Although consideration and admittance to the School for Music Vocations at Southwestern Community College may be given at any time, prime consideration is given to those individuals who audition by May 10 for the following school year.
For all instruments including voice, we ask to hear the following prepared pieces:
- One classical piece of any length (For vocalists, this might be an art song, lied, aria, musical theater piece, etc.)
- One jazz (i.e. ballad, swing, bossa nova, samba, etc.) or pop song
- Optional: a second jazz or pop song in a contrasting style
Instrumental or vocal improvisation (scat-singing) is encouraged.
Please note: To start the process of applying to our music program, please apply online.
Additional things to note:
- It is preferred that all pieces be memorized. Please have an accompanist available or bring a recorded accompaniment.
- If you are a singer or instrumentalist who also can play the piano, we urge you to consider playing a piece/song on the piano for our faculty, no matter what experience level you consider yourself to be.
- Percussionists/drummers, bass players, pianists, and guitarists will be asked to play and comp over basic chord changes in a variety of styles including: swing, bossa nova, samba, swing-shuffle, rock-shuffle, and straight eighth-note rock.
- Our in-person auditions are very user-friendly. Our intent is not to scare anyone, but rather to simply provide the chance for young musicians to demonstrate their potential. We want you to succeed!
- We prefer for you to audition in person by visiting The School for Music Vocations, so that you might also sit in on a typical day of our classes. To set up an audition, please contact Tobi Crawford at the contact information below. In lieu of an in-person visit, we will accept a video performance addressing the above requirements. Video files may be emailed (with a corresponding message) to Tobi Crawford at
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , or an audition on digital media (SD card or small USB drive) may be mailed to:
The School for Music Vocations – Auditions
1501 W. Townline St.
Creston, IA. 50801
If you have any questions, please call Tobi Crawford, program instructor, at 641.782.1479.