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Admission requirements CaSA Guitar

Repertoire to Be Performed 

Candidates must prepare the following pieces. During the audition, the committee will select which pieces you will play: 

  • Brazilian:  

  • Dindi (A.C. Jobim)  

  • Manhã de Carnaval (L. Bonfá) 

  • Cuban:  

  • La Tarde (Sindo Garay)  

  • Suavecito (Ignacio Piñeiro) 

 

The repertoire must be performed with proper phrasing, rhythmic accuracy, and stylistic authenticity. 

 

Technical & Stylistic Requirements 

Candidates will be requested to demonstrate the following: 

  • Major and minor scales over two octaves 

  • Scale-related arpeggios over triads and 7th chords 

  • II-V-I and IV-V-I progressions in both major and minor keys 

  • Bossa Nova Chords – Play the chords (including extensions) of a given bossa nova piece 

  • Samba & Baião – Perform authentic rhythm guitar patterns (PDF with examples provided) 

  • Brazilian Percussion Rhythms – Sing/clap rhythms such as samba, partido alto, and baião 

  • Afro-Cuban Rhythms – Perform patterns for Bolero, Guajira, and Son Cubano 

  • Tumbao & Clave – Play a tumbao in clave 3-2 and 2-3, as well as recognize and clap the clave within a given piece 

  • Repeat a melody (on your instrument) which is played to you  

  • Name intervals, triads and 7th-chords  

  • Optional: Candidates may also perform on cavaquinho and/or tres if applicable 

 

Playing Together 

Candidates are expected to perform with a backing track if possible. 

  • The repertoire must include one Afro-Caribbean and one Brazilian piece. 

  • Candidates will prepare three ensemble pieces, of which two will be chosen by the committee during the audition. 

 

Improvisation 

Candidates must perform a single-line solo over at least one of the pieces from their repertoire, demonstrating improvisational skills within the genre. 
 

What we grade:   

  • Musical Accuracy & Expression – Candidates must demonstrate accuracy in pitch, rhythm, and articulation while conveying artistic expression and stylistic awareness.  

  • Timing, Groove & Pulse – A solid sense of timing, groove, and rhythmic precision is essential. Candidates must be able to feel and maintain the direction of the groove, including the ability to play ‘in clave’ where applicable.  

  • Technical Control & Instrumental/Vocal Proficiency – Assessment of fluency, control, tone quality, and dynamic range appropriate to the instrument or voice.  

  • Aural Awareness & Musical Sensitivity – Ability to listen, respond, and interact musically, whether in solo or ensemble contexts, with an understanding of phrasing, articulation, and balance. Accurately interpret and perform a short, notated or aural excerpt with rhythmic and pitch accuracy.  

  • Stylistic Interpretation & Improvisation – Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of the stylistic nuances of their chosen repertoire and, where relevant, showcase improvisational skills rooted in the tradition.  

  • Communication & Artistic Presence – Beyond technical ability, we assess the candidate’s ability to engage with the music and convey emotion.  

 
CaSA Music Theory 
Part of your audition also consists of CaSA Music Theory 

 
 

Interview  
 
During the interview we will look at the following aspects:  

  • General motivation and level of English.  

  • Commitment to Studies & Professional Growth  

  • Ability to Articulate Goals & Perspectives  

  • Awareness of the Codarts Learning environment