The audition for PVA Vocal, students are required to have previously submitted all components of the PVA application process. Please see Apply Online for further information.
The audition will provide an opportunity for our music team to hear where the student is in their musical journey, get a sense of their ability to take direction (are they willing to take risks, open to feedback, etc.), and assess which ensemble would provide the student with the most opportunity for success.
More importantly, this is an opportunity for the student to share their gifts and passion with us in a friendly, safe, and encouraging environment.
Prepared Solos
Students will demonstrate their ability to prepare and perform a piece of music that showcases their gifts and passions.
Please prepare a piece of music (30 seconds to 1 minute, if your solo is longer choose a short section of it) that demonstrates your range and ability. It should be in the classical or musical theatre genre. A collaborative pianist will be provided, so please bring music for the collaborative pianist (on paper, not a phone). If you are unsure of what to sing, please see the suggested pieces below. We look forward to hearing you!
Suggested pieces (*collaborative pianist will have the music already):
All Voice Types (in your respective key)
- The Water Is Wide
- O Danny Boy
Sopranos
- *‘Till There Was You (Music Man)
- *Caro Mio Ben by Giordani (key of C major)
Altos
- *On My Own (Les Miserables)
- *O cessate di piagarmi by Scarlatti (key of E minor)
Tenors
- *Corner of the Sky (Pippin)
- *Sebben, crudele by Caldara (key of E minor)
Bass/Baritones
- *Gaston (Beauty and the Beast)
- *Alma del core by Caldara (key of E major)
Following that piece, if there is a genre of music that you are more comfortable with (pop, country, folk) or passionate about, we would love to hear it. A karaoke track will work for this, and please have it ready. If you have any questions regarding this, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Technique
Students will demonstrate their understanding of musical skills and concepts.
Scales: You will be asked to sing a variety of vocal exercises on a neutral vowel, led by the director.
Sight-reading: Read a simple 8 bar melody from sightreadingfactory.com You can use solfège or sing on “doo”.
Ear Training: pitch retention (a melody will be played for you to sing back as best you can).
Interview (parents/guardians included):
This is an opportunity for us to learn more about students and families. We will ask you questions about why your student is passionate about music, what their goals are, and why they want to be a part of the PVA program, as well as who they are as a person. We will provide information about student and parent involvement in PVA and some of the expectations associated with participation in the program. We will also answer any questions you might have.
If you have any questions about the audition requirements, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Ms. Hillestad.
Amanda Hillestad
Music Specialist
BMus McGill University | BEd University of Calgary