Admissions process

Audition and music theory test

The entrance exam consists of two parts: a practical audition and a music theory test.

Audition  

Your audition will last about 45 minutes. During this time, you will perform and take part in a short motivation interview. What to expect:

• You will perform and sing the repertoire you have prepared – the panel will select several pieces from your programme.
• You will sing two contrasting songs in different styles and genres, preferably one classical and one popular. You may accompany yourself on guitar or piano.
• You will perform three instrumental pieces on your main instrument. These should show variety in style, character and expression.
• If singing is your main instrument, you will also perform on a chordal instrument.
• You will receive a short improvisation assignment to test your creativity and responsiveness.  

During the motivation interview, we will talk about your decision to choose this programme and the unique music therapy profession. Together, we will explore how you can successfully complete your studies. We will also discuss practical matters such as your workload capacity and any support you may need for a study impediment. We’ll be happy to discuss your options and support you on your journey.

Music theory test  

During the theory part of your entrance exam, we will assess your knowledge and skills in the following areas:

1.      Intervals

• Recognising all intervals up to the tenth, in different registers (high, middle, low), both harmonically (played together) and melodically (played one after the other);
• Singing and identifying intervals, ascending and descending.

2.      Scales and tone series  

• Recognising and singing scales and tone series, such as diatonic, church and chromatic scales;

• Singing a given scale or tone series upwards and downwards from a starting note.

   

3.      Triads and four-note chords

• Singing individual notes from a chord, especially the bass note and root;
• Recognising and singing triads (major, minor, augmented and diminished) in different inversions, and the dominant seventh chord in root position;
• Finding triads above or below a given note;

• Identifying and singing the root, third, fifth or seventh of a chord that has been played.

   

4.      Melody, metre and rhythm  

• Singing and notating a single-line melody;
• Sight-singing a melody;
• Reproducing (by singing or tapping) and notating a rhythm;
• Writing down the rhythm of a melodic fragment;
• Recognising different time signatures (such as 6/8 and 2/4);
• Performing a rhythm at sight in various time signatures.

Assessment – main instrument: singing

Expression and interpretation – show that you understand the meaning of the song or poem through your phrasing, tempo, dynamics and vocal colour.  

• You have proven experience in singing, such as through lessons, choir, band or solo performance;
• You have a healthy voice and demonstrate the ability to use it in different ways, such as your speaking and singing voice;

• You can sing in tune, both a cappella and with accompaniment.

   

Assessment – main instrument: instrumental

Expression and interpretation – show your emotional connection through phrasing, tempo, dynamics and tone colour.  

• You have proven experience making music, either solo or in groups; for example, through lessons, orchestra, band or ensemble work;
• You have solid technical skills and can play accurately and in tune;

• You can perform solos and play confidently with accompaniment.

   

Outcome and validity

After your audition, you will be informed immediately as to whether you are admissible based on your musical ability. If you pass the audition, the admissions committee will submit its recommendation for your admission to the Exam Committee of the Academy of Music. This committee will check whether the admissions process has been carried out correctly and will ultimately decide whether you will be admitted. You will be notified of the results in writing.

An offer of admission is only valid for the programme and ArtEZ location for which you have applied as well as only for the academic year directly following the entrance examination. If you would like to start your programme a year later, you can submit a written request to the Exam Committee to retain your results for a period of one year.

If you disagree with the admissions outcome or believe that incorrect procedures were followed during the admissions process, you may lodge an appeal with the Exam Committee.