2012-2013 Application & Audition Instructions
The links below contain important application and audition information. Be sure to read carefully and observe published requirements. Applications submitted inappropriately will be placed "On Hold" and will not be processed.
Click on any of the items below for easy navigation, and on the following link to access the online application: www.cim.edu/application.
Programs of Study
The Cleveland Institute of Music offers the following degree and non-degree programs:
- Bachelor of Music
- Dual-Degree Programs (undergraduate only). These five-year programs lead to the awarding of two undergraduate degrees - a Bachelor of Music degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music and a second degree in a major offered at Case Western Reserve University. Applicants for these programs apply only to CIM. No application to Case Western Reserve University is required. Through cooperation with the university's undergraduate admission office, CIM handles all matters relating to admission, financial aid, tuition, room and board, and registration.
- Artist Certificate (undergraduate, non-degree)*
- Master of Music
- Professional Studies (graduate, non-degree)*
- Artist Diploma (graduate, non-degree)*
- Doctor of Musical Arts
DMA applicants must apply for admission to the Fall semester only.
Applicants interested exclusively in the following degree programs should apply through the undergraduate or graduate admission offices at Case Western Reserve University:
Bachelor of Science in Music Education**
Bachelor of Arts in Music**
Master of Arts in Music History
Master of Arts in Music Education
Admission to a CIM program of study assumes an applicant's intention to enroll on a full-time basis and become fully involved in school activities. Admitted applicants are eligible to enroll only after officially confirming intent to do so. (see Confirmation of Intent to Enroll for requirements).
* Click the links below to review the Gainful Employment Disclosure forms for CIM's non-degree programs:
Back to topMajors
The following fields of study are available in all degree and non-degree programs unless otherwise indicated: audio recording (BM only), bassoon, cello, cello and Suzuki pedagogy (MM only), clarinet, collaborative piano (MM, PS, AD, and DMA only), composition (BM, MM, PS, and DMA only), Dalcroze eurhythmics (BM only), double bass, flute, guitar (classical), harp, harpsichord, horn, oboe, orchestral conducting (MM and PS only), organ, piano, timpani and percussion, trombone, bass trombone, trumpet, tuba, viola, violin, violin and Suzuki pedagogy (MM only), and voice.
Back to topApplication & Audition Procedures
The following sections provide a ready reference to CIM's application and audition process. Do read carefully the information provided. After having done so, the Admission Office is ready to assist if you fail to find something for which you are searching. Phone 216.795.3107 or email admission@cim.edu.
Initially, please note:
- auditions are arranged only after receipt of application;
- the Admission Office schedules audition appointments and not individual faculty members;
- there is no separate application for financial aid; the online application has all the information needed to begin the financial aid process.
Back to topDeadlines
(Applications are welcome after deadlines but with modest late fee.)
(Published deadlines are observed in Eastern Standard Time - GMT-5)
December 1 (Fall admission)
October 1 (Spring admission)
Back to topApplication Fee (nonrefundable)
- $110 on or before December 1
- $160 beginning December 2
This nonrefundable fee can be paid by credit card when you submit your online application. Credit card information will be submitted securely. There are no fee waivers.
Back to topSupporting Application Documents
In order to complete your online application as quickly as possible, you should scan and upload your academic records, standardized test scores, etc. in addition to your videos. Nothing needs to be mailed to CIM. If you do mail materials to CIM, the process will be significantly slower, but they will be scanned and uploaded to your application. Offers of admission, scholarship and financial aid are made only to applicants who have submitted all required materials. Consequently, you should read this section most carefully to avoid having problems with your application. Capability and willingness to follow direction is a considered factor in the admission process.
- Request official academic records to be mailed to you from each school you have attended. After you have received all required academic documents, open the envelopes and scan each one separately and in the order in which you attended, most recent first. Though some schools do not like to issue academic records directly to students, you should have them do so and request that they stamp the record "Unofficial" or "Issued to Student".
- All scans must be legible (grey scale or black and white recommended).
- All scans must be complete -- every page of each record must be scanned, including backs of transcripts when they are not blank. If your scans do not meet this requirement, then scan again before uploading.
- Only PDF or JPEG documents will be accepted.
- Document orientation -- when you scan your documents, make sure the orientation is correct; records printed vertically (Portrait) should be scanned so that they appear in Portrait format in the PDF; likewise, transcripts printed horizontally (Landscape) must appear in Landscape format in the PDF. If your scans do not meet this requirement, then scan again before uploading.
- Before scanning, be sure to mark out the Social Security Number (SSN) if it is printed. Other than that, there should be no marks on your records.
- DO NOT mail paper copies or forward email attachments of academic records unless directed to so by the CIM Admission Office.
- All uploaded academic documents are considered unofficial. After you are admitted, you will be instructed on the process for submitting final, official academic records. Eligibility to enroll will be contingent upon receipt and verification of official and final transcripts. These must show dates for the awarding of diplomas, degrees, etc. CIM reserves the right to rescind any offer of admission when there are discrepancies between unofficial and official transcripts. At any time during the admission process, you may be required to provide an official record from any institution listed in your application.
- Transcripts must provide a listing, year by year, of all courses taken and the grades or marks received for each. Records must also provide the grading scale for each institution. This applies also to applicants who are home schooled. If your scans do not meet this requirement, then scan again before uploading.
- To be considered, all documents not in English must be accompanied by English translations from the issuing institutions or recognized translation services.
Acceptable Document Formats
- Scanned copies of academic records produced by the issuing institutions in PDF or JPEG format. Once you have uploaded your files, be sure to view them and make sure they are legible throughout. If not, adjust your scanner settings and try again.
- Electronic copies of transcripts produced by the institutions.
- If you need assistance, please note that public libraries, office supply stores (Kinko's, Office Max, Office Depot, Staples, etc.), and other services can create scanned documents for you. As a last resort, if you are absolutely unable to upload a record, contact the CIM Admission Office at admission@cim.edu for instructions.
Unacceptable Document Formats
A web-based print-out showing your academic history is NOT acceptable and should NOT be uploaded.
What documents must you upload?
Undergraduates (Bachelor of Music and Artist Certificate applicants)
- SAT or ACT test results for U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents; Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) results for international applicants. Score reports must be uploaded separately from transcripts.
- Advanced Placement (AP) test results must also be uploaded separately, if applicable.
- Secondary school transcripts for every secondary school attended.
- Transfer applicants -- College transcripts from every school attended from which there are potential college credits to transfer.
Graduates (Master of Music, Professional Studies, Artist Diploma, and Doctor of Musical Arts applicants)
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) results for international applicants. Score reports must be uploaded separately from transcripts.
- College transcripts for all schools attended
Back to topDue Dates
December 1 (Fall admission) or October 1 (Spring admission). Documents received after these dates will delay application processing, audition scheduling, and/or admission.
