand your musical instinct. They may include:

• Singing back a short tune we play to you;

• Clapping back a rhythm;

• Singing a simple melody while another part is added;

• Identifying notes within a chord.

You do not need any prior training - these exercises focus on your musical instincts and adaptability.

Singing as part of a group

You will be asked to prepare a short section of choral music. We will send you the sheet music, a recording of the song and recording of your part in advance. At the audition, you will sing this with the audition panel. We will be listening for your ability to hold a musical line confidently and also to see how you respond to those you are singing with.

Sight-Reading

We will give you a very simple sight-reading exercise. This is to find out the level of your experience reading from music- it is not a pass or fail!!

A Chat

We will have a chat with you about your singing, your interests, and how you work in a team. We want to understand your enthusiasm and readiness for the programme.