Undergraduate voice audition requirements

For your audition, please prepare two contrasting pieces of music. Usually this means one is in a moderate or slow tempo, which shows your ability to sustain good vocal tone, and one is in a livelier mood, which demonstrates articulation and vocal flexibility.

Songs can be in English or foreign language texts and should be in classical style. All audition selections must be performed from memory, without sheet music. We will provide a pianist for the audition. 

You should get advice on appropriate selections and, if possible, vocal training from a competent and knowledgeable voice teacher in preparation for the audition. 

The audition panel will also conduct a short interview and assess your musicianship with sight-singing and tonal recall exercises.  

Emily Albrink: 502-852-5492, Email
Katherine Donner: 502-852-5493, Email
Chad Sloan (area chair): 502-852-5249, Email

Graduate voice audition requirements

All audition selections must be performed from memory without sheet music. We will provide a pianist for your audition. 

Applicants should present:

  • 3 art songs (one German Lied, one French mélodie, one American or English art song)
  • One aria from an opera or oratorio

Note: One of the 4 selections presented must be from the 20th century or later. 

Applicants can use pieces presented on a recital that was recorded within the last year. The pieces should be extracted from the complete recital to only present the pieces requested for the audition. 

Applicants must also email the School of Music admissions office or upload to the graduate application a repertoire list. If possible, also email or upload any recital programs presented as an undergraduate.

Emily Albrink: 502-852-5492, Email
Katherine Donner: 502-852-5493, Email
Chad Sloan (area chair): 502-852-5249, Email

How to register for an audition

To register for an audition, please email the School of Music Admissions office at gomusic@louisville.edu. Please include your name, degree program, instrument and preferred audition date. 

In order to be considered for music scholarships and assistantships, performance/pedagogy applicants must complete the application by February 15. For Music Composition and Theory, the portfolio must be submitted by January 15. For Music History, the application and writing sample must also be submitted by January 15.