<p>The question may be academic at this point, with auditions virtually completed for this cycle, but...what does a student's facility with theory tell candidate reviewers about the candidate that may have a bearing, if even slight, on their consideration? It seems to me that, while certainly not required to be able to sing and act (for examply, I play violin at a fairly high level of non-professional proficiency but am practically clueless on the theory front), it may signal a maturity about the individual's musical understanding. I know the various music theory tests the kids take are positioned as being largely for class placement, but what I'm trying to understand is whether or not they may factor in a bit more than that. Experiential comments from coaches or experienced students or parents would be welcomed.</p>
<p>I’m not sur eI fully understand the question… are you auditioning for a music theatre degree or a music degree on the violin??</p>
<p>Most MT programs do require some music classes – theory, piano, sightreading, etc. I believe that the theory tests really are for placement, and would not be an issue in acceptances. If an audition is strong, that student would probably still be considered for most programs regardless of their prowess in the theory test.</p>
<p>This is for Katip1616. Thanks for your question. To clarify, I’m a dad, and I used the violin example just to point out how, indeed, music theory knowldege and a person’s musicality don’t always go hand in hand.</p>
<p>Okay I see what your saying. And I agree with you, yet I also disagree. By having a certain proficiency on the violin, you do know basic, basic theory - your notes! For a music theatre program, I doubt having a lack of sufficient knowledge in theory would deter an auditon panel from admitting a candidate, but would just give faculty an idea of where the student is academically in regards to theory knowledge. For a Bachelor of Music or BA with a major in music, theory understanding would have to be a bit more advanced.</p>