Entrance Evaluations

Admission to Music at Brock is a two-stage process:

  1. Application to Brock through OUAC
  2. Music Entrance Evaluation

2024 Entrance Evaluation and Procedures

Applying to the Music Program

Applicants must first apply to Brock University through the Office of the Registrar.

Learn about the application process at brocku.ca/admissions/apply.

Which program should I apply for?

  • Bachelor of Music (BMus) if you love performing and/or teaching and are looking for an intensive study of music in preparation for a professional career in music
  • Bachelor of Arts, Music (B.A. Music) if you want to study music with more flexibility in your studies and career pathways

There is an additional fee for lessons in the BA program.

2. Once you have a conditional offer of acceptance from Brock, you will receive an email explaining the next step.

  1. Have you received a conditional offer of acceptance from Brock? If not, please review the “Programs” section above.
  2. If yes, complete the Department of Music Entrance Evaluation Form.
    • Tip: check the section below on the Theory Placement Evaluation before starting the form

The Entrance Evaluation Day consists of the following:

  • General Information Session (10:00-10:30am)
    • Information on the Music programs, the Marilyn I. Walker School, Brock University and the surrounding community
    • Family and friends are welcome
  • Building Tour
    • In-person entrance evaluations will include a building tour
    • For online entrance evaluations, we suggest arranging a tour of the arts campus.
  • Individual Appointments
    • 10-minute interview – all applicants
    • 10-minute playing audition – for BMus, or anyone wishing to take private lessons in the BA
  • Theory Placement Evaluation
    • In-person and online options are available

Interview

This is your chance to ask us questions, and our chance to get to you know you. Our conversation will help us to determine the best path for you through our degree options. This interview is for the applicant and the selection committee only.

Audition – not mandatory!

An audition is only required for BMus applicants, or for those wishing to take private lessons as an elective in the BA program.

If you do plan to do a playing audition please see the Audition Information section below.

A Theory Placement evaluation is a required part of the application process.

Have you taken any theory exams in the past 12 months?

The following completed theory examinations or higher level will be accepted in place of the Theory Placement test:

  • Conservatory Canada Grade 2 Theory
  • Royal Conservatory of Music Level 7 Theory
  • Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music Grade 5 Theory
  • Trinity College Grade 5 Theory
  • Western Board of Music Grade 4 Rudiments

Certificates may be uploaded into the Department of Music Entrance Evaluation Form.

Alternatively, you can complete the Department of Music Theory Placement Test instead.

Contact music@brocku.ca for more information.

If you want to take lessons, you must do an audition.

Repertoire requirements

  • two contrasting pieces
  • preferably solo repertoire (not a part from a piece for band, orchestra or choir)
  • classical music (not jazz or pop)
  • BMus: minimum RCM lvl 9 or equivalent. *Memorization required for piano, guitar, voice
  • BA or elective lesson courses: minimum RCM lvl 5 or equivalent. *Memorization is not required

Accompaniment

  • Piano accompaniment is required for auditions in voice, strings, and band instruments
  • A live pianist is available for in-person auditions upon request – please contact the Music Office
  • For virtual auditions, a recorded backup piano track is acceptable

Scores

  • Please provide one copy of your music for the adjudicators
  • If using our department accompanist, also provide a copy of the piano part for their use

Application Checklist

Audition Checklist

  • Choose two contrasting pieces according to the guidelines above
  • Scan your scores
  • Practice!
  • Video record your performance, if pre-recording
  • Submit scores and video (if pre-recording) to music@brocku.ca

One Week Before your Entrance Evaluation day

  • Confirm that you have received your Zoom link (if applicable) and schedule
  • Review and submit any missing materials that have been requested
  • If you have any questions please contact the Music Office: music@brocku.ca

NOTICE TO APPLICANTS: Please give the URL for this Letter of Recommendation form to your Music teacher or a person qualified to discuss your musical background. The completed form must be submitted by your referee at least one week before your scheduled Entrance Evaluation date.

NOTICE TO REFEREES: Please ensure this form is submitted one week before the applicant’s scheduled Entrance Evaluation date. If you are unable to use this electronic form please contact music@brocku.ca for alternatives.

Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards

Students interested in applying for scholarships, bursaries, and awards are encouraged to have a look at Brock University’s Student Awards and Financial Aid website. Click the button below to see Brock’s list of awards for future Music students:

  • A. Whitmore Griffin Award in Music
  • Amadeus book prize
  • Atamanuk Family Bursary in Music
  • Bradley Music Education Trust Award
  • Byron Balaski Memorial Award
  • Doris White Memorial Bursary
  • Evelyn Fenwick Scholarship in Music
  • General Brock Entrance Award in Music
  • Graduating Student Prize
  • Music World Award
  • Ronald Tremain Prize in Musical Composition
  • Ruth and Horace Beard Award in Music
  • Senior Scholarship in Music

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