Strings

The Drake University Department of Music concentrates on providing a superior undergraduate education. You'll study with teachers who are regionally, nationally, and internationally recognized as artists/teachers.
Studio string faculty include:
Audition Guidelines for Music Majors
String Bass:
- Any two-octave scale and arpeggio in any bowing combination
- A movement of a classical or romantic work from the standard repertoire
- An etude of your choice
Guitar:
- I-IV-V7-I chord progressions in major: C, D, E, F, G, A, as well as relative minor.
- Two octave scale and arpeggio from the Giuliani 120 daily
- An etude such as Aguado, Carcassi, Sor, or Giuliani
- A movement from a concerto or representative work of Tarrega
Violin & Viola:
- Two contrasting repertoire movements/selections such as unaccompanied works, concerti, or concert pieces (they should differ in tempo and historical period). No orchestral excerpts or chamber music.
- One etude, such as Mazas, Fiorillo, Rode, Kreutzer, etc.
-
Major, melodic and harmonic minor scales and major and minor arpeggios (2 or 3 octaves - your choice):
choose 2 keys, one from List A and one from List B
Violin:
List A: G, A, B-flat, B, C, D
List B: A-flat, D-flat, E-flat, E, F, F#
Viola:
List A: C, D, E-flat, E, F, G
List B: D-flat, F#, A-flat, A, B-flat, B"
Applicants are encouraged to consult with Dr. Maureen Yuen (
maureen.yuen@drake.edu) with questions about repertoire selection or technical requirements
Cello:
- A movement of solo Bach
- A movement of a classical or romantic work from the standard repertoire
- An etude of your choice
Audition Guidelines for Music Minors and Non-Major Participants
- Two contrasting pieces (no orchestral excerpts or chamber music)
Admission & Fine Arts Scholarships:
The Department of Music offers attractive Fine Arts Scholarships for all talented students interested in a music major or minor; there are some Fine Arts Scholarships available for non-majors who want to participate in the ensemble programs. In order to qualify both for admission to the Department of Music and for a Fine Arts Scholarship, prospective students must audition by February 16, 2024.
Degrees available for string students: