Master of Music (Performance Teaching)

Audition requirements

Applicants should prepare an audition program consisting of 20 minutes of repertoire that is contrasting in style and genre. For example, applicants with a classical repertoire are encouraged to prepare a Western art music program consisting of works that reflect different composers, eras, and/or genres.

Instrumentalists and singers must perform at least part of the program with an accompanist, where appropriate*. You must provide your own accompanist. Classical piano, classical guitar or percussion would normally audition unaccompanied.

Recommended accompanists

Preparing your recorded audition

Please prepare your recorded audition as per the guidelines outlined above.

We understand that in current circumstances, arranging a live accompanist and/or accessing certain recording equipment may be difficult. For applicants requiring accompaniment, you may organise an accompanist to provide backing tracks for your repertoire. Once you have received your backing tracks from an accompanist, you can use them to rehearse and then record your audition.

It is not an expectation that you access or purchase additional recording equipment beyond a basic smartphone, iPad or laptop/desktop device. For smartphones, many recent models already have very good microphones built in.

Please note, your full audition must be video recorded in a single unedited take, and uploaded as one file. Pauses between pieces or movements is expected.

Interview  requirements

Applicants who satisfy the minimum requirements for entry consideration (but who do not meet the requirements for guaranteed entry) will be required to attend a short online interview in addition to the audition.

Applicants should prepare to discuss the following during the interview:

• Reflect on your previous music learning experiences
• Articulate your knowledge of melody, harmony, rhythm, dynamics, and tempo in terms of techniques specific to your instrument
• Reflect on why you want to be a music teacher

The University of Melbourne and the Faculty of Fine Arts and Music are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all participants, regardless of their physical, sensory, cognitive, or psychological abilities. You will be asked if you have any accessibility requirements for the interview during the interview booking stage.

How will I be assessed?

Applicants’ audition will be assessed against the following criteria:

• Musical Awareness (appropriateness, shape, phrasing, sensitivity)
• Technical Command (accuracy, fluency, rhythm, tempo )
• Quality of Sound (tonal control, expressive range)
• Communication (poise, performance presence, interpretation)
• Control of Instrument (balance, posture, physical coordination)

Applicants' Interview will be evaluated according to the following criteria

• ability to reflect and speak clearly on your previous learning experiences
• ability to articulate musical and technical knowledge relating to your instrument.
• ability to communicate with confidence and clarity

All applicants will be ranked based on the above criteria, up to the capacity of places within the course