Percussion Studio - Auditions

Each year, the Music area offers nearly $150,000 in scholarships and general awards. Students do not need to apply for a particular scholarship since the application process applies to all awards. Auditions for acceptance into the School of Music and Percussion Studio and for scholarship awards occur each February. Please visit the Department of Music and Theatre website for important dates and deadlines.

The deadline for consideration of music scholarships is in February. However, prospective students are encouraged to complete their application to the University by December 15 for full consideration of all scholarships outside the music program.  Details information about auditions can be found at this page:  https://www.music.iastate.edu/music-major-application  

Listed below are examples of musical selections to prepare. These are suggestions only—performers may choose other similar repertoire if they wish.


Snare Drum
A solo or etude in concert style such as from:

• Anthony J. Cirone: Portraits in Rhythm

• Mitchell Peters: Intermediate Snare Drum Studies

 

Keyboard
A mallet keyboard solo (four-mallet or two-mallet; either is acceptable) or etude from a method book such as:

• Thomas McMillan: Masterpieces for Marimba

• Julie Davila: Impressions on Wood

 

Timpani
One solo or etude demonstrating musicianship from a method book such as:

• Saul Goodman: Modern Method for Tympany

• Raynor Carroll: Exercises, Etudes, and Solo for the Timpani

• Vic Firth: The Solo Timpanist

 

Optional Areas
You may include the following areas, if you wish:

• Drumset:  Demonstrate 2-4 styles (such as swing, funk, etc.)

• Rudimental: solo or etude in rudimental style

Due to the nature of instrument access and other potential factors, we understand how an applicant may require some flexibility with these requirements. Auditions on fewer  than all three instrument areas (snare/mallets/timp) are satisfactory in these circumstances. For more information, please contact Dr. Jonathan Sharp at jsharp@iastate.edu