Student Recitals

Public performance is part of musical training. The Department offers several recital opportunities to help you develop as a performer.

Departmental Recitals

Departmental recitals provide performance opportunities in a supportive environment. They are open to all students currently taking applied lessons with teacher approval.

  • There are about 6 recitals per semester, typically held Tuesdays/Thursdays 11:00–noon
    • Minimum of 20 minutes total music required for the recital to proceed
    • Scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis
  • To perform, submit an entry form to Departmental Recital Coordinator by the deadline that appears on the form for your intended recital date.
    • Include accurate timings for all pieces
    • Check in with the Head Usher before recital

Recordings of departmental recitals are archived. You may obtain a copy of your performance from the Recording Crew Chief.

Half and Full Recitals

Recitals are required for the following degrees:

  • B.A. (performance emphasis)/B.M. Performance
    • Half recital (Junior I.S.) and full recital (Senior I.S.).
  • B.M.E./B.M.T.
    • Half recital in junior or senior year (may be full with permission from Chair).

Optional recitals may be given by any student in applied lessons who fulfill the prerequisites given below.

Time Requirements

  • Half recital: 25–30 minutes of music
  • Full recital: 45+ minutes of music

Prerequisites

Before presenting a recital, you must:

  • Perform on at least two departmental recitals on the same instrument/voice
    • Composers need to have works performed on at least two departmental recitals.
  • Pass a pre-recital jury (see below)

Some recitals have additional requirements:

  • B.A./B.M. with vocal performance emphasis and B.M.E. giving degree recital in voice must demonstrate singing proficiency in at least two modern non-English languages before the senior/degree recital.
  • For optional recitals, you must also submit a written request to the Chair with
    • Documentation of departmental recital performances and your applied teacher’s endorsement
    • For optional  full recitals, provide documentation of a previous half recital.

Scheduling

  • To schedule a recital, email the Administrative Coordinator beginning June 15th of the summer prior to the recital.
  • Optional recitals are not allowed after spring break.
  • If you are giving a half recital, please work with another performer to create a shared full recital.
  • Seniors seeking consideration for Pi Kappa Lambda Performance Prizes should give their recital by early April.

Pre-Recital Jury

The pre-recital jury ensures that your repertoire is ready for public performance.

  • Scheduling is arranged by your applied teacher
    • Must be at least 3 weeks before the recital
      • If the three-week mark falls on a weekend, during fall break, or during the second week of spring break, then the jury may take place on the following Monday.
      • If the three-week mark falls during the first week of spring break, then the jury should precede spring break.
    • Only one jury will be heard for each proposed recital date.
  • Perform your entire recital program for three jurors
    • If performance meets/exceeds recital standards, then the recital approved.
    • If standards are not met, your recital must be rescheduled with a new jury for the new date.

Other Recital Logistics

  • Program
    • You may only perform pieces/recordings approved at your pre-recital jury.
      • You may omit pieces after the jury but cannot add new pieces
      • Submit complete program information within one week of passing your pre-recital jury.
    • Intermissions are discouraged
  • Recordings
    • All students giving departmentally approved recitals receive a free recording.
  • Receptions
    • Receptions must be arranged through the Administrative Coordinator (you are responsible for setup and cleanup).

Senior Music Hour

A special departmental recital celebrating graduating seniors is held during Commencement weekend. You’re encouraged to participate if you:

  • Secure the recommendation of your applied teacher
  • Have performed on at least 2 departmental recitals

If selected, you may perform one piece under 5 minutes.