Back to topSAT/ACT
Undergraduates (including transfer applicants) who are US citizens or Permanent Residents must upload at the time of application an ACT or SAT test report. Even if the scores are recorded on secondary school transcripts, they must be uploaded separately.
Prospective students who need to register for one of these examinations or who need to receive a score report for a completed examination should note the following:
- ACT - The CIM school code for the ACT is 3250. Call (319) 337-1313 to order a score report.
- SAT - The CIM school code for the SAT is 1124. Call (866) 756-7346 to order a score report.
Test results are used during the admission process, in conjunction with audition results, letters of recommendation, class rank, and grade-point average, to assist in arriving at a composite, qualitative assessment of each individual. Furthermore, test results provide the basis upon which each student is assigned to an appropriate entry-level English course.
Back to topDocumentation for International Applicants
To be considered, all submitted documents not in English must be accompanied by English translations from the issuing institutions or recognized translation service. Documents submitted without translations will not be accepted.
International applicants who are already in the U.S. must also be prepared to provide authoritative documentation concerning entry into the U.S. (passport, visa, etc.).
Back to topTest of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
International applicants for whom English is a second language must complete the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). No other form of testing is acceptable, and there are no exceptions to this requirement.
TOEFL score reports must be uploaded at the time of application and CIM's online application provides an easy method for doing so. Prospective students who need to register for the TOEFL or who need to receive a score report for a completed examination should note the following:
- The CIM school code for TOEFL is 1124. When registering for the test or when ordering a score report, no departmental code is necessary. Call TOEFL at (609) 771-7100 to order a score report.
No audition can be scheduled until the applicant attains the following minimum standard:
- Bachelor of Music - 61 (iBT)
- Master of Music - 61 (iBT)
- Doctor of Musical Arts - 90 (iBT)
- The minimum TOEFL requirement for non-degree programs (Artist Certificate, Artist Diploma, and Professional Studies) - 51 (iBT)
No applicant can be admitted until the applicant attains the following minimum standard:
- Bachelor of Music - 79 (iBT)
- Master of Music - 79 (iBT)
- Doctor of Musical Arts - 100 (iBT)
- The minimum TOEFL requirement for non-degree programs (Artist Certificate, Artist Diploma, and Professional Studies) - 61 (iBT)
TOEFL Timeline
Applicants for whom English is a second language are required to submit test results on the TOEFL examination (Test of English as a Foreign Language). CIM requires these test results before scheduling an audition; therefore, it is most important to plan a detailed TOEFL timeline and to schedule test dates by working BACKWARD from CIM's application deadlines (December 1 for fall admission or October 1 for spring admission).
Students need to factor into their timelines the following: 1) the time they must wait for an available test date, 2) the time they must wait before receiving their scores, and 3) the additional time needed for re-testing in the event they do not meet minimum score requirements. Obtaining satisfactory TOEFL results is a reward for careful planning. Plan now!
Visa
During the application process, the CIM Admission Office emails audition date confirmations to everyone planning live auditions in Cleveland; once an audition date is confirmed, a copy of this email may be used to obtain a B-2 visa for entry into the United States. A U.S. Consular Post may, in some cases, additionally require a "letter of invitation" from CIM for the visa interview. The applicant should then request an invitation letter from the CIM Admission Office at admission@cim.edu.
All international students attending CIM require a student visa (F-1). They receive I-20 forms to obtain that visa after official admission has been granted and after officially declaring intent to enroll.
Once an international applicant is admitted and has completed all required procedures for declaring intent to enroll, that person will be contacted by the International Student Advisor with extensive instructions on how to obtain an F-1 student visa. Along with instructions, a SEVIS-generated I-20 document will be sent in the mail. This, in addition to other supporting documents, will be used to obtain the F-1 visa stamp at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consular Post. Canadian students are exempt from this last step; they will receive an I-20, but do not need to apply for the F-1 visa stamp. For visa purposes, international applicants must provide a non-U.S. permanent address when completing the online application.
Financial Aid for International Applicants
All international applicants are eligible for CIM scholarship consideration, and they must document ability to pay the cost of attendance for one year, including tuition, room, board, medical insurance, student fees, and personal expenses. Funding may be combined from several sources, including CIM scholarship, but the total must cover all costs related to attending CIM. Applicants who do not have sufficient funding to cover expenses should research all additional possibilities of support. For more information, please visit our Financial Aid web page.
Back to topLetters of Recommendation
The recommendation process involves no paper, and nothing should be mailed to CIM. The online application requires each applicant to provide the names and email addresses of two persons who have agreed to provide electronic recommendations. These persons should be unrelated to the applicant and qualified to attest to musical ability. CIM contacts these persons directly for secure submission of their letters.
Recommendations should be completed as soon as possible since they are an important part of the admission process.
Back to topSecondary School Transcripts/Transfer Applicants
If you are applying for undergraduate study (transfer applicants included), you must upload to your application transcripts from the secondary schools you have attended. Home-schooled students must also submit transcripts showing subjects studied and grades earned. Transfer applicants must submit both secondary school and college/university transcripts.
According to the recommendation of the Ohio Board of Regents, it is suggested that a 16-unit College Preparatory Program include the following courses (note: this distribution is a recommendation and not a requirement):
- 4 Units in English, with emphasis in Composition
- 3 Units of Mathematics, at least one of which should be taken in the senior year (Algebra I, Algebra II, Plane Geometry)
- 3 Units of Social Studies
- 3 Units of Science
- 3 Units of Foreign Language
CIM considers for admission applicants who have completed secondary education through the General Education Development Program (GED) as administered by various state departments of education. Additionally, the Institute considers home-school applicants without a GED providing they complete either the ACT tests in English and Mathematics or the standard SAT test plus the SAT II test (Math Level 1).
Back to topCollege transcripts/Transfer applicants
Transcripts must be uploaded to your application from all schools attended. Anyone who has not yet graduated should upload transcripts showing all work completed at the time of application; submission of a final transcript is prerequisite for registration.
Transcripts should be uploaded from the following:
- Your current college or university
- Any previously attended school from which a degree or diploma was completed
- Any other previously attended school from which the applicant would like to receive transfer credit
Undergraduate transfer applicants must submit both secondary school and college/university transcripts.
Back to topTeacher Preferences
The online application provides an opportunity for applicants to indicate teacher preferences. Assignment to the schedule of a preferred instructor may be arranged if, in the opinion of the appropriate faculty, that instructor will best meet the needs of the applicant and space is available on that instructor's schedule. Applicants accepted by recorded audition perform for the faculty upon arrival in Cleveland. In such cases, the faculty reserves the right to withhold making a teacher assignment until after the in-person evaluation.
To change teacher preferences from those on a completed application, contact the CIM Admission Office at admission@cim.edu.
