High school seniors who meet the criteria for admission to Kenyon College are welcome to submit applications for this competition. Those who want to be considered for music scholarships must submit their form by January 20. Candidates who are invited as finalists must appear for a live, on-campus audition/interview February 8-10, 2020. Students are not required to major in music but will be expected to take private lessons on their major instrument, participate in department ensembles each semester, and present a senior recital. Each scholarship is $15,000 per year and is renewable for four years as long as the student maintains an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher, meets the requirements for lessons and ensembles, and serves the needs of the department through exemplary musical leadership. Subsequent auditions will not be necessary to renew the scholarship. All first-year applicants are eligible, including Early Decision applicants. Transfer students are not eligible.
Applicants must submit recordings of two pieces for the scholarship. We strongly encourage students to choose two contrasting selections. Accompaniment from a piano or other instrument(s) is suggested but not required. Vocalists will be allowed to audition music from classical, musical theater, or popular genres. Instrumental jazz musicians should include recordings that include the original melody of the song as well as two to three choruses of improvisation. Jazz rhythm section players should demonstrate comping (piano, guitar) or basic groove (bass, drum) for two different styles. Students are encouraged to select works that demonstrate their highest level of technical skill and overall musicianship.
If you need any repertoire suggestions, please feel free to contact Donna Maloney in the Department of Music. She will connect you with the professor in your area of musical talent. You can reach her at 740-427-5197 or maloneyd@kenyon.edu. With questions regarding the uploading of materials, please contact Terri Huvler in the Office of Admissions at 740-427-5782 or huvler@kenyon.edu. With questions regarding the scholarship or the Common Application or Coalition Application, please contact Chris Renaud in the Office of Admissions at renaudc@kenyon.edu.
Students must complete the music scholarship form. All audition materials and the scholarship form must be uploaded to the Kenyon Admissions Portal. (Applicants will receive their username and password within two days after submission of the application for admission.)
Students performing on more than one instrument/voice should submit one portfolio upload for each instrument/voice.