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Below are some of the most common inquiries we receive surrounding the application and audition process. If your question is not answered, please feel free to reach out to the Audition Coordinator, listed in the ‘Contact Us’ box below.

Do I need to submit  separate applications for Montclair State University and the John J. Cali School of Music?

No, you only need to submit one application to the University. Once you select ‘music’ as your program of choice, the application will auto-add a questionnaire for the Cali School. 

Do I need to submit anything to the portfolio section of my application?

The portfolio section of your application is used by the Cali School to review videos submissions (if that is how you choose to audition) or by our Composition & Theory Faculty to review your required supplemental materials. If you are not auditioning via video submission, or applying to the Composition/Theory program, you do not need to submit anything to your portfolio for the Cali School. 

When is the deadline to submit my application/supplemental materials?

Your application, supplemental materials, and audition registration all need to be completed 2 weeks prior to your chosen audition date. 

What is the difference between the Music Education – Classical Focus, and the Music Education – Jazz Focus? 

The Cali School offers one complete degree in Music Education (School & Community Settings). However, students may choose between the Classical Focus – where your primary instrument & ensemble studies will be based around classical repertoire, or the Jazz Focus – where your primary instrument & ensemble studies will be based around jazz repertoire. 

While your application will reflect Music Education for either, the audition registration form, repertoire and audition process will differ for each focus. 

Do you offer music minors?

At this time we do not offer minors in music. 

How do I register for an audition?

Audition registration is completed online, once you submit your application. You will have access to the private audition registration link either via email, or through your application portal.

Are there pre-screenings?

At this time, there are no pre-screenings for any of the programs at the Cali School.

Can I audition for two programs at the same audition?

At this time, we are no longer accepting dual consideration at auditions. However, students are permitted to re-audition for another program, or on another instrument, after their initial audition. 

Do I need to take placements tests at the audition?

No, placement tests are not part of the audition results. Pending a successful audition and offer of admission, students will receive emails with the links to our placement tests for aural skills and theory classes only. Your results will not affect your admission, but are simply used to ensure you are placed into the correct course levels. 

I chose my audition date, but I haven’t received my time yet. When will I get that?

Audition & Interview times are scheduled by the audition coordinator and will be sent in a confirmation email about 1-2 weeks prior to your chosen audition date.

Do I need to bring my own instrument?

All Instrumentalists are expected to bring their own instrument, except for percussionists. If you do not own your primary instrument, or need access to one because of travel, please reach out to the Audition Coordinator to see if we can supply you with an instrument for your audition.

Do I need to bring an accompanist?

No, you do not need an accompanist. Instrumentalists should be prepared to perform on their primary instrument without an accompanist; vocalists will be provided with an accompanist from our faculty and are expected to bring copies of their music to the audition. 

Can I submit a video instead of a live audition?

Yes. While we prefer for all applicants to audition in person, we understand that some students may have religious, travel, or alternative conflicts on our offered audition dates. Video Auditions will be one of the options students can register for once they receive access to the private audition registration page. 

How do I submit an audition video?

Once you register for one of the audition video dates, you will receive a confirmation email that outlines the requirements and directions for recording and uploading your video submission.

Do I need to register for an audition if I am submitting a video?

Yes, all applicants must register for an audition regardless of audition medium, degree level, or choice. 

What if I can’t attend any of the scheduled audition dates but still wish to audition in person?

If you are not able to attend any of the scheduled audition dates, please reach out to the Audition Coordinator for alternative options. 

If I don’t pass my audition, what are my options?

Incoming students may audition up to three separate times for the Cali School. If you do not pass your initial audition, you are welcome to reach out to the audition coordinator and request to register for a future audition date. 

Students are also welcome to enroll in University College as a pre-major student, and re-audition after a semester of study.