Back to topAdvanced Placement Credit
CIM grants degree credit and placement in advanced courses based on the results of College Board Advanced Placement (AP) examinations, successful completion of International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, and CIM-administered admission examinations. Appropriate Case Western Reserve University departments also make credit and placement determinations.
A College Board Advanced Placement score of 4 or higher may receive favorable consideration. Students who wish to take the AP examinations but who are enrolled in high schools that do not offer Advanced Placement courses may contact their high school counselors for registration information. It is the applicant's responsibility to obtain Advanced Placement scores and upload them to their applications. Credit must be declared and awarded during the first year of study. To request express shipment of AP scores, phone 609.771.7300.
Advanced placement credit can also be awarded for IB courses. To receive advanced placement consideration, applicants must complete the HL Test for all courses, except languages, for which the SL Test is required. Depending upon test score results, 3-7 credits per subject can be awarded.
Back to topTransfer Applicants
An applicant, who is enrolled full time at another US college and who is expected to continue enrollment there, must submit CIM's Transfer Clearance Form. While an offer of admission may be possible without this clearance, an offer of scholarship or financial aid during the first semester of CIM study is contingent upon receipt of this document. The Transfer Clearance Form is completed by the school where the applicant is currently enrolled and must be submitted to CIM with an indication of "good standing" and official "release" from that institution.
Each transfer applicant is evaluated on an individual basis and according to CIM's policies, standards, and curricular requirements. Transfer-student status is determined by audition and by admission examinations in theory, ear training, and piano proficiency. Students who have completed course work in form and analysis and counterpoint are also examined in these areas. These required examinations are given on the day of the major audition, with the exception of piano proficiency, which is evaluated during the orientation week preceding the beginning of classes.
Transfer students, with the exception of those in the DMA program, must fulfill the two-year residency requirement by completing four consecutive regular semesters in full-time study at CIM. The minimum residency requirement for DMA students is two consecutive regular semesters.
Back to topTransfer Credit
Transfer applicants and current CIM students may have earned credits from other accredited institutions transferred to CIM. Such transfer credits are applicable toward fulfillment of CIM program requirements, under the following conditions:
- Credits are transferable only if the course grade is a "C" or higher. Therefore, courses completed on a Pass/Fail basis do not transfer unless the school where such courses were taken has a published policy stipulating that Pass is equivalent to at least a grade of "C";
- In placing approved transfer courses on the CIM permanent record, only credit appears. Grades in transfer courses do not appear and do not affect the CIM grade-point average;
- Transfer credit earned in theory, music history/literature, and performance courses is subject to CIM faculty evaluation as a prerequisite for transfer. CIM equivalency examinations may be required to determine transferability of credits in these areas. Advanced Standing credit in core music subjects is awarded by Placement Examination. The number of credits awarded is determined by the demonstrated skill level of the incoming student, not by the number of previously earned credits at another institution;
- Transfer credits for additional non-elective course work are based upon evaluation of a student's transcript and required CIM equivalency examinations, which must be completed during the first semester of study at CIM;
- Course work intended to fulfill CWRU major or minor program requirements is transferable only with the approval of the appropriate CWRU department. Such approval must be sought additionally before undertaking study at another institution;
- Credits earned at schools operating on a quarter system are reduced by one-third when converted to CIM's semester-credit equivalency;
- Graduate students are limited to a maximum of six transfer credits. Though undergraduate transfer applicants have no such credit limitation, all transfer students, except DMA applicants, are subject to a minimum two-year, full-time residency requirement;
- Current CIM students must first obtain approval from the CIM Registrar for transfer course work and receive a letter of approval for transient study, which is required by the host institution.
Final determination of transfer status cannot be made until final, official transcripts from all previously attended schools have been received, all appropriate admission testing has been completed, and all necessary examinations for non-elective course work have been evaluated. Each transfer student meets with the CIM Registrar to confirm final status. All transferred credits are applicable toward fulfillment of CIM diploma or degree requirements.
Back to topInternational Students
At CIM, international students make up approximately 30% of the student body. The Cleveland Institute of Music is pleased to consider applications from individuals who are not citizens or Permanent Residents of the United States. It typically takes international students time to adjust to a different culture and way of life. Additionally, they may encounter academic and musical routines that may be unfamiliar. Students can minimize such difficulties by arriving at CIM properly prepared. Preparation should include a strong academic background, fluency in understanding rapidly spoken English, facility in reading and writing in English, and possession of sufficient funds to ensure financial stability. International students are required to remain in regular communication with the CIM International Student Advisor to ensure compliance with all student visa regulations and maintenance of status.
International applicants must follow the procedures as indicated for entering freshmen, transfer or graduate applicants, as appropriate. Additionally, the following requirements and considerations are most important.
Back to topPassports & Visas
Before leaving the home country, an international student must obtain a passport from the country of citizenship. The passport expiration date must be at least six months later than the intended date of entry into the U.S. With the exception of citizens of Canada, obtaining an F-1 student visa from a U.S. embassy or consulate outside the U.S. is prerequisite for admission to the U.S. for study at CIM. Please note that CIM does not directly participate in the J-1 exchange visitor program. Students admitted for study, who have declared their intent to enroll at CIM, and who have fulfilled all document requirements necessary to apply for (or maintain) the F-1 visa or F-1 immigration status, are issued the eligibility documents (Form I-20) needed to apply for a visa.
The Form I-20 is issued by the CIM International Student Advisor only after all admission requirements have been met and after CIM has received documentation of financial resources. Admitted applicants who wish to attend CIM must officially confirm their intent to enroll within the deadlines specified in their letters of admission and/or financial aid online accounts. CIM cannot guarantee enrollment space or the availability of scholarship or financial aid for anyone who submits intent-to-enroll confirmation after the deadline. Admitted applicants are confirmed as eligible to enroll only upon receipt of all the following items:
- A tuition deposit, as requested by the Admission Office;
- A signed intent to enroll form that accompanies the letter of admission;
- Formal acceptance of scholarship/financial aid via the student online NetPartner account;
- A signed FERPA release form;
- All required financial documentation sufficient to authorize issuance of the eligibility documents for an F-1 student visa or F-1 immigration status.
International applicants who are currently in attendance at other U.S. schools (high school or college) and who wish to transfer to CIM, either in the middle, or at the conclusion of the current program of study, must follow admission procedures outlined in this document. Applicants are also required to observe procedures pertaining to school transfer as prescribed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). An International Student Advisor at the applicant's current school or the CIM Admission Office can assist in providing the necessary school-transfer information.
Back to topCanadian Citizens
International students who are citizens of Canada do not need an F-1 student visa to undertake study in the U.S. F-1 immigration status is conferred by requesting "secondary inspection" during pre-flight or when crossing the Canada-U.S. land border. The student presents the CIM-issued USCIS eligibility documents, and proof of Canadian citizenship (either birth certificate or unexpired passport). During "secondary inspection," the student can be asked to present documentation of financial resources available to support educational expenses.
