Auditions
Special Music School Auditions
Each year, the Special Music School accepts a new kindergarten class of 15 pupils. Depending on class sizes, we may also offer places for students in grades 1–8. Prospective pupils are assessed by musical professionals in both group and individual auditions.
There are three possible rounds in the audition process. The first audition round is open to all applicants and the second to those who score above a certain level on the first. This second round consists of a lengthier individual assessment, after which the applicant will be accepted, not accepted, or placed on a "delayed decision" list. A third audition may be required for those on the "delayed decision" list, and this occurs toward the end of the assessment period.
While we recognize that there are many factors that may affect a child's performance on a given day, and that children who are not recommended for advancement to the next level may be genuinely talented, it is our policy not to re-test children at any level except in truly exceptional circumstances.
Please note that assessments will be postponed in the event of a snow day.
Auditions consist of age-appropriate individual and group tasks:
Grades K–2
No prior musical training is necessary for acceptance to K-2. Our evaluators base acceptance solely on musical giftedness. They look for engagement in music, accurate pitch, good rhythm and musical memory.
The first round of assessment features two different activities which take place on the same day. In small groups, children take a 25-minute music "class" in which they are asked to sing, clap and move to music. In addition, each child is given a short, one-on-one individual assessment.
Grades 3–8
The music program at the Special Music School is classically based, so admission is based on musical accomplishment at this grade level. At their audition, prospective students are asked to demonstrate a suitable standard on an instrument taught at the school (piano, violin, cello, flute, clarinet, horn). They are asked to play 3 or 4 pieces on their instrument, and to play scales and arpeggios. Applicants also receive a short ear-training test involving singing and a short sight-singing test.
Applicants at grade 4 and above take an additional written musical theory test, to ensure they can keep up with their returning peers.
Audition requirements vary according to the grade level so do feel free to contact us to discuss your child's audition.
Young Artist Program Auditions
Admission to the after-school Young Artist Program is highly competitive and requires both an interview and an audition after application. For those students who require tuition assistance, an additional application is required.
Re-admission to the YAP program follows an annual review of mid-year and end of year assessments.
2009–10 Application deadline: March 31, 2009
Find out more about the Young Artist Program.