Manhattan School of Music is currently preparing for the start of Audition Week 2025! These on-campus & virtual auditions, which take place from FEB 28—MAR 7, are set to include nearly 2,000 applicants.
We asked the admission student office workers what their top audition tips were — here is what keeps them feeling calm, cool, and collected during audition season!
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Themba Pieterse (BM '25), Student Government President
“Remember: the panel isn’t looking for perfection! No performance is perfect, they just want to see where you are right now. Take a deep breath, keep your head up high, and perform!“ -
Kayla Thomas (BM '26), Student Government Vice President
“You got this! The most unique and eye-catching thing you can be to the panel is unapologetically you. Come hydrated and relaxed, and plan to have a meal after at Bar 314!” -
Eugenia Cho (MM '25), orchestral violin
“This is super cliche and so much easier said than done, but you have to believe that you are ready for this audition!
I recently discovered that over warming up is a thing. Like really really a thing. I feel like I realized this too late, but better late than never! You have to go into the audition feeling comfortable and warm, but not tired out and sleepy. If you over practice / warm up, you’re physically telling your body that you are not ready.” -
Aaron Ouellette (MM '26), jazz trumpet
“Don’t play to prove yourself! It’s a natural desire to want to do your best, but trying to prove yourself can be counterproductive. Your hard work has earned you an audition at MSM, so be confident, honest, and give the faculty the best taste of where you are musically in the moment.”
“The faculty are on your side, and they want nothing more than for you to do well in your audition! All of the faculty at MSM are incredibly passionate about music & teaching, and are in your corner throughout the whole experience.”
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Luke Randazzo (BM '26), classical voice
“Listen to your body — it knows what it needs! If your audition is earlier in the day, waking up at an appropriate time to get a good breakfast in can make a world of difference. Stick to what you know works well for you — the day of an audition isn’t the best time to experiment with your morning routine.
The faculty are on your side, and they want nothing more than for you to do well in your audition! All of the faculty at MSM are incredibly passionate about music & teaching, and are in your corner throughout the whole experience.” -
Jack Rittendale (MM '25), classical viola
“Auditions are not a competition. Don’t psyche yourself out — try to focus on only yourself and what you have to offer.
MSM fosters a really special community of violists. The environment here is non-competitive, and the faculty is incredibly supportive in helping you find your own sound as a musician.” -
Lindsey Scanio (MM '25), classical voice
“Remember that the panel wants you to do your very best — they are looking to see authentic musicians with potential, so just have fun with it!” -
Jacob Eddy (BM '27), classical composition
“Ask questions! If you’re unsure about anything about the process, send an email to admission@msmnyc.edu! The Admission Team is more than happy to answer any questions. Remember — they are here for you!”
Best of luck to all incoming auditionees! We can’t wait to introduce you to our community of passionate young musicians.
If you have any questions along the way, please email admission@msmnyc.edu — we’re always happy to help!