Back to topDocumentation
Since educational and financial systems vary from one country to another, it is necessary to clearly document the nature of one's academic background and sources of financial support. Therefore, CIM requires certified English translations of all academic and financial documents from countries where English is not the principal language. Original documents are not accepted unless accompanied by certified translations. When such previously certified materials are forwarded by organizations other than the institutions of origin, they must be notarized with regard to authenticity.
Back to topFinancial Resources
To be issued eligibility documents (Form I-20) for an F-1 student visa or for attaining F-1 immigration status (Canadian citizens), U.S. immigration laws and regulations require that the school acquire official documentation of the financial resources available to the student to meet the projected cost of study at CIM. Funding sources may include any one or combination of the following: family and/or personal funds, private or government sponsorship in the home country, CIM Scholarship, sponsor abroad or in the U.S. When the source of funding is an individual other than the student, verification must be provided to CIM that the individual 1) is willing to render support at a specific level and 2) possesses the funds to deliver the promised support. The supporting individual(s) must provide documentation, in the form of notarized affidavits and bank statements, letters of award for scholarships, grants, etc., and other appropriate official forms of documentation.
Many consular officers require documentation of financial resources again as part of the visa application process, and similarly, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (USICE) officers can ask the student to supply original financial support documents during the U.S."admission" process, either in pre-flight, port-of-entry, or border crossing.
International applicants may apply to CIM for financial aid but must understand that such aid can only supplement those sources previously mentioned. CIM cannot supply financial aid to cover an unexpected loss of financial resources while enrolled for study. In such circumstances, the student may have to withdraw from school.
To qualify for issuance of the eligibility documents (Form I-20), the total resources (including any financial aid awarded by CIM) must be equal to or greater than tuition and living expenses projected by CIM. Generally, the international student must plan on the following expenses, exclusive of transportation, books, supplies, and incidental personal expenses, for the nine-month school year:
- CIM Tuition and Annual Fees;
- Room and Board;
- Health insurance.
CIM international students who complete one program of study at CIM and are returning in a new program are required to re-document financial resources as a prerequisite to the school's issuing a new set of eligibility documents.
When assessing available financial resources, students should also anticipate a modest increase in tuition and living expenses of approximately 5-6% each year. Additionally, students should consider the cost of transportation home for vacation periods and/or the cost of summer living expenses, if remaining in the U.S. Such considerations are a part of overall financial planning for the intended period of study.
Because it is important to meet expenses on a timely basis, international applicants should inquire in the home country about regulations governing the transfer of funds to the United States. Students should embark with enough resources to meet the cost of travel and initial tuition, fees, and living costs. Upper-class and graduate students should include in living costs the need for extra funds to place deposits on an apartment and to start up utilities. It is recommended that a student carry an appropriate amount of funds in the form of traveler's checks.
Back to topEmployment
International students often ask about access to employment opportunities when there is a concern about funding education at a U.S. school. On-campus employment (defined as CIM buildings only), not to exceed 20 hours per week while school is in session, is permitted when it is part of the student's CIM financial aid package, or when other types of occasional campus-based employment opportunities arise. No special employment authorization is required for on-campus employment.
F-1 regulations have strict rules about other types of employment. Please speak with the International Student Adviser before accepting any such employment.
Back to topEnglish Requirement
Applicants from other countries must be able to speak, read, write, and comprehend English. To help assess the current level of English competency, international applicants for whom English is a second language must complete the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). No other form of testing or evaluation is acceptable. There are no exceptions to this requirement, and applicants must upload official test results to their applications.
No applicant can be admitted until the applicant attains the following minimum standard:
- Bachelor of Music - 79 (iBT)
- Master of Music - 79 (iBT)
- Doctor of Musical Arts - 100 (iBT)
- Non-degree programs (Artist Certificate, Artist Diploma, and Professional Studies) - 61 (iBT)
The CIM school code for the TOEFL is 1124 (when registering for the test or when ordering a score report, no departmental code is necessary). Phone TOEFL at 609.771.7100 to order a score report.
The TOEFL examination is evaluated in the U.S. by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), which forwards test scores to schools upon an applicant's request. The ETS school code number for CIM is 1124.
Applicants may obtain a bulletin describing TOEFL registration procedures, the location of test centers, and a registration form by writing to:
TOEFL Services / Educational Testing Service
PO Box 6155, Princeton, NJ 08541-6155 U.S.A.
Phone: 609.771.7100 Fax: 609.771.7500
To reinforce English language skills, nonnative speakers admitted for study who have satisfied the minimum TOEFL requirement are assigned to a CWRU English reading and writing course especially designed to accommodate their needs. Continuous enrollment in English study is required of all undergraduate students until English 150 Basic Expository Writing has been satisfactorily completed.
Back to topMedical Insurance
All international students participate in the Student Health Program. By complying with all regulations necessary for the initiation and maintenance of immigration status, an international student is assured of the security needed for productive pursuit of intensive musical study in the U.S.
It is important for all new international students to comply with the requirement of completing the Medical History Form and returning it to University Health Service before beginning classes. Students who have not received a Medical History Form during the admission process should request one from the Associate Dean for Student Affairs at CIM.
Back to topInternational & Local Addresses
International students are required to have a permanent international address, to provide CIM with that address and to inform CIM of any changes in that address. At the same time, international students are required to inform the CIM International Student Advisor of their local (U.S.) address and to report any changes in local address to the Advisor within 10 days of the change. The Advisor is, in turn, required to report international student address changes to USICE.
Back to topConfirmation of Intent to Enroll
Admitted applicants who wish to attend CIM must officially confirm intent to enroll by submitting the items indicated below. These materials must be received in the CIM Admission Office by the deadlines indicated; date of postmark has no applicability. Whenever one of the following dates falls on a weekend, the deadline is extended until 5:00 pm on the next business day.
- Undergraduate deadline for Fall semester confirmation - May 1, 5:00 pm (Eastern Standard Time - GMT -5)
- Graduate deadline for Fall semester confirmation - April 15, 5:00 pm (Eastern Standard Time - GMT -5)
- Deadline for Spring semester confirmation - October 15, 5:00 pm (Eastern Standard Time - GMT -5)
CIM cannot guarantee enrollment space or availability of financial aid for anyone who submits a late confirmation. All the following items are due by the deadline (partial fulfillment will not suffice):
- A tuition deposit, as requested by the Admission Office;
- Signed Intent to Enroll and FERPA release forms that accompanies the letter of admission;
- Acceptance of scholarship/financial aid via the applicant's online NetPartner account;
- International applicants must additionally satisfy all the documentation requirements of the CIM Financial Aid Office.
