Auditions

Ready for a more in-depth Suzuki learning experience? If you’ve taken our Every Child Can! course, the next step is to submit an audition. Passing an audition will allow you to take instrument-specific courses, starting with Unit 1 (also called Book 1), which will give you direct tools for supporting students. Once you take Unit 1, you become eligible for a wide variety of enrichment courses, Teaching Strategies, Practicum, and Unit 2.

Please note that in 2026, as part of a pilot program, the SAA is highly encouraging, but not requiring, an audition for Unit 1 training in North America (please see the note below regarding Central and South America. Learn more about the pilot at this link.

The SAA team is here to support you as you prepare for the audition process – we want everyone to have a successful experience! We require auditions because we believe great musicianship is part of great music education. Read the audition process and requirements below, and reach out to us at [email protected] if you have any questions.

Please be aware that in Central and South America, the audition process may be different based on the event or course you are attending. Some events require that you pass auditions prior to the event, while others may require you to pass an audition at the end of the course. Check with your course host for details.

Audition Fees & Timeline

Audition Fee: $65, North America | $25, Central & South America

Submission Deadline: We encourage you to submit your audition 6-8 weeks in advance of your target course to allow ample time to receive your results and secure a spot. It can take 2-3 weeks to receive audition results. Some classes fill up several weeks in advance, while others may be canceled if the enrollment is low. We recommend that you join the waitlist for your desired course while you wait for your audition results.

You will receive an email notifying you of your audition results. You’ll also see the audition credential on your profile once you pass. If you don’t pass, you may be able to resubmit the audition based on the feedback you receive.

Audition Levels: You can submit any audition at one of the levels listed below:

  • A Basic audition is the prerequisite for Units 1-4. Please note that in 2026, as part of a pilot program, the SAA is highly encouraging, but not requiring, an audition for Unit 1 training. Learn more about the pilot at this link.
  • An Intermediate is the prerequisite for Units 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9 (depending on your instrument – see details at the Audition Repertoire link below)
  • A Comprehensive audition allows you to take all courses.

Repertoire: Read through the audition repertoire list here. If you wish to purchase Suzuki books or find audio downloads to help with your audition preparation, visit the Alfred website.

Our goal is to make the audition process supportive and inclusive while determining eligibility for course participation. We understand that as busy students, musicians, and artists, you may have other repertoire prepared. If you would like to request approval to submit an alternative piece for the Comprehensive Audition, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected].

The SAA will make reasonable accommodations for candidates in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Candidates should disclose their needs in the comments section of the application section. If you have any questions, please write to us at [email protected]

Audition Repertoire

Audition Submission Checklist

Plan ahead and submit your audition early. We recommend
6-8 weeks prior to the course start date. The deadline is 2 weeks prior to the course start date, but keep in mind that courses may fill by then or be canceled due to low enrollment.

  • Prepare for your audition
  • Determine which audition you need for the course you have in mind and prepare the correct repertoire.
  • Memorization is not required, with the exception of some voice pieces.
  • Accompaniment is not required, unless specifically stated on your instrument’s repertoire.
  • Practice, practice, practice! Make some practice recordings and evaluate yourself.
  • Find a quiet space with great lighting in advance of your recording.
  • Recording Guidelines
  • Record in a quiet place with great lighting.
  • When setting up the shot, show your full body with a clear view of your face and hands. If using a live accompanist, include them in the video.
  • Record each piece in one continuous take.
  • Be sure to review your video before you submit it. Higher quality and preparation are expected with each successive audition level.

How to submit your video audition

After reviewing your video, upload it to Youtube, Dropbox, or Google drive. Be sure the video is set to allow anyone with the link to view it. Put the link to your video/s in the audition form, available from the audition repertoire page.

Evaluation Criteria & Process

For your basic audition to be successful, it needs to meet the following criteria:

  • Correct notes are played
  • Tempo is appropriate
  • Musical pulse is steady
  • Rhythm is accurate
  • Basic articulations are demonstrated 
  • Tone is clear 

For your intermediate or comprehensive audition to be successful, it needs to meet the following criteria:

  • Posture is balanced.
  • Tone is focused, resonant, and clear
  •  Vibrato is used, when appropriate
  • Correct notes are played or sung with attention to intonation
  • Intonation and rhythm are accurate 
  • Tempo is appropriate  and helps convey the character of the piece
  • Notes/lyrics are articulated 
  • Musical pulse is steady and varies when appropriate
  • Dynamics vary appropriately
  • Interpretive choices are consistent
  • Performance conveys character of the piece 
  • Voice: Pronunciation is correct and consistent with the composition’s origin

Higher quality and preparation are expected with each successive audition level.

Auditions are reviewed by a panel of musicians outside of the SAA.