Audition criteria
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Youth Artists
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Youth percussionists of all ability levels are encouraged to apply.
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Suggested repertoire can be found here.
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Beginner percussionists in need of repertoire to perform for their NDCP audition may play one or all of the solos linked below.
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Snare drum: Video and Sheet Music
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Timpani: Video and Sheet Music
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Mallets: Video and Sheet Music
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Audition videos should not exceed 10 minutes in length.
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Emerging Artists
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Solos, etudes, and orchestral excerpts that are currently a part of your curriculum will be appropriate for the NDCP audition.
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Perform a wide variety of repertoire on many percussion instruments to showcase your skills.
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Repertoire should be at a pre-professional to professional skill level.
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Audition videos should not exceed 20 minutes in length.
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Video audition guidelines and tips
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Guidelines
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Applicants are allowed to record on any device with audio and video capabilities.
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Each solo/excerpt must be shot in one complete take.
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Announce your full name at the beginning of your video.
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Announce the title, movement and/or measures/rehearsal markings (if applicable), and composer of each solo/excerpt before your performance.
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Continuous audition videos are not required. Breaks between each solo/excerpt are allowed.
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Audio/video edits or enhancements are not permitted.
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Applicants do not need to scan or submit their chosen repertoire.
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Tips
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Watch this video for audition tips!
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Dress appropriately.
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Record in a room with good lighting (not too much backlight).
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Angle your video and position your music stand(s) so your technique (hands and sticks/mallets) can be seen.
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Conduct test runs before creating and submitting your audition video.
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Make sure the entire instrument fits into the video.
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Speak loudly and clearly, and look directly into the video camera when introducing yourself and your repertoire.
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Seek feedback from trusted educators and mentors prior to submission.
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Applications
Applications for our Youth and Emerging Artist programs 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.