Only by completing ALL requirements can an admitted student: 1) be assigned officially to the studio of a teacher, 2) be eligible to register for classes, 3) be assigned space in the CIM residence hall, and 4) receive the documents necessary to obtain a student visa or maintain student status.
Students enroll in the programs to which they have been admitted. Generally speaking, students are not permitted to change program before completing the program in which they are currently enrolled. In the most unusual circumstances, students may petition the Dean to switch from MM to PS.
Back to topLive Audition Information
Please check CIM's web site for audition dates. All live auditions are held in Cleveland, and there are no regional locations.
The online application provides an opportunity to state audition date preferences; please choose carefully! Pending availability, auditions are re-scheduled only upon receipt of a $30 re-scheduling fee, payable by credit card. If all available audition time has been taken on the first choice of date, CIM will attempt, on a space available basis, to schedule one of the alternate choices.
A live audition appointment includes an audition and admission examinations that are required of applicants to ALL programs, whether degree or non-degree. Therefore, applicants need to be available from 8:30 am until 5:00 pm. Be sure only to request dates when available for the full day and to make no travel arrangements until you receive from the Admission Office an official written confirmation of your appointment.
DMA applicants, please note: doctoral applicants will complete DMA Diagnostic Examinations from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm on the day following the scheduled audition.
Back to topAudition Day
Each applicant auditioning in Cleveland receives official written confirmation of appointment. Though the confirmation provides detailed information regarding audition day events, it does not include specific times for audition, warm up, or admission examinations; the final schedule is provided only upon arrival at CIM on audition day. It is not possible to reserve audition times in advance, to provide assigned times before arrival, or to alter individual times after receiving a schedule. All applicants in performance are provided one-half hour of private warm-up time immediately before their auditions; otherwise, practice rooms are reserved for CIM students.
Detailed visitor information, including a list of recommended hotels and travel directions, can be found at www.cim.edu/visit. Applicants must plan to be available until 5:00 pm, at which time all auditions and examinations conclude. Applicants flying out of Cleveland after their auditions should not plan return flights before 7:00 pm; this allows sufficient time for travel to the airport and for security screening. Requests for re-scheduling are subject to availability and there is a $30 fee, payable by credit card through the CIM Admission Office (phone 216.795.3143).
Back to topAdmission Examinations
On audition day, applicants are scheduled to complete the following admission examinations, as appropriate to the level of entrance; admitted students who do not meet expected entrance requirements must register for appropriate remedial course work. Sample tests are not available. Secondary piano placement testing is deferred until the first week of classes (except for conducting applicants). Undergraduate applicants who are interested in advanced placement, please note: though CIM does accept AP test results in many subject areas, it does not do so in the area of music theory. Instead, the results of CIM's admission examinations are used to determine advanced placement.
Testing for first-year undergraduate applicants includes the following:
- An evaluation of written knowledge of key signatures, intervals, triads, scales, and part writing. The part-writing example is brief and graduated in difficulty. Each applicant is expected to complete as much of the exercise as knowledge and ability permit.
- An ear training test that covers intervals, triads, and harmonic progressions. There is no sight singing testing on audition day. It is deferred until orientation (the week before classes begin) and includes melodies in treble and bass clefs.
Testing for persons wishing advanced placement consideration includes the following:
- An evaluation of written knowledge of key signatures, intervals, triads, scales, and part writing. The part-writing example is brief and graduated in difficulty. Each applicant is expected to complete as much of the exercise as knowledge and ability permit. The examination also includes sections pertaining to form and analysis and counterpoint.
- An ear training test that covers intervals, triads, and harmonic progressions. There is no sight singing testing on audition day. It is deferred until orientation (the week before classes begin) and includes melodies in treble, bass, alto, and tenor clefs. Keyboard testing, also conducted during orientation, includes harmonization of chorale and/or folksong melodies and realization of figured bass.
Testing for graduate and doctoral applicants will include the following:
- A written examination that includes part writing, form and analysis, and counterpoint.
- An ear training test that covers intervals, triads, and harmonic progressions that may include triad and seventh chord inversions, secondary dominants, secondary diminished seventh chords, borrowed chords, Neapolitan sixth chords, and all types of augmented sixth chords. There is no sight singing testing on audition day. It is deferred until orientation (the week before classes begin) and includes melodies in treble, bass, alto, and tenor clefs.
- In addition to the above audition day testing, doctoral applicants will complete DMA Diagnostic Examinations from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm on the day following the scheduled audition. Successful candidates must demonstrate outstanding knowledge and skills and are evaluated both by CIM and CWRU Music Department faculty. Audition and examination results help to shape the overall construction of an individual's program of study. The program may include deficiency course work, credit for which is not applicable toward fulfillment of degree requirements. Overall individual program requirements, including those courses that are applicable to the degree and deficiency courses that are not are determined in part by means of audition, admission examinations, and transcript evaluation.
Back to topAudition Repertoire
Required Video Recordings
CIM requires every applicant to upload recordings at the time of application submission (video is strongly preferred, though audio may be accepted). You will not be able to submit your application without recorded material. There is no upper time limit to the size of the recorded files submitted. Required repertoire, even for prescreening, must include everything specified for a live audition (See www.cim.edu/conservatory/admission/applying.php#top for repertoire requirements). Applications not meeting this requirement will not be processed and will be placed "On Hold".
Do not mail CDs or DVDs to CIM. They are not accepted. You must upload your videos with your CIM application at http://www.decisiondesk.com/clients/cimadmission/apply/flexform/1/. Should technical issues arise, simply click on the Help button on the left side of the screen. The Decision Desk staff will be pleased to assist. The following video formats are accepted: avi, m4v, mov, mp4, mpeg, mpg, ogg, vob, and wmv, and large file sizes can be accommodated.
Each piece of audition repertoire must be unedited and recorded separately (unless otherwise indicated in departmental repertoire requirements). Recordings must be produced with a single, fixed-focus camera (no zooming) that displays full-body view of applicant and instrument. Recordings may be produced on home-quality equipment;studio-quality production is not necessary.
Accompaniment is not required, except for voice applicants.
Video recordings are used by CIM for the following purposes:
- Any department may elect to prescreen; if your recording is selected for prescreening and you are approved for a live audition, your live audition repertoire may be different than that submitted on your video recording;
- Recordings are available to any CIM faculty member unable to be present on a live audition date; if one of your CIM teacher preferences is not present on your audition day, your recording will provide evaluative means for that teacher;
- Should you be unable to attend a scheduled live audition due to inclement weather, travel or medical emergency, your recording will become the primary means of evaluation if CIM is unable to re-schedule a live audition for you;
- After the conclusion of all auditions, recordings are available to faculty for re-evaluation.
In general, CIM's acceptance rate is higher for live auditions than recorded auditions. As a result, live auditions in Cleveland are strongly preferred, and are required for all applicants to the Artist Certificate, Artist Diploma, or Doctor of Musical Arts programs. There are no regional auditions.
