The Music Scholarships are awarded for ability in musical performance, judged on the basis of auditions to be held at the University, annually in April. The auditions are adjudicated by a panel normally consisting of the University’s Director of Music, a member of the Institute of Education responsible for teaching in music, and others nominated by the Director of Music.

Vocal awards are offered for all voices (soprano, alto (male or female), tenor, baritone, bass). In the audition candidates will be expected to sight read and may be given aural tests. Fluency in reading conventional notation is normally expected. They will also be required to sing two contrasting pieces totalling no more than 10 minutes. Repertoire does not have to be classical, but the contrast is important. Accompaniment will be provided if required. The audition will include a short discussion of the candidate’s musical background and aims.

Instrumental awards are offered for all instruments. Grade VII or VIII of the Associated Board, where this is appropriate, will be regarded as the normal minimum level of attainment by candidates. In the audition candidates will be required to perform two contrasting pieces of their own choice, totalling not more than ten minutes. Repertoire does not have to be classical, but the contrast is important. Accompaniment will be provided if required. They will also be examined in sight reading. Candidates offering piano or organ will also be expected to sight read from a choral score and to accompany voices or instruments if required. The audition will include a short discussion of the candidate’s musical background and aims.

Those students holding vocal awards will be required to sing in both the University Chamber Choir and the University Chorus, to take singing lessons, and generally to participate in the University’s choral activities.

Those students holding instrumental awards will be required to play in the University Symphony Orchestra and the University Chamber Orchestra, the University Brass Band or other University ensembles as appropriate. Also to participate in and initiate chamber music, to take instrumental lessons, and generally to participate in the University’s instrumental activities. Those holding the keyboard scholarship shall be required to accompany choral rehearsals and to deputies from time to time for the Chorus pianist. Keyboard scholars shall also be given opportunities from time to time to conduct and coach.

Application Deadline Friday 25 March 2011