Cello

Prescreening:

• The exposition, or first 5 minutes, of a major cello concerto (memorized). If you choose Elgar, please submit a recording of the first page of the 1st movement and up to m. 217 of the 4th movement for prescreening.*
• Two contrasting movements of a J.S. Bach Suite (memorized).

Final Audition:

• The entire first movement of a major cello concerto (memorized). If performing Elgar, please prepare movements 1 & 2 or movements 1 & 4.*
• Two contrasting movements of a J.S. Bach Suite (memorized). You may use your original prescreening repertoire selections for this requirement.
• One of the following:
  • A showpiece such as Tchaikovsky Pezzo Capriccioso, Popper Elfentanz, or Davidoff At the Fountain
  • An Italian sonata by Boccherini, Valentini or Locatelli. One slow and one fast movement should be presented. No duo sonatas (Beethoven, Brahms, etc.) may be substituted in this category.
  • A Popper Etude or Piatti Caprice
• One piece of your choosing which is personally meaningful to you. Applicants are encouraged to explore works by underrepresented composers.

*updated October 9, 2024.

Recorded Auditions:

Please record a ~15-minute audition in one continuous and unedited take, comprised of the requirements listed below. Other than Bach, please stop at an appropriate place in the music to fit your audition within the expected time frame. Please make every possible effort to record non-solo works with piano accompaniment. Your tape must include:

• One complete movement of a J.S. Bach Suite (memorized, no repeats).
• The exposition of the first movement of a major cello concerto or your choice (memorized).
  • If performing Elgar, please include material from both the first and second movement. 
  • If performing the Rococo Variations, please include the Theme, and Variations 1, 2, 3, and 7.
• One of the following. Applicants are encouraged to explore works by underrepresented composers:
  • The exposition of the first movement of a major sonata, or
  • A short showpiece, or
  • A Piatti Caprice of your choice.