BMT or After-Degree Audition Outline

The following standards are taken from the Canadian Association for Music Therapy (CAMT) Recommended Competencies for music therapy students. Students applying for entry into CMU's Bachelor of Music Therapy degree program (normally occurs after Year 2 unless entering the After-Degree program) will be evaluated for their competencies in their major instrument as well as in piano, guitar, and voice.

Audition Outline

Major Instrument

Play two pieces in contrasting style.
Voice students will require to either bring an accompanist or request for one a head of time.

Piano

Accompany self while singing in tune with adequate volume; choose two contrasting selections showcasing two different accompaniment styles.
Play chord progressions in a variety of keys.
Sight read a hymn/folk/pop song using the grand staff.
Play a provided melody in the right hand with suitable accompaniment.
Improvise melodies to given bass line or given progression.

Guitar

Accompany self while singing in tune with adequate volume; choose two contrasting selections showcasing two different accompaniment styles.
Play chord progressions in a variety of keys.
Transpose and accompany 2 familiar songs at sight (songs will include 4-6 chords). Each song provided will be played in the original key and transposed to a requested key.
One song to be read from lead-sheet format (melody line and chord names provided).
One song to be read from word-chord format (lyrics and chord names provided).
For the above sections, students must be prepared to sing as they play. Singing for this exercise will not be graded.
Improvise a vocal melody to given chord progression.

Voice

Quick study: Students will be provided with an audio file of a song, approximately 4 phrases in length and given 2 minutes to study it. Upon return, they will perform the song with non-pitched percussion accompaniment.

When preparing song selections for guitar and piano accompaniment, please include:

1 song that personally means something to you. Discussion of the importance of this song will take place during your interview.

Choose 3 of the following:

1 children's song
1 original song
1 song for older adults
1 jazz/musical theatre song
1 worship
1 ethnic/culture specific song
1 popular song

General Musical Guidelines

All prepared selections are expected to be performed with appropriate musical elements and demonstrate a highly proficient level of musicianship.

Please note auditions may be interactive with starting and stopping of song selections as well as providing feedback for on the spot modifications.

Interview

The verbal interview is a discussion of the student's motivation to enter the music therapy profession. It is desirable that the students possess a knowledge of and commitment to individuals with special needs (e.g., through previous volunteer experience). Students will be assessed for their suitability and readiness to enter the music therapy degree program (musicality, self-awareness/insight, emotional maturity and strong communication skills).

The duration of the audition/interview is an hour to an hour and a half.

Printed from: www.cmu.ca/programs/music-therapy/outline