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​​Audition criteria

  • Youth Artists

    • ​Youth percussionists of all ability levels are encouraged to apply.  

    • Suggested repertoire can be found here.

    • Beginner percussionists in need of repertoire to perform for their NDCP audition may play one or all of the solos linked below.  

    • Audition videos should not exceed 10 minutes in length.

  • Emerging Artists

    • Solos, etudes, and orchestral excerpts that are currently a part of your curriculum will be appropriate for the NDCP audition.

    • Perform a wide variety of repertoire on many percussion instruments to showcase your skills.

    • Repertoire should be at a pre-professional to professional skill level.

    • Audition videos should not exceed 20 minutes in length.

Video audition guidelines and tips

  • Guidelines

    • Applicants are allowed to record on any device with audio and video capabilities.

    • Each solo/excerpt must be shot in one complete take.

    • Announce your full name at the beginning of your video.

    • Announce the title, movement and/or measures/rehearsal markings (if applicable), and composer of each solo/excerpt before your performance.

    • Continuous audition videos are not required.  Breaks between each solo/excerpt are allowed.

    • Audio/video edits or enhancements are not permitted.

    • Applicants do not need to scan or submit their chosen repertoire.

  • Tips

    • Watch this video for audition tips!

    • Dress appropriately.

    • Record in a room with good lighting (not too much backlight).

    • Angle your video and position your music stand(s) so your technique (hands and sticks/mallets) can be seen.

    • Conduct test runs before creating and submitting your audition video.

    • Make sure the entire instrument fits into the video.

    • Speak loudly and clearly, and look directly into the video camera when introducing yourself and your repertoire.

    • Seek feedback from trusted educators and mentors prior to submission.

Applications
Applications for our Youth and Emerging Artist progra
ms are now open!!!
The Youth Artist (grades 6 - 12) application is HERE.
The Emerging Artist (ages 18 - 25) application is HERE.
The application submission deadline is Friday, March 21, 2025 at 11:59 PM EDT.
Letters of recommendation are due by Friday, April 4, 2025.
Admissions decisions will be emailed by Friday, April 18, 2025.
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If you need assistance or have any questions,
please visit our FAQ page or contact us at percussiondiversity@gmail.com.

Please note that only percussionists who are based in the U.S. for the 2025-2026 school year
are eligible to apply for the Youth and Emerging Artist programs. 
 

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Apply
 

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