<p>I am applying on the drumset to the Pop Music major. </p>
<p>I dont quite understand the following paragraph as it's broad. I don't want to send in my prescreen video audition having recorded the wrong thing.</p>
<p>"The audition recording should contain three to five selections of contrasting styles from genres such as contemporary pop/rock, folk rock, R&B/Urban, or Latin/Salsa/Samba and repertoire from the Great American Songbook tradition. Selections may be original songs or chosen from existing popular music repertoire."</p>
<p>Does this mean i can play 5 different songs from one genre? Or does it mean i have to cover all the different genres?</p>
<p>The other thing is, being a drumset player i need to find tracks without drums to play on for the audition and it's quite difficult to find ones from the Great American Songbook.</p>
<p>Can anyone offer advice or know of someone who's done this before?</p>
<p>Based on the wording you can play up to 5 different pieces from one genre, provided that they are of contrasting style. The 3-5 is a range.</p>
<p>That’s my understanding. But don’t take my word for it. In situations where institution specific info or instructions are unclear, it is always best to call/email the program and ask the question of an administrator knowledgeable with the audition or submission requirements. Don’t trust an answer you get from the clerk that might answer the phone.</p>
<p>Can’t help you with the rest of your inquiry.</p>
<p>playthedrums
You might also consider contacting Peter Erskine via his email address and set up a pre-screening at his studio in Santa Monica. I think he charges about $175.00 for this session/evaluation and certainly, if he thinks you’ve got the right talent and skills for USC, he’ll give you all the information needed to gain acceptance.
USC’s a really great, but expensive choice for drum set players. Good luck.</p>