Composition Auditions

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BMus/Guildhall Artist Masters requirements

With your online application

You will be required to upload three contrasting compositions in the Supporting Information section of the online application form.

  • Scores must be provided in PDF format (Sibelius/Finale files are not accepted)
  • The PDF score should also include a link to a recording or an audio export of a midi file (e.g. Sibelius) where a recording cannot be provided.  This can be uploaded to any freely available streaming platform (e.g. YouTube, Soundcloud)
  • In no circumstances will a recording of conventional/classical instrumental work be accepted without a score, but purely electronic pieces may be accompanied by a short textual commentary.

Please note that only candidates whose scores are of an appropriate standard will be invited to interview. 

Interview – Live in London

Interviews are scheduled to take place in December 2023, during which shortlisted applicants will meet with a specialist panel to discuss their portfolio and experience. Interviews take place at Guildhall School, London and candidates should bring printed copies of their scores for discussion.

Interview – Remote via Zoom (for overseas candidates)

If you live outside the UK and cannot attend in person, please select ‘Remote’ in the venue field of the application form, and we will offer you a Zoom interview.

Written Test – BMus candidates only

BMus applicants will also be required to complete a written paper. The test comprises techniques of composition exercises (harmony and counterpoint) of approximately Grade 7 theory standard. We will circulate this test one week prior to your interview. We will also supply a sample written paper if you are invited to interview.

MA in Opera-Making and Writing

Composition pathway 

If you apply to the composition pathway, you will be expected to submit a portfolio of three compositions (with recordings) in the same manner as for BMus/Guildhall Artist applicants described above. At least one submitted composition should be for voice and instrument(s) and the portfolio will be expected to evidence a good general level of creative engagement with opera and theatre. 

Writing pathway

Candidates for the writer pathway will be expected to upload a portfolio of writing comprising 15 poems or 5000 words of prose, or dramatic script (up to 30 pages). The portfolio will be expected to evidence a good general level of creative engagement with opera and theatre. The application process for writing candidates will be managed by Guildhall School’s Professor of Writing in conjunction with the Programme Director. 

Please ensure that your personal statement (500-1000 words) outlines your creative engagement with contemporary opera and the motivation that informs your application.

Please note that only candidates whose overall application is of an appropriate standard will be invited to interview. Interviews are expected to take place in April/May 2024.