Back to topAudio Recording
Admission is determined on the basis of a personal interview and admission examinations that are administered only in Cleveland. Applicants must be familiar with standard music literature of the Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary periods.
The audio recording program requires the submission of required video recordings demonstrating technical and musical accomplishment on an instrument or voice. These recordings must be submitted at the time of application and should present two (and only two) contrasting selections of the applicant's choice. Accompaniment is not required, except for voice applicants.
Back to topBassoon
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
Undergraduate
- Major and harmonic minor scales (not required on video recording)
- Milde Scale or Arpeggio etude
- Solo piece selected by the student
Graduate
- Major and harmonic minor scales (not required on video recording)
- A major concerto; e.g., Mozart, Hummel, or Weber
- Selected contrasting orchestral excerpts
Back to topCello/Cello Suzuki Pedagogy
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
To accommodate prescreening, applicants are strongly urged to submit applications well before the deadline of December 1.
The required audition repertoire must be played from memory:
- Two contrasting etudes of Franchomme, Piatti, or Popper
- Two contrasting movements from a Bach suite
- One movement of a standard concerto
For a DMA or Artist Diploma audition, the cello faculty selects from the following requirements:
- An entire Bach Suite
- Complete standard concerto
- 20th- or 21st-Century composition (memorization not required)
Back to topClarinet
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
Undergraduate
- All major and minor scales and arpeggios (not required on video recordings)
- Mozart, Clarinet Concerto (first movement)
- Solo passages from Rimsky-Korsakov, Capriccio Espagnol
- Mendelssohn, Scherzo from A Midsummer Night's Dream
- Solo piece selected by the student
Graduate
- Mozart, Clarinet Concerto (first movement)
- Solo passages from Rimsky-Korsakov, Capriccio Espagnol
- Mendelssohn, Scherzo from A Midsummer Night's Dream
- Solo piece selected by the student
- A major 20th- or 21st-Century solo work
Back to topCollaborative Piano
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
The required audition repertoire is as follows (items 1-6):
- Perform one solo piece of choice.
- Choose one sonata:
Beethoven
Sonata #5, Violin and Piano, Opus 24
Sonata #7, Violin and Piano, Opus 30, #2
Sonata #3, Cello and Piano, Opus 69
Brahms
Sonata for Violin and Piano, #2, Opus 100 in A major
Sonata for Violin and Piano, #3, Opus 108 in D minor
Sonata for Cello and Piano, #1, Opus 38 in E minor
Sonata for Cello and Piano, #2, Opus 99 in F major
Debussy
Sonata for Violin and Piano
Sonata for Cello and Piano
Franck
Sonata in A major
Fauré
Sonata in A major, Opus 13 - Choose one concerto reduction:
Tchaikovsky, Violin Concerto, Opus 35 in D major
Sibelius, Violin Concerto in D minor, Opus 47
Mozart, Violin Concerto, #5, K. 219 in A major
Elgar, Cello Concerto, Opus 85
Dvorak, Cello Concerto, Opus 104 in B minor - Choose one from the following three pieces:
Kreisler "Songs My Mother Taught Me"
Tambourin Chinois, Opus 3
Marche miniature Viennoise - Choose three contrasting arts songs to be played in the high/soprano key. A singer will be provided for live auditions in Cleveland. One of the three selections should be prepared both to be played and sung. This will not be a test of vocal talent but rather will give some sense of ability to do more than one thing at once (as in coaching), some sense of diction abilities and textual expression.
German
Brahms, "Botschaft"
Schubert, "An die Musik" or "Du bist die Ruh"
Schumann, Postlude of "Frauenlieben und Leben" or "Dichterliebe"
Strauss, "Ständchen"
Wolf, "Er ist's" or "Ich hab' in Penna"
French
Chausson, "Le colibri" or "Les papillons"
Debussy, Ariettes oubliées: "C'est l'extase" or "Il pleure dans mon coeur"
Duparc, "Chanson triste"
Fauré, "En sourdine"
Poulenc, Fiançailles pour rire: "Violon" or "Il vole"
English
Barber, Hermit Songs: "St. Ita's Vision", "The Monk and His Cat", or "The Desire for Hermitage"
Bridge, "Love Went A-Riding"
Copland, Twelve Poems of Emily Dickinson: "Nature, the gentlest mother", "Heart, we will forget him", or "Going to Heaven!" - Choose on aria:
Mozart, Countess's Recitative/Aria, "E Susanna...Dove Sono", from The Marriage of Figaro
Puccini, Musetta's Waltz, "Quando m'en vo", from La Boheme
Strauss, Composer's Aria, "Sein wir wieder gut", from Ariadne auf Naxos
Stravinsky, Ann Truelove's Aria, "No Word from Tom", from The Rake's Progress
Back to topComposition
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
To accommodate prescreening, applicants are strongly urged to submit applications well before the deadline of December 1. After preliminary score review, selected applicants are invited to Cleveland for an interview and for completion of required admission examinations. To qualify for admission, this live audition is necessary.
Applicants must forward 2-3 original compositions (hard copy scores only) to the following address. Also include a CD with any recordings of these compositions, if available.
Cleveland Institute of Music
Admission Office
11021 East Boulevard
Cleveland, OH 44106
Scores become the property of CIM and are not returned. Applicants for graduate programs (MM, PS, DMA) should include at least one work for large ensemble (chamber orchestra, full orchestra, or wind ensemble).
Additional supporting materials must be uploaded at the time of application to include the following:
- A chronological list of completed compositions (including date of composition, instrumentation, duration, and any performances)
- A short résumé showing musical activities and training
- Two video recordings (uploaded separately) demonstrating technical and musical accomplishment on an instrument or voice. These recordings should present two (and only two) contrasting selections of the applicant's choice. Accompaniment is not required, except in voice.
Back to topConcertmaster Academy
Applicants must submit applications with required video recordings well before the deadline of December 1. These prescreening recordings should include two contrasting selections (and only two selections) chosen by the applicant. Through CIM's partnership with DecisionDesk, the online application provides a simple method for uploading recordings. Only video is accepted, and accompaniment is not required either on video recordings or in live audition.
All selected for the required live audition in Cleveland perform with the following repertoire:
- Two contrasting movements from a Bach sonata or partita
- An entire standard concerto or concert piece of the applicant's choice
- Another solo of the applicant's choice
- Strauss, Don Juan (first page)
- Schumann, Symphony #2 - Scherzo
- Mozart, Symphony #39 - movements 1, 2, and 4
- Strauss, Ein Heldenleben
- Bach, St. Matthew Passion - Erbarme Dich
Back to topConducting (Orchestral)
The orchestral conducting program requires submission of required video recordings demonstrating technical and musical accomplishment on an instrument or voice. These recordings must be submitted at the time of application and should present two (and only two) contrasting selections of the applicant's choice. Each piece should be recorded separately, and accompaniment is not required, except for voice applicants. An additional and optional video may be submitted on which the applicant is conducting under rehearsal or performance conditions.
