Department of Music

Musical Ensembles

If you’re a music major, you’ll perform in one, or maybe all, of Brenau’s music ensembles. All of our ensembles accept students of any major though some require an audition. Some of the ensembles also allow faculty, staff and community members to join, so share this information with anyone who loves making music!

Gospel Choir

This uplifting choral ensemble, which primarily focuses on the study and performance of gospel music, is open to Brenau students, faculty, staff and community members.

Opera Workshop

Students may audition to be a part of the Opera Workshop, which involves studying opera, rehearsals, and ultimately performing opera scenes or a full-scale opera production.

Spectrum Instrumental Ensemble

This ensemble is our only instrumental ensemble on campus. It is open to all students who can play an instrument. Bring back your best band or orchestra memories by continuing your instrumental study with us.

Spectrum Singers Ensemble

Open to all students, faculty/staff, and the community, Spectrum Singers Ensemble studies and performs a wide range of popular, multicultural and traditional music styles.

Vocal Chamber Ensemble

Requiring an audition for acceptance, Vocal Chamber Ensemble is a select choral group that studies and performs vocal chamber music from a wide range of historical periods.

Music Events

Audition Information

Once admitted to Brenau University, students have the opportunity to audition to become a Music major. Talent-based scholarships are awarded and students will be placed in appropriate level courses and lessons based upon their audition.

How to Prepare for Your Audition

Here are a few things to keep in mind to help you have a successful audition:

• Make sure you have the musical experiences that will help you:
  • AP Music Theory
  • Piano
  • Private lessons for voice or your primary instrument
• Contact Brenau faculty if you need help choosing pieces for your audition
• Practice, practice, practice
  • Record yourself and listen, thinking critically about your performance
• Dress appropriately for your audition
• Visit Brenau’s campus and meet our faculty, so you can ask additional questions

Audition Requirements:

Specific requirements are listed below. Prospective students will also be tested in ear training and sight-reading skills.

Collaborative Pianists 

• Perform two pieces from memory, one of which must be at a fast tempo
  • One sonata or sonatina movement from the Baroque or Classical period
  • One piece from the Romantic, Impressionistic or Contemporary period

Vocalists

• Perform two standard English, Italian, French or German art songs from memory
  • English may be substituted for a foreign language
  • You may perform one operatic aria, show tune or church song, as long as it is appropriate for your voice

Instrumentalists

• Perform two pieces of contrasting moods, from memory, from the standard repertoire of the instrument