Graduate Percussion Auditions

The purpose of the graduate audition is to demonstrate your musical interests and abilities. Be sure to choose repertoire that is meaningful to you, distinguishes you as a musician, and represents your personal musical style. Graduate study in percussion at The University of Iowa is designed to help you find and/or develop your unique musical voice, to become a curious musical scholar, and to find your place in the modern musical landscape.

Auditioning for the Graduate Program in Percussion at The University requires a pre-screening of candidates. Prospective graduate students should be in touch with Dr. Dan Moore prior to submitting links to pre-screening videos.

At a minimum, the pre-screen should include three (3) examples of mallet performances in contrasting styles (including both 2- and 4-mallet works), concert snare drum, and multi-percussion. Other desirable components include examples of chamber music, jazz, and world music performances as well as examples of conducting/coaching of ensembles, original compositions/arrangements, or examples of writing for marching percussion.

After passing the pre-screen, prospective graduate students are advised to come to campus for a live performance audition and interview. Prospective Teaching Assistants must interview in person. 

Live auditions should include performances from the pre-screen videos as well as at least one work not included in the pre-screening. Orchestral Excerpts are not required for pre-screening or on-campus auditions.

Questions?

For more information on the Percussion Program at The University of Iowa, please contact Dr. Dan Moore, (319) 335-1632 or daniel-moore@uiowa.edu.