There are three parts to the listening test:

i) Singing back short melodies

Your child will be asked to sing back two sets of four short melodic phrases, each played once. The key chord, keynote, and tempo will be indicated before the melody begins.

ii) Clapping short rhythms

Your child will be asked to clap back three short rhythms, each played once.

iii) Pitch-matching

Your child will be asked to sing back single notes, and both notes of a two-note chord. Single notes will be played once, chords will be played twice. There will be three single notes, and three two-note chords.

Practice tests are available further down this page.

Preparing for the filmed performance

What to play?

It helps us to see and hear your child perform as much music as possible. This may include multiple instruments/voice and numerous pieces or exercises, depending on what they have been working on. We are aware that in the current situation, children are unlikely to have been receiving regular vocal or instrumental tuition over the past weeks, and we understand that this may affect the choice of music chosen. Parents and children should not be concerned by this and should focus on performing what the child knows or has been working on, even if they are parts of pieces.

It would be helpful for your child to give a short introduction to themselves and to introduce what they are playing. This might be something similar to…

My name is ….and I am in Year …. I am going to play….

If it helps your child feel more comfortable, they might want to tell us a little about why they enjoy playing their instrument/singing; how long they have been playing/singing. This is optional.

How long should the performance be?

As mentioned previously, it is helpful for us to hear as much music as possible. We suggest performances of 3-5 minutes to allow us to observe your child’s musical potential.

Accompaniments

Should your child need an accompaniment for their performance, you may like to source a recording of accompaniment yourself, for e.g. from a teacher, or a suitable backing track from the Internet. Alternatively, please contact h.wallis@minster.notts.sch.uk with a copy of the piano accompaniment music, and we will endeavour to arrange a recording for you.

Filming the performance

Our priority is to see and hear your child’s performance at their most comfortable. In order for us to get the most out of the filmed performance there are some guidelines below

What if something goes wrong?

If your child makes a mistake, that is ok! You are welcome to record the audition again, but please remember we are looking for musical potential, and we are not necessarily expecting a polished or perfect performance. Mistakes often feel worse in the moment, so please encourage your child to continue playing until the end of the piece. We want them to enjoy performing and not feel worried or stressed by their filmed performance.

Sending the audition footage

There are many options for sending us your child’s filmed performance. Please do make sure it is clearly labelled with their full name and sent to music@minster.notts.sch.uk. Suggestions for sending larger files are found below.

• WeTransfer
• OneDrive
• Google Drive

We will acknowledge receipt of your filmed performance so you know it has arrived safely.

Auditioning to be a chorister

The audition process is the same for all children. If your child is applying for a place as a chorister, it is helpful for them to sing something which comfortably demonstrates their full vocal range.

Safeguarding

The safety of our students, staff and applicants is our priority. As such, any audition footage will be viewed only by the panel and appropriate Minster School administration staff. It will be stored on our secure staff drive and will only be viewed in relation to your child’s application. Please ensure the background for any filming is appropriate and there are no other members of the family in the audition footage, unless acting as an accompanist.