Frequently Asked Questions
Post-Audition Questions
- Can I re-audition if I am not approved to major or minor in music?
- Will my score on the Theory Placement Exam affect my audition result?
- When can I take the Theory Placement Exam again?
- Can I double major in music performance and music education?
- What is a typical schedule like for a music student?
- Will I be required to take piano as a music major?
- Do I have to know how to play piano before being accepted as a music major?
- How do I prepare for the piano placement exam?
- How do I select my private teacher?
- Will I have a music advisor?
Can I re-audition if I am not approved to major or minor in music?
Yes. You may re-audition at any time during the following academic year. In the meantime, if you are accepted to BGSU, you may declare an undecided major (Pre-major Advising) or another major of your choice other than music.
Will my score on the Theory Placement Exam affect my audition result?
No, the Theory Placement Exam is used for placement purposes only.
When can I take the Theory Placement Exam again?
You can take the exam again when you are on campus during summer orientation and registration (O-Reg). Use the theory study materials in your audition packet to review. A list of self-programmed workbooks and helpful theory Web sites is available online.
Can I double major in music performance and music education?
“Sometimes majoring in music can be a challenge, especially with two majors, but it’s definitely possible and definitely worth it if music is your passion. For potential future music students, I highly recommend planning ahead. For instance, take piano, theory or sight-singing and dictation classes now, and start learning a secondary instrument.”—Caitlin Miekstyn, music education and french
Yes, but it will take you five to six years, or you may obtain a bachelor’s degree in music education and pursue a master’s program in music performance. Receiving both the bachelor’s and master’s degrees will take the same amount of time as will the bachelor’ degree with two undergraduate majors.
What is a typical schedule like for a music student?
“Make sure you have a set schedule of what you are going to do, includng planning some time for you to hang out, relax, go swimming/running, eat, etc. This will help you get and stay organized, without asking too much of yourself and causing a quick burnout.”—Edward Bialorucki, music education
Unlike most majors, music students begin working on courses required for the major in their first semester of enrollment. Depending on theory placement, students will enroll in several “Core Music Courses” including theory, aural skills and class piano. Additionally, students will register for applied (private) lessons, ensemble and recital attendance. Courses from the BG Perspective will also be taken each semester but most of your coursework will be music courses.
Will I be required to take piano as a music major?
Yes, taking piano is part of the curriculum. You will be placed in a group piano class according to your level. A piano placement exam takes place during summer orientation and registration.
Do I have to know how to play piano before being accepted as a music major?
No. However, since piano is part of the curriculum for a music major, learning even the basics of piano before starting college will help you. You will take a piano placement exam during summer orientation and registration, (O-Reg). The piano placement exam serves to assist the student and academic advisor on the appropriate level of group piano class in which the student should enroll.
How do I prepare for the piano placement exam?
No preparation is required for the exam; however, if you wish to place out of any level of group piano or to begin progress on keyboard skill abilities, the following is suggested. You may work independently or with a teacher on the following:
- Playing songs/pieces in which both hands are used.
- Learning/playing scales and chords
- Playing chords and melody
- Harmonizing a melody with diatonic chords.
How do I select my private teacher?
Where there are multiple teachers (voice, piano, trumpet and violin), you will be able to list your teacher preference when you are on campus for summer orientation and registration (O-Reg). This does not guarantee you will study with that teacher but every effort will be made to accommodate your request. Faculty information and bios are available online.
Will I have a music advisor?
Yes, a music advisor will meet with you at summer orientation and registration to select courses for the fall semester. In addition he/she will be available to guide you each semester through course selection.