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Home > Music > Principal study > Composition > Auditions

Composition Auditions

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 should be provided in PDF format (Sibelius/Finale files are not accepted). Where possible, recordings of the scores submitted should also be included as online links on the score or as a separate document (any freely accessible online service is acceptable). In no circumstances will a recording of a purely 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

Interviews are scheduled to take place in December 2020.

All interviews for 2021 entry will  take place online (e.g. via Zoom).

BMus applicants only:

  • Written test (about 1 hour)
  • Aural Test (5 minutes, conducted during online interview)

The written 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. A short aural test will also be conducted during your interview. 

We will 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 comprised of 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. 

If you apply for this pathway you will also need to submit personal statement (500-1000 words), which 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. All interviews for 2021 entry will be conducted online (e.g. via Zoom). 

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