University of Mount Union Piano Proficiency Requirements

The University of Mount Union (UMU) places a strong emphasis on musical achievement for students who wish to enroll in their Conservatory of Music or any program that requires a music major. A central part of this assessment is the piano proficiency requirement, which serves as both a benchmark of technical skill and an indicator of a student's readiness for advanced coursework. The following guide outlines the essential components, expectations, and resources related to piano proficiency at UMU.

Why Piano Proficiency Matters

Even if a students principal instrument is not piano, the university uses piano as a universal tool for testing fundamental musicianship. Mastery of the piano demonstrates a solid grasp of:

• Reading both treble and bass clefs simultaneously.
• Understanding harmonic relationships and chord progressions.
• Developing fine motor coordination, articulation, and dynamic control.
• Applying theoretical concepts such as scales, arpeggios, and modulation in a practical context.

These skills are crucial for any music major, as they directly support ensemble performance, composition, and pedagogical studies.

Overview of the Requirement

All applicants to UMUs music program must submit a piano proficiency test (PPT) score and, in most cases, an inperson audition. The PPT is structured in three levels (I, II, III), each with its own set of technical and repertoire expectations. The level at which a student applies determines the minimum score they must achieve. Typically, levelIII is required for undergraduate majors, while levelsI andII may be acceptable for nonmajor or preprofessional pathways.

Technical Requirements by Level

LevelI (Basic)

• Scales: Major and natural minor scales in C, G, D, A, and F (two octaves, hands together).
• Arpeggios: Major triads in the same keys, one octave, hands separate.
• Chord Identification: Ability to name and play basic major/minor chords in root position.
• Simple SightReading: Onepage excerpt using quarternote rhythms only.

LevelII (Intermediate)

• Scales: All major and natural minor scales (two octaves, hands together).
• Arpeggios & Broken Chords: Major and minor seventh arpeggios (two octaves).
• Technical Exercises: Selections from Hanon, Czerny, or similar collections (e.g., Hanon Op.5, Exercise120).
• SightReading: Twopage excerpt featuring eighthnote and simple dotted rhythms.
• Improvisation: Provide a short (8measure) harmonic progression and improvise a melody.

LevelIII (Advanced)

• Scales: All major, harmonic minor, melodic minor, and chromatic scales (two octaves, hands together).
• Arpeggios: Full seventh, diminished, and augmented arpeggios (two octaves).
• Technical Etudes: Selections from Liszts Technical Studies or Burgmller Op.100.
• SightReading: Threepage excerpt with syncopation, triplets, and grace notes.
• Repertoire Requirement: One piece of at least Grade6 difficulty (ABRSM/Trinity) or an equivalent work.
• Harmonic Analysis: Identify chord symbols and functional analysis for a short passage.

Audition Process

For most majors, the PPT scores are supplemented by an inperson audition. The audition typically lasts 810 minutes and includes:

1. Technical WarmUp Candidates demonstrate scales and arpeggios appropriate to their level.
2. Prepared Piece A solo work of Grade5 or higher, showcasing technical command, musicality, and stylistic awareness.
3. Excerpt from the Majors Instrumental Repertoire For performance majors, a brief excerpt (3045 seconds) from a standard work is required to illustrate ensemble readiness.
4. Q&A Faculty may ask about theory concepts, historical context, or interpretive choices.

All auditions are scheduled by the Conservatorys Admissions Office and are currently conducted on a rolling basis to accommodate outofstate applicants.

Repertoire Recommendations

The following list offers pieces that meet the LevelIII repertoire requirement and are commonly accepted by UMU faculty:

• F.Chopin Prelude in E Minor, Op.28 No.4
• L.Bach Invention No.1 in C Major, BWV787
• J.Brahms Intermezzo in A Major, Op.118 No.2
• D.Scarlatti Sonata K.141
• M.Wolf Romance in F Minor, Op.23

Students should select a work that highlights both technical facility and expressive depth. Whenever possible, choose a piece that aligns with the stylistic focus of their intended major (e.g., Baroque for an early music concentration).

Preparation Resources

UMU provides a range of resources to help prospective students meet the piano proficiency standards:

• Online Practice Library A curated selection of scale, arpeggio, and etude videos hosted on the universitys learning portal.
• Private Lessons Discounted hourly lessons with UMU faculty or approved local teachers.
• Workshops Twoday intensive workshops held each summer that cover sightreading, improvisation, and exam preparation.
• Peer Study Groups Studentrun groups that meet weekly for collaborative practice and mock auditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a piano major to meet the requirement?

No. The piano proficiency requirement applies to all music majors, including voice, orchestral instruments, composition, and music education. The level of proficiency required varies with the intended majors depth of study.

Can I submit a video instead of an inperson audition?

During pandemicrelated restrictions, the Conservatory allowed video submissions. As of the 2026 academic year, inperson auditions are the default, though limited video alternatives remain for applicants who cannot travel for genuine reasons.

What if I fail the PPT on my first attempt?

Students may retake the PPT up to three times within a single admission cycle. Each retake must be scheduled at least two weeks after the previous attempt, providing ample time for focused preparation.

Is the PPT score weighted against other admission criteria?

Yes. The PPT is one component of the holistic review process. Strong academic grades, a compelling personal statement, and prior performance experience can offset a marginally lower PPT score, but meeting the minimum level remains mandatory for admission.

Contact Information

For detailed guidance, prospective students should reach out directly to the Conservatory Admissions Office:

• Email: admissions@mountunion.edu
• Phone: (740) 5550123
• Office Hours: MondayFriday, 9:00am 5:00pm

Additional information, including downloadable PPT forms and audition scheduling portals, can be accessed on the universitys official website under the Conservatory of Music page.

*All guidelines are current as of the 2026 admissions cycle. Prospective students should verify any updates directly with the university before submitting applications.*