Eligibility
To be eligible for a scholarship, students must be admitted to Willamette University, demonstrate a passion and talent for music through their audition, be committed to joining at least one of Willamette’s outstanding music ensembles, take a music scholarship class during their first year at Willamette, and take private lessons through the music department. The scholarship is renewable based on annual evaluations by the faculty.
To Apply:
- Apply for admission to Willamette University
- Submit the Music Scholarship application, including:
- Reference Contact Information:
- Provide contact information (first and last name, title, email address) for an ensemble director, if applicable
- Provide contact information (first and last name, title, email address) for a private lesson instructor, if applicable
- Digital Audition:
- Provide a YouTube link to your digital audition. Please note the requirements specific to your background and interest in music below.
- Reference Contact Information:
Audition Requirements
Classical Musicians: Instrumental and Vocal
- Prepare two or three pieces that have contrasting styles and tempos, and which demonstrate your ability to perform both rapid and lyrical passages.
- Select literature from the solo, not ensemble repertoire.
- Instrumentalists may include etudes and studies.
- Vocalists must sing at least one piece in a foreign language. You may also choose a piece from the musical theater genre or a jazz standard.
Jazz Musicians
- Prepare two or three pieces showing a variety of styles and tempos that you can both perform as written material and with improvisation.
- The recorded performance should have a rhythm section be it “live” or prerecorded.
Composers
- Composers must audition on an instrument (or voice) and submit a portfolio of compositions.
Digital Video Audition Details
- Video auditions should be uploaded as “unlisted” or “public” to YouTube.
- Digital video auditions should be 10-15 minutes in length.
- Files and online posts must be labeled with your name and include a written program with titles, composers, movements, and performers as appropriate.