Qualifying exam

• What to prepare?

  Main subject

  Artistic-practical exam
  A written programme must be brought to the examination.

  Round 1 (duration 6-10 minutes):

  • a minimum of four pieces of different styles from the song/oratorio/concert repertoire; to be performed from memory
  • a German poetry, prose or drama text to be performed from memory (duration about 3 minutes)

  A complete written programme for the first and second rounds must be submitted to the Commission at the first round presentation. This will not be returned or sent back.

  For candidates admitted to the second round

  Round 2 (duration 10-15 minutes):

  • a complete medium to large oratorio or concert piece, not from memory (two identical piano scores of the work must be brought to the audition)
  • Eight songs, one of which must be from the 20th or 21st century; to be performed from memory.

          Primavista Reading of a short, simple German text

  Works from Round 1 may also be required in Round 2.

  A complete written programme for the first and second round must be handed over to the commission at the presentation for the first round. This will not be returned or sent back.

  For applicants who have been admitted to the second round:

  • Round 2 (examination duration 10-15 minutes):
    • a complete medium to large oratorio part or a concert piece; not performed from memory (two identical piano reductions of the work must be brought to the aptitude test)
    • eight Lieder, one of which must be from the 20th or 21st century; to be performed from memory
    • Primavista reading of a short, simple German text

  Works from round 1 may also be required in round 2.

  Assessment criteria

  • technical mastery and musical imagination
  • stylistic knowledge
  • creative ability
  • stage presence
  • artistic individuality and expressiveness