Music Ensemble Auditions

At RIT, you’ll have the opportunity to study and perform in music ensembles that offer both academic credit and non credit options.

Whether you want to get involved in a music ensemble or just simply enjoy them as a spectator, RIT’s performing arts have something to offer everyone. Auditions for each ensemble are typically held at the beginning of each semester. See individual audition requirements below or contact performingarts@rit.edu with any questions.

Fall 2024
All new and returning members will need to complete this form
.
If you are a new member (or you have not played for Dr. Camarillo), please sign-up for an audition slot

Audition Information
The purpose of the audition is to determine if you will be successful in the context of the band program, and, which concert band you will fit into best.
Band placement considers your schedule, seniority, and the instrumentation needs of each ensemble, and is at the director’s discretion.
For more information please visit the
 Concert Band webpage.

When and Where
Auditions for the Fall 2024 semester will be
 held August 23st through August 25th in ten minute slots. Previous RIT Band members (who have played for Dr. Camarillo) do not need to reaudition.
All auditions will be held in SAU (Student Alumni Union) A130, in the basement level across from the Ingle Auditorium backstage doors, unless otherwise noted.

What do I prepare?
The audition is designed to be quick and straightforward.
Please prepare a 1-2 minute excerpt (solo, etude, etc…) that demonstrates your best playing abilities.
The audition will also include some simple sight-reading.
After the audition you will be notified whether you are admitted to the ensemble or given the option to enroll in lessons.
You will receive a permission code for FNRT 252 at this time.

If you need an instrument, please let Dr. Camarillo know before the audition and we can coordinate instrument usage.
RIT can provide the following instruments, albeit in limited quantities: oboe, bassoon, bass clarinet, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, trombone, euphonium, and tuba.

Questions regarding this audition process? Contact Dr. Luke Camarillo

 

Spring 2025 Audition Information
Auditions will take place January 13 and 14

Students should sign up for 5-10 minute time slots and adhere to the following guidelines.
*All auditionees will be asked to improvise over a simple 12 bar blues in the key of their
choice.

Sign-up for an audition slot >

Voice

  • Prepare a scale of your choice that demonstrates your vocal range
  • Prepare a jazz standard and a ballad (contrasting tempos)
  • Improvise over 12 bar blues progression

Trumpet

  • 2 octave chromatic C major scale
  • One other 2 octave scale or mode of your choice
  • Prepare a short etude or jazz standard of your choice
  • Sight reading example will be provided

Trombone

  • 2 octave F major scale
  • One other 2 octave scale or mode of your choice
  • Prepare a short etude or jazz standard of your choice
  • Sight reading example will be provided

Saxophone

  • 2 octave Bb major scale
  • One other 2 octave scale or mode of your choice
  • Prepare a short etude or jazz standard of your choice
  • Sight reading example will be provided

Piano/Guitar

  • Prepare a jazz standard, demonstrate the melody and comp chords throughout the piece.
  • Sight reading over a lead sheet (provided) including sight reading melody, and chord comping.
  • Demonstrate ii V7 I progression in as many keys as possible

Drumset

  • Demonstrate a swing feel a three different tempos (60bpm, 100bpm, 120bpm)
  • Demonstrate straight 8th note or Latin feel
  • Other various grooves and brush work if applicable
  • Sight reading a big band chart (provided)

Bass

  • Walk 12 bar blues in the key of your choice
  • F major scale 2 octaves
  • Sight reading includes walking over a jazz standard

Please contact Professor Kyle Vock at kdv@rit.edu with any questions.

Fall 2024 Audition Information

Why the audition process? Music is something that goes along all the way through our lives. In our ensemble, we will not only perform music and create artworks together, but also be part of the music-loving community to share our life stories. It is vital, for you and me, to know more about you and the level of your ability to help you best shine your musical talents and your other goals at RIT! Can’t wait to hear your playing in person!

The Audition Process
Please note that returning members still need to meet with Dr. Ma for seating assignment purposes.

1.) Please fill out the Online Survey by Wednesday, August 21, 11:59pm
Strings and Harp
Woodwinds, Brass, Percussions, and Piano

2.) Sign-up for an audition time (First come, First serve - don’t change existing fill outs)
Strings and Harp
Winds, Percussions and Piano

3.) Prepare for the audition.

Winds, Percussions and Piano auditions will consist of;

  • All major scales 7 sharps through 7 flats and the C Major scale. Or a solo passage of your choice. 
  • Short sight-reading excerpts
  • Prepared orchestral excerpts as listed for each instrument.
    • You don’t need to be perfect, but I would love to know how your comfort level with these excerpts
    • You only need to play the sections between the brackets.
    • If no brackets can be found, you need to be able to play the entire excerpt.

Percussion excerpts
Wind excerpts

Strings, Harp auditions will consist of;

  • A solo passage of your choice
  • Short sight-reading excerpts
  • Prepared orchestral excerpts as listed for each instrument.
    • You don’t need to be perfect, but I would love to know how your comfort level with these excerpts
    • You only need to play the sections between the brackets.
    • If no brackets can be found, you need to be able to play the entire excerpt.

String excerpts

4.) Prepare any questions you may have for Dr. Ma

If you want to meet earlier than Wednesday, August 21 or have conflict with available times, please contact Dr. Ma directly at ysmgsl@rit.edu

Individual auditions will take place on January 10. RIT Singers auditions are 10 minutes and the students don't need to prepare anything beforehand.  RIT Chamber Singers auditions are 15 minutes, and the students should be prepared to sing a piece of their choosing. Interested students are encouraged to email Thatcher Lyman at tdlspa@rit.edu to schedule a time to meet. Please email Mr. Lyman with any questions and for more information on singing with the RIT Singers in the Spring of 2025.

No preparation or audition required. Contact Director Kerfala Bangoura for more information about joining the ensemble.

Prior instruction not required, no audition necessary. Please contact the director, Mr. Ted Canning, for additional information about joining the ensemble.

Learn more about our ensembles and auditioning process