Music auditions and entrance exams

Dates

Process

As part of the application process for the Music (501.A0) and Professional Music and Song Techniques (551.A0) programs (as well as double DCS programs), candidates must audition and pass an entrance exam. This process consists of:

• A 10-15 minute audition on your principal instrument or voice*
• A theory test
• An ear training test

*Classical instruments and classical voice are not eligible for the Professional Music and Song Techniques program.

Once they have submitted their SRAM application, candidates are contacted by email and phone to arrange their audition date.

Audition requirements

Candidates may audition on a maximum of two instruments (including voice). If both auditions are passed, one principal instrument must be selected.

During the audition itself, applicants are asked to sing back individual pitches and short patterns of notes played to them on the piano.

Please note that we do not accept beginners on any instrument. Studying with a qualified private teacher greatly improves your chances of being accepted.

Requirements by instrument:

• Bassoon (classical)
• Cello (classical)
• Clarinet (classical)
• Double Bass (classical)
• Double Bass (jazz)
• Drumset
• Electric Bass (jazz)
• Electric Guitar (jazz)
• Flute (classical)
• Flute (jazz)
• French Horn (classical)
• Guitar (classical)
• Harp (classical) – Vanier College does not own a Harp. A harp student or applicant would have to be willing to bring their harp to lessons and ensembles unless other arrangements could be made.
• Oboe (classical)
• Percussion (classical)
• Piano (classical)
• Piano (jazz)
• Saxophone (classical or jazz)
• Trombone or Euphonium (classical)
• Trombone (jazz)
• Trumpet (classical or jazz)
• Tuba (classical)
• Viola (classical)
• Viola (jazz)
• Violin (classical)
• Violin (jazz)
• Voice (classical and music theatre)
• Voice (jazz)
• Voice (pop)

Entrance exams

Theory test

This portion of your audition is intended to test your theoretical knowledge. The passing grade for the theory test is 70%. Students applying for Fall semester may take a remedial Theory and Ear Training course in the summer if they fail this test. Those applying for the Winter semester must pass the test on their first attempt to be admitted.

Ear training test

This portion of your audition is intended to test your technical abilities. The passing grade for the ear training test is 70%.

Students applying for a Fall semester may take a remedial Theory and Ear Training course in the summer if they fail this test. Those applying for the Winter semester must pass the test on their first attempt to be admitted.

Preparatory workshops

The Music department offers free instrumental and vocal workshops with our teachers to help prospective students prepare for their auditions. Workshops are typically held in November. For more information, sign up for our mailing list by completing this questionnaire.