Entrance Test for Performance – Classical Music, Early Music

When you apply to this programme, you need to take an entrance examination test. Here is everything you need to know to complete the test.

Application code: KMH-60000

Preparation

Make a repertoire list with the names of your prepared pieces for the entrance examination (including possible Test 2). Include your personal details and the programme, profile, and instrument for which you are applying. Your repertoire list should be in PDF format.

The audition process differs slightly depending on whether you are applying for instrument or voice. Below is a separate description for each.

Vocal performance

In advance of the tests, prepare and rehears 10 pieces from medieval up to works from the classical period. Choose pieces of contrasting character that cover a good range of genres and languages.

Instrumental performance

In advance of the tests, prepare and rehears at least four works. Your pieces should be selected from the major repertoire for your main instrument and should represent a good range of that repertoire.

Special instructions for applicants on

Recorder:
You may play on any size or style of recorder. Your repertoire list should cover multiple instrument types and should include music from the twentieth century.

Lute:
You should perform on at least one of the following historical plucked string instruments: Renaissance lute, Baroque lute, Baroque guitar, or theorbo.

Harpsichord:
Your repertoire list should cover both solo and basso continuo repertoire.

Test 1 – Digital audition

The first audition is digital. This test is a selection that determines which applicants will get to take the remaining tests.

Choose one or two of the pieces you prepared and record a video of yourself playing or singing what you have chosen. If you want, you can perform together with accompaniment.

After the application deadline has passed, applicants who have submitted their application at universityadmissions.se External link. will receive instructions via email on how to upload their test to KMH. You are therefore encouraged to prepare Test 1 in advance, before receiving the email.

Instructions for the video recording

For your video to be admissible, you need to

• Provide proof of your identity by showing a photo ID card together with your face in the video. State the name of the piece you will perform and the test code.
• Perform your piece. Your face and your hands must be visible throughout the entire video. It should be easy to see both you and your instrument.
• Record your video in one single uninterrupted take. No clips or other edits are allowed.
• It is fine to make your video with a mobile phone, but make sure your setup allows you to record without too much room acoustic, distortion, or noise. All recordings should have good image quality with sharp focus and good light.
• Allowed formats are MP4 or MOV. Try to keep the file size around 500 MB if possible. Click here for a guide External link, opens in new window. on how to compress your video and reduce the file size.
  

If you do not follow these instructions, and we find that your video shows signs of modification, your audition may be disqualified from consideration.

Test code: LS 11.0b Uttagning tidig musik
Test time: approx. 10 minutes
Assessment: The test is qualifying, and the result is evaluated on a pass (1) or fail (0) basis. The jury assesses your technical skill and musical performance.

Your result will be notified by email. Passing applicants will proceed to the remaining tests.

Test 2 – Audition main instrument at KMH

This test will take place on the KMH campus and consists of three parts.

Bring your printed repertoire list in 4 copies. If you want accompaniment, it will be possible to play with harpsichord, organ or piano. Please note that you would need to send sheet music in advance to KMH.

The audition process differs slightly depending on whether you are applying for instrument or voice. Below is a separate description for each.

Vocal performance

1. Entrance Audition
   Select one song from your repertoire list to perform. (It should not be the same song as in test 1). The jury may ask you to perform one or more additional songs. The test may also include an interview.
   Point scale: 0–50 points, pass requires 25 points.
   
2. Sight reading
   You will sing on sight a piece given to you by the jury, with accompaniment.
   Point scale: 0–3 points, pass requires 1 point.
   
3. Musical Interpretation
   The jury will select a short piece for you to perform after 10–15 minutes of preparation.
   Point scale: 0–5 points, pass requires 1 point.
   

Instrumental performance

1. Entrance Audition
   Select one piece from your repertoire list to perform. (It should not be the same piece as in test 1) The jury may ask you to perform other pieces from your list. You may also have to play a required piece (applies to some instruments but not all). You may also be tested on other technical skills. An interview may also be included.
   Point scale: 0–50 points, pass requires 25 points.
   
   Special instructions for applicants on
   
   Recorder:
   You may play on any size or style of recorder. Your repertoire list should cover multiple instrument types and should include music from the twentieth century.
   Lute:
   You should perform on at least one of the following historical plucked string instruments: Renaissance lute, Baroque lute, Baroque guitar, or theorbo.
   Harpsichord:
   Your audition will include both solo playing and figured bass.
   
   
2. Sight reading
   You will play on sight a piece given to you by the jury.
   Point scale: 0–3 points, pass requires 1 point.
   
3. Musical Interpretation
   The jury will select a short piece for you to perform after 10 minutes of preparation.
   Point scale: 0–5 points, pass requires 1 point.
   

Tests code: LS 11.1b Huvudämne tidig musik
Test time: approx. 10–25 minutes
Assessment: The test is qualifying and a basis for selection. You can receive a maximum of 58 points. The points required to pass each part of the test are listed above.