What should I prepare for audition?
We ask you to prepare two contrasting pieces on your first study and one on any subsequent study – these need not be long perhaps 5 mins. We are not looking for flawless final versions; recordings taken on an iPhone or similar device are absolutely fine as it provides us with an indication of what your current repertoire is and a little bit about you.
If you have any examples of your own composition then please do also send us these, even if composition is not one of your studies.
What are the first steps towards an audition?
Get in touch, our Admissions Secretary Mary Walls is happy to arrange for a phone call or Zoom chat to introduce herself and tell you a bit more about school and the audition process. Email
The process can take up to 3 months from beginning to end so there plenty opportunities to ask questions along the way and meet staff and pupils.
What funding assistance is available?
You can find details of the fees and financial support at this link https://www.stmarysmusicschool.co.uk/admissions/study-music/fees-and-funding/
What if I only have one study?
We are happy to consider applications from pupils who have only one study. Once you are at school, and in consultation with the Director of Music and your parents, a second study will be identified. As you go through school it is common for pupils to pick a third study, again this is done in consultation with yourselves and the Director of Music and instrumental teachers.
I have studied Rock and Pop - can I still apply?
Applications from Pop and Rock students are likewise warmly welcomed. In reality, however, only candidates who demonstrate a firm knowledge of traditional music notation (and of music theory in general), and who have brought a second instrument up to a good standard - which may include singing or composition - are likely to have their applications progressed. Drummers are required to play a polyphonic instrument to a good standard.