How to Apply
- Select Early Decision, Early Action 1, or Regular Decision as your application round. Early Action 2 is not available for Conservatory degrees.
- Complete all general application requirements.
- The required teacher recommendation must come from a private lesson teacher, general music teacher, or an ensemble director and should speak to your musical abilities. You may request additional letters from references that can speak to your academic abilities, if desired.
- You may submit an optional music résumé detailing your experience, achievements, or training. You may upload your music résumé with your application for admission or through your application status portal after you have submitted your application.
- Register for and complete an audition. You may choose to audition on campus or by video recording. Explore which audition mode is right for you below.
- For on campus auditions only: Students who audition on campus and are subsequently admitted to the Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Musical Arts, or Dual Degree will receive the Con Brio Award, a one-time $500 award. Inspired by the musical term con brio—meaning “with spirit” or “with brilliance”—the name also plays on “Con,” short for Conservatory, celebrating both the artistry and energy students bring to their live audition and the vibrant Conservatory community they’re joining.
- For recorded auditions only: In addition to the required repertoire, please record a short video introducing yourself to the Conservatory faculty. We’d love to hear about who you are, not just as a musician, but as a person. Speak naturally. This doesn’t need to be formal or polished. Feel free to get creative or include specific examples that show us how you think, what excites you, or what matters most to you as an artist and individual. In your video, please address the following:
- What draws you to study music at the Lawrence Conservatory?
- What do you love most about playing your instrument or singing, and where do you hope the study of music takes you in the next 10 years?
- What qualities, musical and otherwise, would you bring to our Conservatory community?
Audition Procedures
You may choose to audition in-person or by self-recorded video on or by the dates associated with your application round. All options are considered equally.
Audition registration is required regardless of audition mode (in-person or video). Access to register will be provided after you apply to Lawrence University.
An audition is required for:
- Bachelor of Music (B.Mus.)
- Bachelor of Musical Arts (B.M.A.)
- Dual Degree (B.A./B.Mus.)
An audition is not required for:
- Bachelor of Arts in Music (B.A.)
Choose the Audition Mode That’s Right for You
At Lawrence Conservatory, you have the flexibility to choose the audition format that works best for you. Whether you prefer the energy and connection of a live, on-campus audition or the convenience and control of a recorded video submission, both options give you the opportunity to showcase your musicianship and join our vibrant community.
On-Campus: Visiting Lawrence for your Conservatory audition is more than just a performance—it's an opportunity to experience the place where your musical journey could truly begin.
Why attend an on-campus audition?
- Connect with Faculty
- Meet the professors who could become your mentors. An in-person visit lets you build meaningful connections and get a feel for the supportive, collaborative environment that defines the Conservatory.
- Discover Campus Life
- Explore our campus, from performance halls and practice spaces to dorms and dining. You’ll get a feel for the energy, creativity, and community that make Lawrence Conservatory a uniquely collaborative place to learn and grow.
- Let Your Music Speak
- A live audition allows your full artistry to shine.
- Ask Questions, Get Answers
- During your visit, you'll have access to Conservatory info sessions, student panels, and Q&As with faculty and staff. It’s a chance to learn more about our programs, ensembles, double-degree options, and what day-to-day life is really like here.
- Earn the Con Brio Award
- Students who audition on campus and are subsequently admitted to the Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Musical Arts, or Dual Degree program will receive the Con Brio Award—a one-time $500 award. Inspired by the musical term con brio, meaning “with spirit” or “with brilliance,” the award celebrates both the energy students bring to their live audition and the vibrant Conservatory community they’re joining. It’s also a playful nod to “Con,” short for Conservatory—honoring your artistry and enthusiasm from day one.
- Find Your Fit
- Lawrence is more than a Conservatory—it's a close-knit, supportive community of musicians and scholars. Being here in person can help you determine whether Lawrence feels like the right place to call home.
Video: We know that not everyone can make it to campus—and that shouldn’t stand in the way of your musical future. A recorded video audition gives you the flexibility to share your artistry on your own time, from wherever you are.
Why submit a recorded video audition?
- Showcase Your Best Performance
- With a recorded audition, you have the opportunity to carefully prepare and present your strongest work. Take the time you need to capture performances that truly reflect your musical voice and technical skill.
- Share Your Story, Your Way
- Your video is more than just a performance, it’s a window into who you are as a musician and as a person. Alongside your required repertoire, we ask that you submit a short introductory video to help us get to know you beyond the music.
- In your intro video, please speak naturally; this isn’t meant to be formal or overly polished. We encourage you to be yourself and include details or stories that highlight your personality, creativity, and perspective. Please address the following questions:
- What draws you to study music at the Lawrence Conservatory?
- What do you love most about playing your instrument or singing, and where do you hope the study of music takes you in the next 10 years?
- What qualities, musical and otherwise, would you bring to our Conservatory community?
- Stay on Schedule, Wherever You Are
- Submitting a video means you can meet audition deadlines without the need for travel. It’s a convenient option for students balancing school, rehearsals, and other responsibilities.
- Access the Same Opportunities
- Recorded auditions are reviewed with the same care and attention as live ones. Whether you visit campus or submit a video, all applicants are considered equally for admission and Conservatory scholarships.
- Join the Conservatory Community
- Wherever you are in the world, your audition is the first step toward joining a passionate, collaborative, and creative community at Lawrence Conservatory. Your journey can begin right where you are.
Audition Dates
| Application Round | Audition Mode | Audition Date | Registration Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Decision/Early Action 1 | Self-Recorded | Due Nov. 14, 2025 | Nov. 5, 2025 |
| Early Decision/Early Action 1 | On-Campus | Nov. 15, 2025 | Nov. 5, 2025 |
| Early Action 2 | Not Available | ||
| Regular Decision | Self-Recorded | Due Feb. 6, 2026 | Jan. 28, 2026 |
| Regular Decision | On-Campus 1 | Feb. 7, 2026 | Jan. 28, 2026 |
| Regular Decision | On-Campus 2 | Feb. 21, 2026 | Jan. 28, 2026 |
Audition Requirements
Audition repertoire requirements vary by degree and instrument. Composition applicants must also submit a portfolio.
Questions?
We're here for you! Feel free to reach out to us at musicadmissions@lawrence.edu and we'll be happy to help.
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