Albert P. Smith Music Center is located at 142 Ransom Ave. NE. You can park in Ramp A (across the street) and we will provide you with a validation ticket. Parents and guardians are welcome to come, especially if they have any questions. They will have an opportunity to meet with the Music Department Program Director and an Academic Advisor to ask any questions they may have.
Overview of the Day
- Music Program Overview and Presentation
- Building Tour
- Placement Tests
- Auditions
- Individual Music Advising and Registration
Program Audition and Testing Information
The Associate of Music and Recording Technology Associate of Music requires an audition on a primary instrument or voice, a music theory placement test, and a piano placement test (unless the student is studying piano as their primary instrument).
The Digital Audio Certificate and Music and Entertainment Business programs do not require advanced study on a primary instrument or voice, and therefore, do not require an audition. Students should still attend a New Music Student Day for music theory and piano placement testing, advising, and registration.
Students in the Music and Theater Pathway may perform an audition and take placement tests, depending on their goals. Anyone planning on taking applied lessons must perform an audition.
Music Theory Placement Test Information
The test is to determine the best course placement for your success in our music theory courses. It is not possible to fail the test. You can use free drills/tests at musictheory.net to prepare. Some topics you will be asked about are:
- Reading notes on the treble and bass clef
- Identifying Rhythms and Time Signatures
- Key Signatures
- Major and Minor Scales
- Interval identification and notation
- Triad identification
Piano Placement Test Information
If you have never played the piano before, that is okay, it is not required. This test is for placement into the appropriate class for your success. You can simply tell us you have not played the piano before, and we will place you in Introduction to Piano so you can start with the fundamentals.
If you have some, or limited experience on the piano but want to attempt to test out of Introduction to Piano, you can prepare for the test. Some things on the test will be:
- Note identification on treble and bass clef
- Playing major and minor scales in five-finger position
- Performing rhythms
- Short sight reading using both hands
Note - this test is not applicable for students who are studying piano as their primary instrument.
Audition Information
Just like the placement tests, this is for placement into an appropriate level of applied study. You will not be rejected from the program, however, if you are placed in a lower level of study, it may take you longer to finish your degree.
Review the requirements for your primary instrument or voice to be as prepared as possible. If you are not able to perform all of the suggested repertoire, that is okay, please come prepared to perform music that best showcases your abilities. If you have any questions, please contact the Program Director or the faculty member listed on the audition information page.