<p>I'm a senior and have just submitted most of my scores and recordings. Next Saturday I have a live audition at NYU, as well as a theory test and an interview. I've practiced for weeks and hours and really worked hard, but was just wondering how important is an audition for composition major? I've played piano for 11 years and consider myself to be a strong pianist, but was just curious as to how much weight that has in the whole process.
Thanks!</p>
<p>I don’t think the audition is a make or break thing. Not like your portfolio and interview. Mostly they want to know if you’ll be able to participate in ensembles at an appropriate level. Are you hoping to study with Julia Wolfe?</p>
<p>I think portfolio is the most important. Their interview is apparently just a short conversation about the “history” of your composing. Theory tests are often just for placement purposes: is that true at NYU? I think the standards of playing for composers is lower than for those applying for the instrument (so I have heard).</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>Thanks for the quick response! I was hoping to study with Wolfe but wasn’t sure if she works with undergrads?</p>
<p>also Compmom have you heard anything else/more specific about the NYU auditions? Does anyone know if you interview with an actual composition faculty member, or with a random alumni? This will be my first audition and I want it to go well. Thanks for all the help</p>
<p>I would assume the interview would be with a composition faculty member, yes. You must be applying early decision. It’s hard to say but hope you don’t get too nervous and can enjoy the day. It helps to think that you are also investigating the school! You seem like a modest sort of person: that is refreshing in this competitive world :)</p>
<p>If it helps you, you should feel free to call admissions with questions about the audition, no matter how smalll. They don’t even need to know who is calling though it would be fine if they did. I seem to remember my daughter calling some of her schools. First time out there is no reason why you would know what to expect, and that can increase nerves.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>