Classical Piano admission requirements for BA and non-degree studies
Admission requirements are the same for in person and online applicants unless indicated otherwise.
Main subject:
- J.S. Bach: One prelude and fugue - from the Wohltemperiertes Klavier series
- One complete classical sonata
- One significant romantic piece
- One 20th century piece
- One virtuosic etude
Only for BA applicants (not applicable to non-degree applicants):
- One contemporary piano piece composed for the entrance examination – sheet music is made available one month before the entrance examination.
The contemporary piece for 2024 is available from HERE.
All pieces are to be played from memory.
For online applicants only: the full audition programme must be recorded in one take, exam-style, no cutting is allowed. The recording cannot be older than six months.
GENERAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS - ONLY FOR FULL-TIME BA STUDIES
A. SOLFEGE, MUSIC THEORY
General requirements: in-depth understanding of the theory of classical harmony (diatonic triads and seventh-chords, their inversions; double dominant; sharpened subdominants with diminished seventh [#IIo7, #IVo7] and their inversions), knowledge of simple and complex forms (incl. compound ternary form [Trio form]).
Written examination:
1.) Dictation of a four-part harmonic progression (max. 15 chords), notation of all parts; indication of the harmonic progression with figures above or below the bass line (figured bass) or with Roman and Arabic numerals. (Played 6 times.)
2.) Writing out, in close voicing, of two four-part harmonic progressions (max. 11 chords) from Roman and Arabic numberals.
3.) Writing down an 8-12-bar piece in baroque or Viennese classical style containing equally elaborated parts after dictation (Played 9-10 times).
4.) Dictation of a sequence including twelve to sixteen intervals, triads and seventh-chords and their inversions. The chords should also be named. (Played 3-4 times).
5.) Notation of the dictated rhythm by ear.
6.) Indication of the parts of simple and compound binary and ternary forms of a musical excerpt given on the spot. Indication of proper keys, modulations, cadences and functions are also needed.
Oral examination:
1.) Playing (on the keyboard) of harmonic progressions based on classical harmony after dictation.
2.) Sight-singing of two song excerpts from:
a) the 18th century,
b) the late 19th century or 20th century
with a maximum of 12 bars.
3.) Identification and singing of intervals, triads and chords of four notes, as well as their inversions from the given notes.
4.) Clapping or tapping of short rhythmic patterns by sight or by ear.
B. FOLK MUSIC
- Informal conversation about the folk music of the candidate's country.