Undergraduate Theory Placement Exam Information

Music Theory Placement Exam: As part of your audition, you will be required to take a music theory placement exam. This exam has no bearing on whether you are admitted to the department of music. Rather, the purpose of the music theory placement exam is to ensure that you are placed into the appropriate level of music theory for your own musical and academic growth and success. The Music Theory Placement Exam is offered at on-campus audition days. If you audition remotely (at Solo & Ensemble, All-State, etc.) or via video, you will receive the music theory placement link shortly after your audition is received/performed.

You are not required to prepare for the Music Theory Placement Exam, but doing so is a good idea. To prepare for this exam, study the following (listed in order of importance): 

• Note reading in treble and bass clefs 
• Major scales in treble and bass clefs (recognition and construction) 
• Major key signatures in treble and bass clefs  (recognition and construction) 
• Minor scales in treble and bass clefs  (recognition and construction) 
• Minor key signatures in treble and bass clefs  (recognition and construction) 
• Intervals in treble and bass clefs (recognition and construction) 
• Major and minor triads in treble and bass clefs (recognition and construction) 

It is also a good idea to take basic piano lessons if you have not done so. 

Contact music theory coordinator, Professor Melissa Hoag ([email protected]), with any questions regarding placement in music theory.