I know these get annoying, but I need some advice.

[powellmacaque]

So I am a potentially converted electric bass guitar player who is hoping to get into his college's music department. I attend the University of West Florida, which has a relatively small music department, but I really enjoy the professors there. I did not originally intend to major or even minor in music, hence my current dilemma.

Most of my musical career I have played in various jazz, rock, blues, and other ensembles, and I attempted to join my high school's orchestra, but it was dissolved after one semester. I have quite a bit of music theory knowledge, but the problem is reading.

I would have to prepare a try-out for April 18th in order to be considered for the fall semester. By prepare, I mean find two pieces with accompaniment, find a bass, find an instructor, and become "college level" all within this time. Keep in mind I would consider myself an advanced bass guitarist.

I know theory, I passed Freshman Theory I with a B+, and I have been playing Bass Guitar for almost six years. Is this an impossible task?

I should also note that while my audition into the department will be based upon classical music, I have a feeling I will enroll in the Jazz Studies program.

All advice, both positive and negative, is appreciated.

[M.Wrenn]

finding pieces shouldnt be too difficult, most college music departments will have lists of criteria for audition pieces in order to narrow down the choices...as for a bass just go find a bass you like for a decent price and if you need to swap the pickups for some higher quality ones if the sound is sub par...often times profesors will be available for instruction but if they are unavailable ask around town or look in local music stores and you should be able to find an insructor...as for becoming college level, just practice like crazy...
this is for electric bass right?
because otherwise with arco this will be a much greater feat than expected...

[powellmacaque]

Well my music department's website doesn't really specify what bass they want. They just have umbrella criteria for "string instruments".

I'm actually not too sure if electric bass is even accepted at my school.

I played a limited amount of upright bass in my high school's orchestra (I played German Bow, not sure if that helps my chances) so I have a grasp of the various arco techniques.

[simandlesque]

I would contact the teacher. S/He will give you exactly what s/he wants or would normally expect, and you can get lessons and such before the audition.

The teacher is the biggest factor in deciding whether or not you will be accepted into a program, so familiarity is a good idea.

...and practice hard, with guidance.

Good luck!

RJ

[powellmacaque]

Thanks guys!

I contacted the head of the school of music, and he said that for Jazz Studies I could audition on bass guitar, but I would have to play both bass guitar and upright to complete my degree, which gives me more time to hone my skills. I could definitely master a piece easier on bass guitar than upright at the moment. I do however plan on getting lessons and an upright. Any beginner and audition advice would be appreciated!

Thanks for all the support!