Band Auditions & Scholarships

TSU Band Audition & Scholarship Opportunities

Prospective wind and percussion players can audition for the Texas Southern University Band, demonstrating musical ability through scales, prepared pieces, and sight-reading. Scholarships are awarded based on admission status, FAFSA submission, and musical proficiency, with additional funding available for out-of-state students. Early auditions (before April 15th) are recommended for scholarship consideration. Online and on-site audition options ensure accessibility, allowing students to showcase their talents and join TSU’s prestigious band program.

Audition Requirements

Wind Players: 12 Major Scales (preferably 2 octaves and from memory), Prepared Piece (audition etude, solo, etc.), Sight-Reading.

Percussion Players: 40 PAS rudiments and/or major scales, prepared piece, and sight-reading.

Scholarship Distribution

Scholarship contracts are distributed via email to selected prospective students. The following criteria must be met before a final offer is made:

Accepted for admission into Texas Southern University
FAFSA must be submitted and information sent to TSU

Please be advised that everyone will not receive a scholarship offer. Acceptance into the band is NOT A GUARANTEE of receiving a scholarship offer. That said, an early audition (before April 15th) is advised if you are interested in a scholarship.

Band Scholarship Amount

In-State Students: Amounts are determined by:

Musical Ability
GPA and Test Scores
Our specific instrumental needs in a particular year
EFC (Estimated Family Contribution based on your completed FAFSA, which MUST be on file with the university)
Available scholarship funds (audition as early as possible!).

Out-of-State Students

We have a limited number of out-of-state fee waivers (equivalent to $12,000-$14,000 per year, depending on classes taken). Students who receive a band scholarship are eligible for (but again, not guaranteed) an out-of-state waiver from the band.

Online Auditions

You can audition online via FaceTime, Skype, Messenger, or Google Hangouts (we will send you the sight-reading just before your appointment). You can also upload your scales/rudiments/prepared piece to YouTube (we recommend an unlisted video), and send us the link. You will then sight-read via video chat.

Band On-Site Audition Dates

2021 on-site audition dates will be announced soon! Students can also make an appointment to audition by calling 713.313.7336 or emailing us at linda.coach-riley@tsu.edu.