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Washington State University
College of Arts and Sciences School of Music

Studio Voice Auditions

Studio voice auditions are required for any student wishing to take individual voice lessons at WSU as a music major, minor or non-major.  They are held at the beginning of each semester; in the fall they coincide with the choral ensemble auditions.  For up-to-date information regarding the fall auditions, please see the information on the Vocal/Choral Ensemble Auditions Page.

For studio voice auditions, please contact Dr. Julie Anne Wieck at jwieck@wsu.edu or 509-335-4331.

Audition material should demonstrate the applicant’s musical and technical ability.  While an art song, aria or folk song are preferred, repertoire should reflect a singer’s present stage of development.  The voice faculty is much more interested in musicianship, quality, and evenness of tone production than in excessively difficult literature.  It is suggested that a singer consult their voice teacher or choral director for suggestions.

For the best impression, every attempt should be made to perform your songs memorized.  An accompanist will be provided so make sure to bring music for them or you may sing unaccompanied.  During the audition you will also be assessed through vocalization, tonal memory and sight reading exercises.

Any student who does not qualify for Studio Voice will be given the opportunity to join a voice class and may audition again for private lessons after a semester.

Although a live audition is required for private vocal instruction if the student is on campus, potential new students may request permission to submit a video recording when applying for admission and scholarship consideration for the next year.

Scholarships are available to students majoring in music or planning to pursue a minor.  Scholarship auditions are held prior to January 31. Please contact the School of Music or Dr. Julie Anne Wieck for further information.

Audition Procedure for Undergraduate Scholarship Consideration and Graduate Admission

The audition for admission to studio voice will include:

  • Undergraduate students: Two prepared songs (pianist will be provided by WSU)
  • Graduate students: Five prepared songs representing varied styles and languages (pianist will be provided by WSU)
  • A pitch memory test
  • A sight-singing test
  • A demonstration of basic keyboard skills
  • A short interview with the voice faculty
  • Plan 30 minutes for the audition