Vocal Studies Auditions
Application deadlines
Wednesday 2 October 2024: Vocal Studies: BMus, MMus/MPerf and Advanced Certificate. All Joint Vocal/Opera applications on any programme.
Wednesday 28 February 2025: Vocal Studies: Artist Diploma programme only.
Those applying for an overseas audition, should refer to the Music Auditions Overseas webpage for information about application deadlines.
Vocal Studies Auditions
We encourage you to attend a live audition where possible. If you are unable to, you have the option to submit a recorded audition.
Vocal Pathways
You may apply for:
- Vocal Studies (undergraduate and postgraduate and advanced postgraduate)
- Opera Studies (advanced postgraduate)
If you would like to be considered by both the Vocal and Opera Departments, you can make a Joint Vocal/Opera application. Panellists will assess which course – either vocal or opera – would be most appropriate for successful candidates.
Find out more about the Vocal Studies and Opera Studies courses.
If you wish to apply only for Opera Studies, please go to the opera webpage for audition requirements.
Live Auditions – Vocal Studies
For most programmes, there will be two rounds of auditions, both of which will be on the same day. These may be recorded for internal panel review purposes.
Please note: we do not request pre-screening videos. If you elect to attend a live audition, you will not be required to submit a video recording.
You should prepare:
- Three contrasting pieces in a variety of languages and styles (which may include one piece of musical theatre or a folk song).
- A short poem or piece of prose.
Everything should be performed from memory.
Round 1
You may choose the first piece and the panel will choose the second.
Round 2
If you are given a second round audition, you will choose the first piece. The panel may then choose to hear a selection from your other pieces, or your spoken text, and you will be given a short interview.
You should prepare:
- Four pieces in a variety of languages and styles. This must include at least one operatic
- A short poem or piece of prose.
Everything should be performed from memory.
Round 1
You may choose the first piece and the panel will choose the second.
Round 2
If you are given a second round audition, you will choose the first piece. The panel may then choose to hear a selection from your other pieces, or your spoken text, and you will be given a short interview.
Audition requirements are the same as those for the MMus/MPerf.
Artist Diploma auditions will take place in April/May and will consist of a single audition.
You should prepare:
- Five pieces in a variety of languages and styles that reflect your artistic strengths and interests.
Everything should be performed from memory.
You may choose the first piece and the panel will then hear a selection from your other pieces. You will be given an interview and the opportunity to discuss your artistic aspirations and immediate objectives.
Additional Information
Applicants who are successful in their audition will be required to submit the following:
- your up-to-date artistic CV
- a recent recording (made within the last year).
These items will be reviewed by the Artist Diploma Panel for consideration before a firm offer is made. The Artist Diploma Panel is a multi-disciplinary panel that meets after auditions to review and recommend admissions to the programme.
Recorded Audition - Vocal Studies
Please note: we do not request pre-screening videos. If you elect to submit a recorded audition, you must provide recordings as detailed below, and you will not be invited to attend a live audition.
Please submit a video recording of the audition requirements detailed above.
Submission instructions will be sent to you after the application closing date.
We do not require professional recordings, but please record in a space where you are able to capture clear and true audio and visual footage. You should consider the most favourable proximity to the camera/microphone and ensure that the location has sufficient lighting. Please watch your recording back before submitting, to ensure there is good picture quality and that the sound is optimal and well-balanced.
The deadline for all uploaded audition videos is Friday 25 October 2024.
Successful candidates will be invited to an online interview at a later date.
Live Auditions – Joint Applications
For candidates applying for consideration by both the Opera and Vocal Studies departments.
Please note: we do not request pre-screening videos. If you elect to attend a live audition, you will not be required to submit a video recording.
The audition will comprise two rounds.
If successful in the first round, the panel will decide if you should proceed to the second round for:
- Vocal Studies; or
- Opera Studies; or
- Vocal Studies and Opera Studies
You should prepare:
- Four pieces in a variety of languages and styles. This must include three operatic arias, one of which should be in English, and one art song.
- A short poem or piece of prose.
Everything should be performed from memory.
Round 1
You will be asked to perform two of your prepared pieces. You may choose the first piece and the panel will choose the second.
Round 2 (Vocal Studies)
If you are given a second round Vocal audition, you will choose the first piece. The panel may then choose to hear a selection from your other pieces, or your spoken text, and you will be given a short interview.
Vocal Studies second round auditions will happen on the same day as your first round. Please allow sufficient time for a round two recall when arranging your travel.
Round 2 (Opera Studies)
If you are given a second round Opera audition, you will be asked to perform two contrasting arias, one of which must be different from those offered in the first-round audition. You will also be required to attend a 30-minute movement and drama workshop; please ensure you arrive wearing comfortable clothing for this session. You may change into audition clothing after the movement session and before your audition. Please note that we do not have designated changing facilities, but you may use the restrooms to change.
Opera Studies second round auditions, will take place on 10/11 December.
Recorded Auditions - Joint Opera/Vocal Applicants
For candidates applying for consideration by both the Opera and Vocal Studies departments.
Please note: we do not request pre-screening videos. If you elect to submit a recorded audition, you must provide recordings as detailed below, and you will not be invited to attend a live audition.
Please submit a video recording of the audition requirements detailed above.
Submission instructions will be sent to you after the application closing date.
We do not require professional recordings, but please record in a space where you are able to capture clear and true audio and visual footage. You should consider the most favourable proximity to the camera/microphone and ensure that the location has sufficient lighting. Please watch your recording back before submitting, to ensure there is good picture quality and that the sound is optimal and well-balanced.
The deadline for all uploaded audition videos is Friday 25 October 2024.
R2 for Vocal or Opera Studies (if applicable)
Vocal candidates may be invited to an online interview (via video conferencing) at a later date.
Opera candidates may be invited to an online workshop (via video conferencing). This will take place on 10/11 December.