Ensembles perform for conducting auditions, under rehearsal conditions, and the following repertoire is required:
Mozart, Così fan Tutte, #11 to "Smanie implacabile"
Wagner, Siegfried Idyll
Tchaikovsky, Serenade for Strings, third movement.
On the scheduled audition date, each applicant must complete the following:
- an interview with the Director of the Orchestral Program
- all admission examinations
- a written test of orchestral repertoire, instruments, and techniques
- a piano proficiency examination; each applicant must perform a solo work of choice that best reflects ability and be prepared to do sightreading.
Back to topDouble Bass
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
Undergraduate
- Technical study such as Bille, Storch-Hrabe, or Simandl
- One movement of a Bach cello suite
- Two contrasting orchestral excerpts from the standard repertoire
Graduate
- An advanced technical study
- A work of Bach
- Concerto selected by the applicant
- Selected contrasting orchestral excerpts
Back to topEurhythmics
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
Admission is determined on the basis of a personal interview and admission examinations that are administered only in Cleveland. In addition, the following minimum requirements must be performed on the piano:
- All scales and arpeggios in three octaves (not required on video recording)
- Study from Duvernoy, Berens, or Heller
- J.S. Bach, one piece from Short Preludes and Fugues
- Sonatina movement by Clementi, Mozart, Haydn, or Beethoven
Back to topFlute
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
To accommodate prescreening, applicants are strongly urged to submit applications well before the deadline of December 1.
Undergraduate
- All major and harmonic minor scales and arpeggios in two octaves (not required on video recording)
- Three contrasting pieces or movements of pieces, one may be an etude
Graduate
- All major and harmonic minor scales and arpeggios in two octaves (not required on video recording)
- Three contrasting pieces or movements of pieces, one may be an etude
- Three contrasting orchestral excerpts
Back to topGuitar (Classical)
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
To accommodate prescreening, applicants are strongly urged to submit applications well before the deadline of December 1.
Undergraduate
- Three pieces of contrasting style - the repertoire chosen must include a slow selection as well as one that demonstrates the applicant's upper level technical ability.
- Major and minor scales, arpeggios, slur studies, and sightreading may be requested (not required on video recording).
Graduate
- Three pieces of contrasting style, all of which must be substantial works or movements from substantial works - the repertoire chosen must include a slow selection as well as one that demonstrates the applicant's upper level of technical ability.
- Major and minor scales, arpeggios, slur studies, and sightreading may be requested (not required on video recording).
Back to topHarp
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
The required audition repertoire is as follows:
- Two solo works of contrasting style (preferably memorized)
- Level III Warm-Up from On Playing the Harp by Yolanda Kondonassis
(published by Carl Fischer) - One orchestral excerpt of the applicant's choice
Back to topHarpsichord
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
Undergraduate
(application video recordings may be performed on the harpsichord or piano)
- All major and minor scales and arpeggios in three octaves (not required on video recording)
- A work by Bach (at least 3 movements if a suite)
- A sonata by Scarlatti
- One movement of a sonata by C.P.E. Bach, Haydn, or Mozart
Graduate
- A substantial work by Bach (complete)
- A sonata by Scarlatti or Soler
- A toccata, tombeau, or unmeasured prelude from the 17th Century
- A suite by Couperin, Rameau, Duphly, or the equivalent
Back to topHorn
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
Undergraduate
- Major and minor scales and arpeggios (not required on recorded auditions)
- Etude by Kopprasch or the equivalent
- Solo or concerto selected by the student
- Selected contrasting orchestral excerpts
Graduate
- Solo or concerto selected by the student
- Advanced etude (Gallay, Kling, or Maxime-Alphonse)
- Selected contrasting orchestral excerpts
Back to topOboe
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
- Etude by Barret or Ferling
- Baroque or Classical work
- 20th or 21st Century work
Back to topOrgan
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
- A work of Bach
- A 19th Century work
- A 20th or 21st Century work
Back to topPiano
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
To accommodate prescreening, applicants are strongly urged to submit applications well before the deadline of December 1.
The audition repertoire requirements are as follows:
- Undergraduate
The applicant must include three memorized works of contrasting styles, one of which should be a movement of a Classical sonata that may include Schubert. The repertoire performed live for the piano faculty need not be the same as that submitted on recording. - Graduate
The applicant must include three memorized works of contrasting styles, one of which should be a complete Classical sonata that may include Schubert. The repertoire performed live for the piano faculty need not be the same as that submitted on recording.
Back to topTimpani & Percussion
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
Be sure to adhere carefully to the following procedures with your video recording; otherwise, it will be disqualified.
- The applicant should clearly say his or her full name at the beginning of the recording and must remain on camera at all times.
- Instruments may be set up in any preferred manner.
- The entire repertoire list must be performed as one unedited take, without stopping or pausing the recording. Edited recordings will be disqualified.
- The recording must be produced with a single, fixed-focus camera (no zooming) that displays a full-body view of the applicant at all times as well as the applicant's instruments. For Percussion/Timpani auditions, the camera's position may be adjusted from instrument to instrument, so long as the recording is continuous and the applicant remains on camera. The applicant may also take a short amount of time between instruments and excerpts, so long as all the above procedures are observed.
The required audition repertoire is as follows:
Undergraduate
- Snare Drum: Demonstrate advanced skills by performing rolls, rudiments and/or other technical aspects of snare drumming in two contrasting etudes from advanced sources; e.g., Delécluse, Peters, Goldenberg, Wilcoxin, or Pratt. The performance of orchestral excerpts is optional for undergraduate applicants.
- Keyboard Percussion: Show evidence of advanced technical and musical skills by performing at least two contrasting movements from one or more concerti or solo works; e.g. Stout: Mexican Dances; Bach: Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin; Creston: Concertino for Marimba; or works by Abe, Burritt, Smadbeck, etc. The performance of orchestral excerpts is optional for undergraduate applicants. Applicants may be asked to demonstrate advanced technical skills by performing scales, arpeggios, and/or other technical exercises.
- Timpani: Demonstrate skills in performance of rolls and single strokes. Perform at least one etude or solo for three or four timpani, showing musicianship and aptitude. Show knowledge of intervals, pitch recognition and tuning ability. Perform at least one standard Classical timpani part (Beethoven or Mozart).
- Sightreading may be requested in any segment of the audition.
All students study both percussion and timpani. Study during the third and fourth years is customarily in the major field of concentration, as determined by the department in consultation with the student. However, with the agreement of the department, in consultation with the student, a student may continue to study both percussion and timpani during the third and fourth years of the undergraduate program.
