Audition Portfolio Requirements - Postgraduate Music

Prepare for your audition by following the guidelines on this page.

This page contains application information about the following programmes:

 What you need to do:

  • Complete the Application for Admission AND
  • Submit a portfolio according to your specialisation. The portfolio requirements differ for each and are detailed below. Please see the criteria for video performances at the end of this page.
  • An interview may also be required. If so, the School of Music will contact you directly about scheduling an interview (in-person, telephone, or Zoom).

Note: If you have completed a University of Auckland Bachelor of Music, then you are not required to submit a portfolio. All you need to do is complete the Application for Admission.

Performance

Your audition portfolio consists of:

  • A statement of musical background
  • A reference from your current instrumental/music teacher* (your referee should comment on your musical work and your suitability for advanced research study).
  • Video performances for your audition (please see the Video section below for information on this requirement).

Composition

Your composition portfolio consists of:

  • A statement of musical background.
  • Two recent original compositions as individual PDF or .sib file types
  • You may also include audio recordings of the works as individual files (.m4v, .mov, .mp4, .wmv, .flv, .asf, .mpeg, .mpg, .mkv), or as Youtube / Vimeo links (these must be set to public and you must not delete these files).

Musicology and Music Education

Your portfolio consists of:

  • A statement of musical background.
  • A sample of your academic writing (2000 word minimum) as a single PDF file. This can be a recent essay or written assignment demonstrating your ability to write academically.

Studio Pedagogy

Your audition portfolio consists of:

  • A statement of musical background
  • A reference from your current instrumental/music teacher (your referee should comment on your musical work and your suitability for advanced research study).
  • A sample of your academic writing (2000 word minimum) as a single PDF file. This can be a recent essay or written assignment demonstrating your ability to write academically on the subject of musicology.
  • Video performances for your audition (please see the Video section below for information on this requirement).

Video

All video performance auditions must adhere to the following:

  • Upload your performances as three separate files or Youtube / Vimeo videos. If submitting Youtube / Vimeo video links, then these must be set to public and you must not delete these files.
  • The three pieces or movements must be of contrasting style.
  • Must be recent work (from the last 12 months).
  • Recorded in one take and unedited and/or unmodified.
  • If uploading recordings, then each file must be no greater than 500MB and in one of the following formats: .mov (QuickTime), .wmv (Windows Media Player), .mp4, or .m4v files.
  • You must review your recordings to ensure that they are of good quality, clearly audible, and represent your best work to date.
  • Works from recent recitals, examinations and live performances can be used.
  • Choose pieces that demonstrate your proficiency and overall musicianship; that highlight what you feel best represents your present standard of playing.
  • A maximum total of 15 minutes will be reviewed and assessed.
  • For some applicants a live audition in person may be required. You will be contacted via email if this is necessary.

Contact us

For queries about how to apply, admission, and enrolment, please visit Student Hubs or contact us online.

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