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Information for upcoming Auditions for Theater or Music – 2026-2027 School year
Acceptance into the Shepherd University School of the Arts and Media Music or Theater is a dual application process. Students planning to major in any of Shepherd University’s Music Degree Programs—the Bachelor of Arts with concentration in performance, composition or general music, or the Bachelor of Arts in Music Education leading to teacher certification or Contemporary Theater Studies—must apply and be accepted into the university. You do not have to be admitted to Shepherd University before scheduling your audition; however, applications to the university must be submitted prior to the audition date.
Although the university has a rolling admission policy, the School of the Arts and Media audition dates are fixed and you cannot enroll as an official music or theater major without an audition and acceptance into the School of the Arts and Media. Admission has become increasingly competitive and early application is advised. The application is available online here, or call the admissions office at 304-876-5212 or email admission@shepherd.edu for information.
Be prepared for your audition by reading the requirements below.
Auditions and Requirements for Music
Audition Requirements for Music may be downloaded here . These requirements serve as a guideline as you prepare for your music audition. Please make sure you review and satisfy the audition requirements for your specific instrument. Students are welcome and encouraged to contact our faculty for guidance or questions about their specific area of study and the audition requirements.
For the audition, the applicant should perform two works in contrasting styles. The repertoire should demonstrate the applicant’s technical ability and overall musicianship. Memorization is required for all piano and vocal students, and is optional for guitar. In addition, the student may be asked to play an etude as well as various scales and arpeggios on an instrument. Vocal majors are required to email audition music two weeks prior the selected audition date at music@shepherd.edu.
Auditions and Interview Requirements for Theater
All prospective students who wish to major in Contemporary Theater must complete an audition or interview process. We would love to get to know you and there are many ways we can do that. If you are most interested in acting, please prepare a 1-minute monologue from a contemporary play and then you will participate in a short interview with theater faculty. If you are most interested in theater design or technical theater, you will participate in a short interview with theater faculty. You may also bring a portfolio to share if you like.
Audition dates
For entrance Fall 2027:
Saturday, January 23
Saturday, February 6
Saturday, February 20
Click here to schedule your Audition for theater or music. Students who wish to audition for both should complete a link for both theater or music. Music students must audition to be considered for music scholarships.
Music Scholarships
Scholarships and other forms of assistance awarded by the School of the Arts and Media-Music are granted on the basis of talent as demonstrated by the student during the audition. Scholarships may be awarded to students who plan to major or minor in music, and non-majors who participate in an ensemble. All students seeking a music scholarship must complete the audition process. Need-based financial aid packages and academic scholarships should be sought through the Office of Financial Aid, phone 304-876-5470 or email faoweb@shepherd.edu.
Campus tours: To make an appointment for a campus tour for a different day, contact the Office of Admissions at Shepherd University at 304/876-5212 or 800/344-5231, extension 5212, or e-mail your visit request to admission@shepherd.edu.
Contact music@shepherd.edu for questions.