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Frequently Asked Questions

Who is required to audition?

Applicants applying to the following degree programs:

Music

Bachelor of Arts in Music
Bachelor of Music in Music Education | Music – Teacher Preparation (K-12)
Bachelor of Music in Performance

In collaboration with the School of Education:

Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Music
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Music
Five-year certification program in the Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing/Early Childhood Education and Music
Five-year certification program in Special Education/Early Childhood Education and Music
Five-year certification program in Urban Education with Early Childhood or Elementary Education and Music

Applicants who apply to the School of the Arts and Communication as undecided majors and who think that they might wish to major in music are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of Music to discuss program options, as well as course registration and lessons.

How do I schedule my audition?

In order to be eligible for an audition, you first must apply to the college–using the common app. Soon after you apply and once your TCNJ application portal is active, you will be able to schedule an audition through the portal. After you schedule an audition, you will receive a confirmation email with details to help you prepare for your audition. Those details can also be found here.

We strongly encourage you to audition as early as possible! Later audition dates tend to be in higher demand and are, therefore, more likely to fill up and close. Please note that candidates may only audition on one of the dates listed on the auctions page. Scheduling special auditions for individuals is not possible.

VERY IMPORTANT: It is IMPERATIVE that you check the email address that you listed on your application regularly. That is how you will receive communication from TCNJ’s Department of Music.

If you have any issues with scheduling an audition please e-mail musicdept@tcnj.edu.

Do I need an accompanist?

Instrumental auditions are performed without accompaniment. Vocalists are required to perform with accompaniment. See the VOICE audition requirements for instructions and/or assistance with your accompaniment.

Why do pianists & guitarists have special instructions?

Pianists and guitarists are required to declare a secondary track of vocal or instrumental study, and to audition in that area. This is primarily for ensemble placement. Please read the requirements carefully, and send your preference to musicdept@tcnj.edu, an audition for your secondary instrument will occur at a later date.  PIANISTS: please note that you are required to send a repertoire list and a letter of recommendation from your piano teacher to Dr. Tomoko Kanamaru, Coordinator of Keyboard Studies, at kanamaru@tcnj.edu.

When will I hear the results?

Soon after your audition, you will receive an email from the audition coordinator informing you of our recommendation to the Office of Admissions. You will be hearing from the Office of Admissions regarding their final decision, usually within 2-4 weeks of your audition, and no later than April 1.

Note: Ultimately, acceptance to the Department of Music is contingent upon acceptance to the College. You must successfully pass an audition in the Department of Music in order to be accepted into the music program as a major in music.