Auditioning for music at UWA 

We’re committed to unlocking your creative potential, whatever your musical interest. Explore our wide range of courses and discover the one that’s right for you— our courses are designed for different interests, musical backgrounds, and experiences. Be sure to review our admission requirements to understand the prerequisites for each course.

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Roving music students playing instruments

Which music courses require an audition? 

If your course does not require an audition, you can simply enrol in the relevant degree and then select the major once you’ve accepted your offer from UWA.

Music Ensemble Units

No audition is required for 'Ensembles for All' (Ukulele, Broadway Choir, Drums and More) however, Advanced Ensembles require an audition (Orchestra, Wind Orchestra, Jazz Ensembles, etc). These auditions happen in week 0 or week 1 of each semester. Email [email protected] for more information about auditions.

Please note that applicants are not required to have completed ATAR Music to study a music major at UWA. 

Booking your audition

Find your relevant booking session from the link below.

    Book your audition

    Select your preferred date or request an ad-hoc booking.

      You will receive your audition details approximately 10 days before the scheduled date.

        Bachelor of Music, Music Studies, Music General Studies, Applied Music Minor 

        Come prepared with two contrasting pieces that best show your ability. Chose something that shows your skill, but that you can play well - this may not be your hardest piece.  

          Music Theatre

          Come prepared with two contrasting pieces and your monologue.

            Frequently asked questions

            What happens in the audition? (Classical Music)

            An audition is not an exam.  The panel will ask for copies of your music and for the titles of your two prepared pieces. You’ll choose which piece to start with. Due to time constraints, you may only play parts of each piece, so feel free to begin mid-piece if there’s a specific section you’d like to showcase. The panel may stop you mid-piece. Being asked to stop is not an indication of unsuitability for admittance.  
             
            The panel may listen to your second piece in part or in full. You’ll then complete a brief aural quiz to assess your musicality and have a chance to discuss your goals and experience.

            What happens in the audition? (Music Theatre)

            An audition is not an exam, the panel genuinely wants you to succeed, so approach the audition as if it were a performance

            The audition consists of four elements: singing, spoken text, aural test, and interview. You will sing first, followed by your spoken text. You may choose which song to sing first. Due to time constraints, you may not be required to perform both songs in full.  The panel may ask you to perform excerpts or repeat elements of your songs or spoken text, based on their feedback.

            Although dance is part of the Music Theatre Major, it is not required for entry and is not included in the audition process

            You’ll then complete a brief aural quiz to assess your musicality and have a chance to discuss your goals and experience.

            Dress to impress. Wear something that makes you feel incredible, while keeping in mind that your attire is also part of your first impression to the panel.

            Remember, questions are welcome!

            Do I need an accompanist?

            It’s up to you. Due to the nature of Voice auditions (Classical and Music Theatre), an accompanist is provided, or you can provide your own if you prefer. September auditions may align with ATAR exams, so some accompanists might be unavailable. For instrumentalists, performing without an accompanist is perfectly fine. 

            I play percussion, is my audition different?

            You should still prepare two contrasting pieces, ideally one on mallets and another (e.g. snare, timpani, or kit) that demonstrates some percussion rudiments. 

            What should I include in my portfolio?

            Please bring samples of your work, such as academic writing, compositions, music certificates, or other achievements. A panel member will review these during the audition. If you don’t have examples, a portfolio is not mandatory. 

            I was really nervous, can I audition again?

            It’s really normal to feel nervous! Our experienced panel understands this and can usually assess your musical ability accurately. If you feel nerves affected your audition significantly, reach out to the Conservatorium of Music to discuss possible options. 

            I'm interested in composition - do I need to audition?

            You’ll need to attend an informal interview and submit a composition portfolio (in advance of the audition).

            If you are unsure which stream you wish to pursue, or you wish to be considered for both performance and composition, we recommend you audition for performance and attend a composition interview. You can select this option when booking your audition. 

            I'm an international applicant - how do I audition?

            You will need to provide a recorded audition either via Dropbox, USB, Youtube, DVD or via any file sharing system, as long as you provide us with access to view it.  You should perform two contrasting pieces on your instrument or voice in a single take (do not edit the recording afterwards). You’ll also need to provide a certified letter stating the authenticity and date of the recording. Once you arrive at UWA, you may be asked to do a separate informal audition. If you are interested in composition, please also provide a portfolio. 

            Can I defer my place in music?

            If you plan to defer for over six months, you’ll need to re-audition to secure your place. It’s essential to maintain a high standard of performance until you start at the Conservatorium. 

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