This page contains information about the Undergraduate Admissions Procedures, Audition information, Theory Test, Piano Placement Interview, Scholarships and Loans. You may apply for admission to the university and view other relevant information by visiting the YSU Admissions page. Current information about Open House activities and Scholarship auditions may be found on the Dana School of Music Home page.

It is expected that students will have developed a certain proficiency in one or more branches of applied music before entering the University. Proficiency levels are determined by placement tests, interviews and auditions. Students not qualifying for the standard course of study in a major branch of applied music may take preparatory work until sufficiently prepared.

Procedures

1. Return the following forms to the Dana School of Music Office: Music Teacher's Confidential Report (teach.pdf) and the Confidential High School Evaluation Form (eval.pdf). You may also receive these items via mail from the Music Office.

2. Apply for admission to the university. You may apply online by visiting the YSU Application page. From this same page, you can also download an application form to apply by mail.

3. Send an official high school transcript to the YSU Admissions Office.

4. Schedule an audition with the Dana Music Office. Contact the Music Office to arrange an audition time: 330-941-3636. (Please note that all forms should be returned prior to the audition and must be returned prior to acceptance or scholarships.)

Auditions

The audition should include a performance of material which illustrates your ability. An accompanist is desirable but not required. The results as decided by the faculty committee will be sent to applicants shortly after each audition date. Audition materials vary according to the performance area. The following has been prepared as a guide to candidates planning to audition.

Piano:
A work by Bach, preferably memorized, a movement from a classic sonata, preferably memorized, a work from the 19th or 20th century, preferably memorized, demonstrate ability in major, minor scales, arpeggios and playing by ear.

ORGAN (an audition on piano to include):
A work by Bach, a movement from a classic sonata, a 19th or 20th century work. An organ selection may be performed, but the piano audition is required including scales and arpeggios.

Voice:
All songs must be memorized and accompanied by piano (no prepared tapes or cd). Candidates are requested to provide their own accompanist if possible.

Vocal Performance and Vocal Music Education: Two classical songs (folk songs are acceptable as well); one in English text, and the other in Italian, German, Spanish or French.
Musical Theater: Two contrasting selections, one each from a ballad and an up-tempo piece, from the music theatre repertoire.

Woodwind, Brass, String:
Unless otherwise indicated, a solo with piano accompaniment if available, selected from the OMEA contest list or equivalent. Demonstrate ability in major scales.   Click here for trumpet audition information.

Percussion:
See audition requirments posted on the Percussion Page

Guitar:
Click here for classical and jazz guitar audition requirements.

Composition:
Present written examples of work in composition. Tapes of performances of original works may be submitted. Audition in a performance area. Candidates should consult suggested audition material in their performance medium.

Theory Test

This test is given at a designated time throughout the year and is a means of determining your placement for the theory classes. It is required of all entering freshmen.

The Dana Music Theory Placement Exam is designed to measure native and learned skills in pitch and rhythm discrimination -- as well as basic vocabulary necessary to the study of Music Theory. Students may enhance their performance on this test by studying the following:

1.) Basic reading of music in treble and bass clefs.
2.) Construction of scales including major, natural, harmonic and melodic minors.
3.) Construction of chords. (Major, minor, diminished, augmented)
4.) Construction and identification of intervals.
5.) Basic ear-training skills such as melodic dictation and recognition of chord qualities and intervals.

Suggested study literature: Introductory Musicianship by Theodore Lynn. Available at the YSU Bookstore.

Piano Placement Interview

All non-keyboard majors are interviewed and tested for placement into appropriate keyboard classes. Students preparing for a career in music will find that facility at the keyboard will greatly aid in the study of music. The study of private piano to develop a sense of confidence and comfort at the keyboard will serve as a strong reinforcing element in the pursuance of a music curriculum. Textbooks for the first year’s curriculum: Lancaster, E. L., and Renfrow, Kenon D. Alfred's Group Piano for Adults: Student Book 1, 2nd ed. California: Alfred Publishing Company, 2004. (Available at the YSU Bookstore, local music stores, and online vendors.)

Scholarships

A limited number of scholarships, based on ability and financial need, will be available and are granted on a competitive basis. Auditions for entrance into the Dana School of Music and for scholarship purposes are taken at the same time (one audition suffices for both). If you wish to apply for a scholarship, you must obtain financial aid forms from the Financial Aids Office.

Loans

The University participates in a variety of loan programs. Those needing financial aid should seek assistance from the Financial Aid Office.

Counseling

If at any time an interview with a faculty member concerning a degree program in music is desired, please write or phone for an appointment.