Audition Information
Vocal study for Music Performance and Music Education primarily focuses on the classical repertoire art song. There are opportunities to participate in musical theatre at the college and some repertoire from this genre may be used for lessons. Degree repertoire for the BA student is a result of a discussion with the assigned vocal instructor.
We ask that for the purpose of the audition, songs from the musical comedy or popular repertoire NOT be used, with the exception of options offered below. It is recommended that you consult with your music teacher or private lesson teacher when choosing and preparing your repertoire. We also invite you to contact Brandi Diggs (diggsb@tcnj.edu), Coordinator of Vocal Studies and Artist-Teacher of Voice for guidance in selecting repertoire and to inquire about scheduling a free sample lesson prior to your audition.
Required
Two memorized selections with piano accompaniment are required for all prospective voice majors.
- The first required song in English may be a classical art song*, or a folk song, spiritual, or hymn.
- For the contrasting selection, the following suggestions are acceptable:
another classical art song* in another language (such as Italian, French, or German), or a piece from the sacred repertoire in Latin.
a selection from the African American, Latin American, or Native American musical traditions, as well as selections from other world cultures, either in English or another language.
the selections chosen should show the candidate’s skill in musical ability, breath management, tone production, language skills, and communication skills.
Optional
A third selection of sixteen bars of a musical theater selection may be included by the auditionee, if desired.
Accompaniment
Taped or CD accompaniment will NOT be permitted under any circumstances. Candidates are encouraged to rehearse with and bring their own accompanist to the audition. If this is not possible, an accompanist will be provided for vocal auditions. Please be aware that due to time constraints, rehearsal time will not be available with this accompanist. There will be enough time to discuss tempo and musical markings only.
If the candidate plans to use the accompanist provided by TCNJ, the candidate must make this request and must provide the following information to the Department of Music no later than five business days before the audition:
Titles and composer names for musical selections (not the music itself unless specifically requested to do so)
Title of collection or edition
Publisher name of music to be sung
Key of piece (please use letter key, not voice part or “medium-high”)
The candidate may email this information to musicdept@tcnj.edu
*Art Songs
The following list should be used only as a guide for selecting an appropriate art song A simple art song that is well sung and convincingly presented is preferable to a more difficult aria that may be beyond the capabilities of a young singer. On the other hand, if a candidate has been studying advanced literature for at least a year, an aria might be appropriate.
- Early Italian songs such as those found in G. Schirmer’s “Twenty-Four Italian Songs and Arias” or in Alfred’s ” Twenty-Six Italian Songs and Arias”
- German lieder by Mozart, Schubert, Schumann, or Brahms
- French bergerettes or songs by Fauré
- Songs found in collections such as the “First Solo Songs” and ” Second Solo Songs” edited by Joan Frey Boytim, published by G. Schirmer/Hal Leonard
If you have any questions about these requirements, need assistance selecting appropriate repertoire, or would like to explore modified/alternate requirements, please contact Brandi Diggs, diggsb@tcnj.edu.