Scholarships

Music applicants must attend a Music audition as well as sitting the ACER Academic examination.

All applicants will be required to submit a video audition at the time of application for their first and second instrument (if applicable). The School receives a large number of applications and it is not possible to offer live audition to all applicants. Consequently the Head of Music will select candidates for live audition based on the completed application form and video audition. Live auditions are scheduled to take place on 9 and 16 February 2025 and shortlisted candidates will be notified. Those applicants not selected for a live audition will also be notified by email.

Auditions are available for any orchestral ensemble instrument (Brass, Percussion, Strings, Woodwind). Students wishing to audition on Piano or Guitar as their primary instrument need to also present a 2nd instrument that is from the Brass, Percussion, String or Woodwind of instruments (with around 18 months or more of experience and present this within the audition performance time limit). Students auditioning on an orchestral instrument as their primary instrument may choose to demonstrate a 2nd instrument but need to do so within the performance time limit listed below. Instruments other than orchestral instruments will be considered at the discretion of the Head of Music.

All successful music scholarship students will be expected to regularly participate in at least one Huntingtower instrumental ensemble and/or Choir.

Please ensure that your child has documented evidence that they attained the required level (according to the table below) of proficiency prior to the audition.

If shortlisted for a live audition:

• Extracts from two contrasting works should be presented – one fast piece and one slow piece, with each extract being about 3 minutes in duration. The extracts can be accompanied or unaccompanied. The candidates can present complete works if it conforms with the time limits. The candidates should be using the extracts to best demonstrate their musicality, dexterity, control, typical tone for the instrument, and a clear understanding of musical phrasing.
  
  Maximum performances time limit – 6 minutes. An additional 2 minutes will be used for a sight-reading test and a general discussion.
  
• Candidates need to provide their own accompanist. Backing tracks are only acceptable in the audition for non-melodic percussion instruments – the backing tracks should be brought into the audition on the candidates own device ready to plug into the PA system.
  

Further detailed information will be provided to shortlisted candidates.

How to Apply

Please follow and complete all steps below:

Step 1. All Scholarship candidates must complete the ACER online registration. You must complete the online form to officially register. Once you have completed your online registration, please save this form to lodge with your Portfolio documentation.

Step 2. Video Audition Application. The application process requires the submission of an instrumental performance video. Videos should be 2-3 minutes long and prepared with or without an accompaniment. Applicants are encouraged to showcase their technical performance skills and demonstrate 2 contrasting works (one fast piece and one slow piece) of their choosing. Videos should be unedited, and applications are asked to perform for the camera as they would to a live audience. Video auditions form part of the application process and are required to be submitted no later than 11:59pm on Friday 24 January 2025. Please complete the Music Video Audition form HERE.

Step 3. Email the electronic Scholarship Portfolio (requirements listed below) as soon as you have received the end of year school report. The portfolio should be emailed to scholarships@huntingtower.vic.edu.au prior to 11.59pm Friday 24 January 2025. Please include your ACER candidate ID and candidate name in the subject of the email. No late applications will be accepted.

2026 Live Music Auditions are scheduled for Sunday 9 & 16 February 2025 (Audition times will be advised as soon as possible after the scholarship applications have closed).