Music Industry (Commercial Music)

We are excited to have you audition for our Music Industry Program (Commercial Music) at CSUN!

Your audition will consist of three parts:

  • A performance audition on your major instrument.
    • Reminder: all "MIS: Commercial music" auditions (ie: MIS: Commercial Music - Drums, Piano, Voice, Guitar, Bass) are by video submission only; video means we must see and hear you.
    • (If you are playing classical music, see the audition requirements for your instrument and you may audition by video or in-person.) 
  • Written Interview
  • An Interview with the Program Director

NOTE: All videos/materials are due uploaded within the posted grace period after your regular CSU Apply deadline.

1) PERFORMANCE AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

MIS - Commercial Music Applied Audition (Video Submission Only)

Commercial Music instruments/vocals currently taught are vocals, keyboard, drums, guitar and bass. Singer/songwriters are also encouraged to apply. Stylistically, the music should be in one or more Commercial Music styles, including rock, pop, folk, singer/songwriter, R&B, and related styles. Commercial Music application repertoire should not be drawn from classical or jazz styles. 

Applicants should choose work that demonstrates their level of achievement in both musical and technical areas. (Send us your best stuff!) Applicants wishing to focus in commercial instrumental or vocal as their applied area should submit:

  • Videos (or combined video) of 3 to 5 examples of performances. Videos from actual concerts, studio, or home-studio video recordings and professionally released tracks are all accepted. Examples must demonstrate at least two different styles of playing, and remember, we must see you performing. Additionally, vocalists must not use AutoTune or similar software.
  • Applicants may be invited for an interview over Zoom with the Commercial Music area coordinator if deemed necessary.

2) WRITTEN INTERVIEW

  • Applicants will be required to answer a set of interview questions in writing which will allow the Option Coordinator to assess each applicant’s career aspirations, capabilities, character, and ability to network with the professional music community. 

3) INTERVIEW

Applicants will interview with the Program Director, by zoom on Audition Days.

NOTE: The Program Director will also hold some information Q and A session zoom meetings around the dates/times of audition. Students will receive e-mails about these sessions.