Graduate
Customarily students confine their studies to one field of concentration (either Percussion or Timpani). However, with agreement of the department, in consultation with the student, it is possible to study both Percussion and Timpani at the graduate level. To qualify for study in two fields of concentration, applicants must demonstrate musical and technical mastery by performing the audition requirements applicable to each major area of concentration.
Percussion
- Five contrasting orchestral excerpts each for snare drum, xylophone, and glockenspiel
- One advanced orchestral excerpt for vibraphone, tambourine, cymbals, and triangle may be heard as time permits
- An advanced keyboard solo suitable for a senior recital
- An advanced snare drum etude or solo
- Show basic technical and eartraining skills on timpani
- Sightreading may be requested in any segment of the audition.
Timpani
- Demonstrate timpani skills in performance of rolls and single strokes. Show evidence of a good ear, knowledge of intervals, and tuning ability.
- Perform standard timpani repertoire and etudes demonstrating facility and musicianship.
- Show evidence of basic technical knowledge of snare drum and keyboard percussion; perform one study each on snare drum and xylophone or marimba.
- Sightreading may be requested in any segment of the audition.
Back to topTrombone and Bass Trombone
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
Undergraduate
- All major and minor scales and arpeggios (not required on recorded auditions)
- 2 contrasting technical studies, lyrical and technical, from Blazhevich or Bordogni
- Demonstrate knowledge of tenor and alto clefs
- Solo selected by the student
- Contrasting orchestral excerpts such as: Mozart, Requiem; Strauss, Till Eulenspiegel; Hindemith, Symphonic Metamorphosis; Wagner, Lohengrin; Mahler, Symphony #3
- Sightreading (not required on recorded auditions)
Graduate
- 2 contrasting technical studies, lyrical and technical, from Bitsch, Masson, Bozza or the equivalent
- Solo selected by the student, demonstrating advanced musicality and technique
- Selected contrasting orchestral excerpts such as: Ravel, Bolero; Mahler, Symphony #3; Wagner, Ride of the Walkyries; Rossini, William Tell; Strauss, Till Eulenspiegel; Bruckner, Symphony #7
- Sightreading (not required on recorded auditions)
Back to topTrumpet
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
Undergraduate
- Two etudes of contrasting style from Charlier, Brandt, Characteristic Study from Arban, or the equivalent
- Concerto or solo piece selected by the student
- Orchestral passages from standard repertoire optional
Graduate
- Two etudes of contrasting style from Charlier, Brandt, Bitsch, Smith-Top Tones, Characteristic Study from Arban, or the equivalent
- Two concerto or solo pieces of contrasting style selected by the student
- Orchestral passages from standard repertoire
Back to topTuba
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
Undergraduate
- Major and minor scales and arpeggios (not required on recorded auditions)
- Two contrasting etudes
- Solo selected by the student
- Orchestral excerpts
- Sightreading (not required on recorded auditions)
Graduate
- Major and minor scales and arpeggios (not required on recorded auditions)
- Concerto selected by the student
- Two contrasting etudes
- Orchestral excerpts
- Solo demonstrating contemporary techniques
- Sightreading (not required on recorded auditions)
Back to topViola
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
Undergraduate
(must be played from memory)
- All major and minor scales in three octaves (for recorded auditions, play one scale slurring six and another scale with a spiccato stroke)
- Two contrasting movements from a Bach sonata, suite, or an equivalent solo work
- One movement from a standard viola concerto
Graduate
(must be played from memory)
- All major and minor scales in three octaves (for recorded auditions, play one scale slurring six and another scale with a spiccato stroke)
- Two contrasting movements from a Bach sonata, suite, or an equivalent solo work
- A movement from a sonata or other short piece for viola
- One movement from a standard viola concerto
Back to topViolin/Violin Suzuki Pedagogy
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
To accommodate prescreening, applicants are strongly urged to submit applications well before the deadline of December 1.
Undergraduate
(must be played from memory)
- All major and minor scales/arpeggios in three octaves (not required on video recording)
- Two etudes of Rode, Dont, Kreutzer, Gavinies, or the equivalent (Two Paganini Caprices may serve in substitution for the two etudes.)
- Two contrasting movements from a Bach sonata or partita (Ciaccona from Bach's Second Partita may be used as the equivalent.)
- One movement from a standard concerto
Graduate
(must be played from memory)
- Two contrasting movements from a Bach sonata or partita (Ciaccona from Bach's Second Partita may be used as the equivalent.)
- An entire standard concerto or concert piece of the applicant's choice
- Other solo of the applicant's choice
- Scales, arpeggios, and thirds may be requested (not required on recorded auditions)
For an Artist Diploma or DMA audition, the violin faculty selects from the following requirements:
- An entire sonata or partita for violin solo by Bach
- A first movement with cadenza of a Mozart violin concerto
- Two Paganini caprices or a substantial virtuoso piece: Ravel Tzigane, St. Saëns Rondo Capriccioso, Ysaÿe Ballade, Sarasate Carmen Fantasy (or another piece of the candidate's choice as approved by the head of the violin department)
- A complete Romantic violin concerto with appropriate cadenzas (Beethoven Concerto also acceptable)
Back to topVoice
Read carefully the CIM requirement for submission of required video recordings.
To accommodate prescreening, applicants are strongly urged to submit applications well before the deadline of December 1.
Accompaniment is required for voice applicants, both on video recordings and in live auditions. CIM will provide an accompanist for live auditions. The required audition repertoire is as follows:
Undergraduate
(must be performed from memory)
- Applicants must prepare from the classical vocal repertoire three selections -- one in Italian, one in English, and one in any language of choice.
- Each applicant performing live in Cleveland will be scheduled for 30 minutes of warm-up time immediately before the audition. At that time, the applicant will bring copies of the audition repertoire and meet with the accompanist.
Graduate
(must be performed from memory)
- Applicants must prepare four selections representing a variety of musical styles and periods in four languages (English, French, German, and Italian), one of which must be an operatic aria.
- Each applicant performing live in Cleveland will be scheduled or 30 minutes of warm-up time immediately before the audition. At that time, the applicant will bring copies of the audition repertoire and meet with the accompanist.
For DMA, Artist Diploma, or Professional Studies auditions:
Five selections in four languages (one each in English, French, German, and Italian) representing a variety of musical styles and periods; the fifth selection may be in any language of choice. Two of the five selections must be operatic arias.
Back to topAdmission
Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management
p. 216.795.3107
Office hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST Monday through Friday.
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Upcoming Events
-
SERGEI BABAYAN INTERNATIONAL PIANO ACADEMY
May 31, 2013, 6:00 pm
Mixon Hall
Final Concert
-
Lunch & Listen Recital
July 2, 2013, 12:30 pm
Mixon Hall
Presented by the Alumni Association
-
Lunch & Listen Recital
July 9, 2013, 12:30 pm
Mixon Hall
Presented by the Alumni Association

