Music Course
Entry requirements
Entry is by competitive audition. Applications are accepted from 7 January for entry the following September and the closing date for applications is 1 March. The main audition period is from 8 February to 25 April for entry in September 2020 but applications for entry at other times of the year will always be considered. All audition dates are made at the discretion of the Head of Junior Guildhall to allow the convening of specialist panels.
Auditions are scheduled on any day from Monday to Saturday. Panels will usually be chaired by either the Head of Junior Guildhall or the Head of Junior Music Courses along with the relevant specialist or head of department. While auditions are highly competitive, it is difficult to offer advice about the required standard beforehand. The panel will be looking for potential as well as achievement and dedication. As a rough guide, candidates will normally have attained a standard of about Grade 5 distinction at the age of 10 and Grade 8 distinction by the age of 16. It is not necessary to have taken any grade examination before the audition. Pre-audition sessions are available to provide prospective applicants with advice. Advice sessions are charged and can be booked by filling in the following form.
Candidates are assessed in five basic areas of performance, covering musical awareness, quality of sound, accuracy, communication, and control of instrument. Students are requested to bring a list to the audition of pieces to be performed and scales and arpeggios to be asked to play.
Audition requirements
- First study: two contrasting pieces
- Second study (optional): one piece
- Scales and arpeggios appropriate to standard
- Sightreading
- Questions may be asked and tests given to ascertain a student’s level of general musicianship
Exceptions
- Singers are not expected to sing scales and arpeggios but should bring to the audition a prepared short prose or poetry reading from memory.
- Percussionists, where possible, should present three pieces one on each of the following instruments: tuned percussion, timpani and snare drum. Orchestral repertoire is not considered suitable. The total performing time should not exceed ten minutes. Less-advanced or young players may offer only one or two of these instruments, but this should be agreed with the School in advance of the audition.
- Composers should send to the Junior Guildhall office copies of three of their recent compositions. They will then be invited to an interview. At this candidates should be ready to play a prepared piece on an instrument of their choice, do some sight-reading and simple improvisation tests. Questions will be asked and tests given to ascertain a student’s level of general musicianship.
Late applications
Late applications will generally be considered. However, there may be a delay in arranging an audition date. We do try to hear all applications but cannot guarantee a place even if the student is of our entry level. In such cases, students may be placed on a reserve list.
A limited number of places are available for the Kindergarten Course and String Training Programme taking place at Felsted School.
Audition results
Results are sent directly to the parent/ guardian as soon as possible after the audition period.
Pre-audition advice
Junior Guildhall offers pre-audition advice with specialist teachers for prospective students. This will normally be a one-to-one session but the student’s parent/carer may also attend. The teacher may offer advice on musical interpretation and technical set-up and indicate whether the students is suitable for a Junior Guildhall audition. Please note that any indication given is not a guarantee of passing an audition.
Pre-audition advice sessions are charged at the following rates:
30 minutes - £40
40 minutes - £53.33
60 minutes - £80
For more information, and to book a pre-audition advice session, please complete this form.
Consultation lessons
Consultation lessons with a member of the School’s teaching staff can be arranged for students who have been offered a place on the Music Course. There is a charge for this facility.
Accompanists
Junior Guildhall will provide an accompanist for auditions, if relevant for the first and/or second study instrument, unless the candidate would prefer to use their own accompanist.
