Drum Set Audition Requirements

Popular Music & Singer-Songwriters

Perform three to five cover songs that highlight your instrumental skill level. You may accompany yourself or use recorded tracks. If using recorded tracks, adjust the volume so that your performance is clearly discernible.

Video Introduction: Tell us about who you are as an artist. Record a short (2-5 minutes) video introduction, including information about your artistic journey, such as the kinds of classes or lessons you have taken, your artistic accomplishments, any awards you have won, groups you have participated in, artistic experiences that have been particularly meaningful, and anything else you would like for us to know about you as an artist.

If you are unable to present all of the suggested audition materials, please submit materials that clearly display your present level and potential.

Jazz

Please demonstrate the following grooves for at least eight measures each at the similar tempo to the recording provided (all grooves listenable at the hyperlink for each groove). It can be one take, or small clips of each.
1. Swing in 4 feel with Sticks
2. Swing in 2 feel with Sticks (very beginning of video)
3. Swing in 4 with Brushes
4. Funk or Rock Beat (play your favorite beat from this video!)
5. Bossa Nova Beat
6. 2-3 Son Clave Beat
Please perform one jazz standard of your choice, either with a live band, a backing track (without drums in the track), or with a jazz record (like Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, etc.). Please play time for at least two complete choruses through the form of the tune, and take at least one chorus of drum solo. Lead sheets and resources for the charts below can be found here.

If you are submitting a recorded audition, you may play solo or with a group. You can also play with a full band, guitarist, pianist, or backing track. If you are performing with other musicians, please make sure you can easily be identified.

For more detailed information on the Interlochen Arts Academy application process, please visit our How to Apply page.

Application Deadlines

Nov. 1. The pre-assessment deadline for early action is Nov. 1. If you submit your application by the pre-assessment deadline, your application will be reviewed to ensure your materials are complete and meet all requirements prior to its priority review after the Jan. 15 deadline.
Nov. 15. The early action application deadline is Nov. 15. Meeting the early action deadline better secures your place in our artistic community and provides more opportunities for financial aid.
Dec. 10. The pre-assessment deadline for regular decision is Dec. 10. If you submit your application by the pre-assessment deadline, your application will be reviewed to ensure your materials are complete and meet all requirements prior to its priority review after the Jan. 15 deadline.
Jan. 15. The regular decision application deadline is Jan. 15.

Applications will remain open after the regular decision deadline as space permits. Please contact the Office of Admission & Financial Aid with any questions.

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How to Apply