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Pre-Screens and Artist Résumés

Pre-Screens

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A pre-screen is a video recording of specified repertoire submitted as part of a student’s application to a conservatory or music program. Faculty review the pre-screen before deciding whether to invite the student to an in-person or virtual audition.

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What to Expect: Each program has unique pre-screening requirements, including repertoire and formatting guidelines. Students should carefully review these instructions on the program’s website before application season (typically September to December).

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When to Submit: Pre-screens are usually due by December 1st, with no late submissions accepted. Plan accordingly to meet the deadline.

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How to Prepare: Start working on your pre-screen video well in advance to ensure high-quality results.

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Where to Record: Many students use private recording studios. Below is a list of studios frequently used by SMS students:

 

SMS also offers recording opportunities in the Black Box. Students interested in this option should contact Dean Copper for rates and availability.


Timeline & Tips

End of Junior Year

  • Review repertoire with your private teacher.

  • Confirm which schools require pre-screens and note their guidelines.

  • Create a summer practice plan.

Early Summer

  • Begin consistent practice on selected repertoire.

  • Schedule mock run-throughs with teacher or accompanist.

  • Check technical needs (camera, mic, file formats).

Mid–Late Summer

  • Reserve professional studio time if needed (slots fill quickly).

  • Do test recordings at home for sound and lighting.

  • Keep polishing performance for consistency.

Early Fall (Senior Year)

  • Record final pre-screen videos (studio or home).

  • Review recordings with teacher and select strongest takes.

  • Prepare files for submission.

Before Deadlines

  • Label and format files exactly as schools request.

  • Upload early to avoid tech problems.

  • Confirm your submission was received.

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Additional Information

Presentation Matters

  • Dress as if you’re at a live audition (dresses below the knee, not m.

  • Stand or sit with good posture to show confidence and readiness.

  • Look engaged; facial expressions and body language count.

  • Frame Yourself

    • For singers: frame from head to waist so your posture and breathing can be seen.

    • For instrumentalists: frame so the instrument and your hands are fully visible.

  • If self-recording, keep the camera stable (use a tripod, stand, or steady surface)

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Proper Dress for Pre-Screen Recordings

Your appearance should support your performance, not distract from it.

Dress as if you are walking into a live audition: neat, modest, and professional.

  • Dresses/Skirts: Should fall below the knee when standing.

  • Tops: No midriff exposure; choose modest necklines.

  • Pants/Shirts: Dark pants with a dress shirt; tie and suit jacket are optional

  • Shoes: Dress shoes are best. Avoid sneakers, sandals, or casual footwear.

  • Hair: Keep hair neatly styled and off the face so the committee can see you clearly.

  • Jewelry & Nails: Avoid large jewelry, flashy accessories, or bright/long nails — they pull attention away from your performance.

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Your pre-screen video is often the first impression an admissions committee has of you. Dressing appropriately shows professionalism and respect for the process and keeps the focus on your music.

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Recommended Reading: College Prep for Musicians: A Comprehensive Guide for Students, Parents, Teachers, & Counselors

Artist Résumé

 

​An artist's résumé provides schools with a clear, concise overview of their artistic background, accomplishments, and experiences. It should be 1-2 pages in length and highlight your growth as an artist, showcasing key achievements, awards, and professional milestones. ​

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Sections to Include:

  1. Education: Academic background, especially artistic training.

  2. Teachers: Primary instructors and mentors.

  3. Master Class Experience: Notable masterclasses and teachers/artists you’ve worked with

  4. Ensemble Experience: Group performances (orchestra, chamber music, etc.)

  5. Honors & Awards: List any recognitions, scholarships, or awards you’ve received in your field.

  6. Other Experience: Music festivals, camps, internships, or relevant employment

 

Important Notes:

  • Avoid Program Bios: A résumé is not a program biography. Keep it focused on your accomplishments and experiences rather than personal anecdotes.

  • Tailor for Your Discipline: Each artistic discipline has unique expectations, so adapt the content accordingly. For instance, musicians might highlight different elements than visual artists.

  • Provide Context: While the arts faculty is familiar with your discipline, they may not be aware of the specific programs you’ve attended or their level of prestige. When appropriate, add context to explain the significance of your accomplishments (e.g., competitiveness of a program, details about a prestigious festival or event).

  • Be Specific: Whenever possible, include details such as the program’s name, the competition level, and the year you participated. If you attended a nationally recognized program, such as Juilliard Pre-College, briefly explain its prestige or selectivity.

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Repertoire List:

Some schools may require a repertoire list, which details the musical works you have studied and performed. This list provides insight into the depth and breadth of your experience.

Your repertoire list should include the following information:

  • Your Name

  • Instrument

  • Degree Program: Specify the degree to which you are applying (e.g., Bachelor of Music, Master of Arts).

  • Repertoire Studied: List the works you have studied or performed over the past four years. Include the name of each work along with the composer (e.g., Beethoven, Symphony No. 7), and the date or period of performance (e.g., 2023).

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Repertoire Categories:

  • Concertos

  • Sonatas

  • Etudes

  • Chamber Music

  • Art Song

  • Arias

By categorizing your repertoire, you give the admissions committee a clearer sense of your artistic development and the variety of music you have worked with.

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See the provided example of a music resume: piano

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