Below are audition requirements for each of the VPA programs.
For help with Accept’d application, please go here.
DANCE PROGRAM AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
To be considered for the dance program, students must complete two items:
1. A physical audition consisting of a dance class taught by faculty from the Dance Department.
2. A completed online application through Accept’d which includes contact information for the student, contact information for recommenders (2), a digital copy of a most recent report card and statements about the student’s relationship to dance.
The Physical Audition
1. Students should wear appropriate dance attire that allows their body full range of movement.
2. The dance class or classes taken will highlight a variety of styles. One style might not be your preferred style of dance, however full effort and participation should be a priority.
3. Please bring appropriate hair supplies to keep the hair out of the face.
4. Please bring dance shoes if owned: ballet shoes and hip hop shoes.
5. No solo is required.
Audition Rubric
Candidates will be assessed based on the following criteria:
Physical Characteristics (body alignment, strength, endurance, flexibility, etc.)
Coordination & Sequencing of Movement Phrases
Replication of Correct Movement
Ability to Apply Corrections
Effort & Focus during Class
Ability to Work with Others
Willingness to Learn
Academic Promise (unweighted GPA of 2.5 or higher)
VISUAL ART PROGRAM APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
To be considered for the visual art program, students must complete five items:
1. A completed online application through Accept’d which includes contact information for the student, contact information for recommenders (2), a digital copy of a most recent report card, statements about the student’s relationship to visual art, and a physical interview.
2. Candidates must submit a portfolio of TEN EXAMPLES of their best work. The portfolio must include works based on observation (looking at something), watercolor, painting, and one or two 3-D pieces. Students may bring photographs of their 3-D work. Cartoon and anime drawings are not to be included. Images should be submitted only in the following formats: .jpg, .jpeg, .png, or .psd and should be no larger than 2 MG, no smaller than 1 MG.
3. Candidates must submit a written artist’s statement (a few paragraphs) describing why they believe the VPA program is the best placement for them, and why they believe art is an important aspect of our world.
4. The candidate must submit their most recent report card that offers a history of academic success.
5. The candidate must submit two (2) letters of recommendation from teachers or other mentors in the art field. Typically, one is completed by an academic teacher and the second by an arts teacher/mentor.
For more information, click on the Portfolio Information Guide.
Physical Audition Submission
The Audition consists of three artworks.
Drawing #1: Instructors will set up a still life consisting of 3 or 4 objects which vary in their shapes and heights. They will be nestled close together so there is overlap. This is a monochromatic value study using sketchbook drawing paper and only graphite pencil to arrange forms in space, shading values light to dark. Do not smudge.
Drawing #2: Instructors will make available media to create a conceptual drawing. Preferably in color, the drawing should be a thoughtful fantasy of recognizable forms from toys, animals or ideas with considerations for composition and design.
Sculpture #3: Instructors will set up a prompt “Something for the Garden” and students will create with available materials.
Physical Audition Rubric
The candidate will earn one of the following scores, based on the criteria described below.
4 – Exceptional
3 – Competent
2 – Needs Development
1 – Below Standards
Breadth – uses or attempts a variety of media and/or techniques
Observation – ability to observe and record shapes, lines, textures, values, and space in a work of art
Organization – ability to conceptualize and make judgments regarding the use of the entire picture plane
Interpretation – ability to utilize or attempt a style or technique that reflects or expresses a personal feeling or emotion associated with the subject matter
Craftsmanship – presentation of artwork that shows thoughtfulness, care, value, and permanence in its construction
Academic promise (unweighted GPA of 2.5 or higher)
FILM & ANIMATION PROGRAM APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
To be considered for the film & animation program, students must complete:
A completed online application through Accept’d which includes contact information for the student, contact information for recommenders (2), a digital copy of a most recent report card, statements about the student’s relationship to film & animation and an interview.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATES for the VPA Film & Animation Program will possess skills in areas such as composition, design, photography/videography, or creative writing, along with a technical aptitude for computers, recording equipment and cameras.
Students interested in applying for Animation should submit to their Accept’d application:
1. A portfolio of TEN PIECES of digital art AND/OR traditional art: specifically, drawing from life, one point perspective, 2D object drawing and figure drawing.
2. A short story of up to two pages.
3. A statement of intent- this is a brief statement that describes why you believe you are the ideal candidate for the Film & Animation program.
4. Contact information for two (2) letters of recommendation. Typically, one is completed by an academic teacher, and the second is completed by an arts teacher/mentor.
5. The most recent report card and transcript that offers a history of academic success.
Students interested in applying for Film should submit to their Accept’d application:
1. A completed short film. It should be conceived, shot, and edited solely by the student, and must be no longer than 10 minutes. It can be shot and edited on a smartphone.
2. A screenplay of up to three pages.
3. A statement of intent- this is a brief statement that describes why you believe you are the ideal candidate for the Film & Animation program.
4. Contact information for two (2) letters of recommendation. Typically, one is completed by an academic teacher, and the second is completed by an arts teacher/mentor.
5. The most recent report card and transcript that offers a history of academic success.
Students interested in applying for Writing/Editing should submit:
1. A screenplay of three to six pages with an additional page that explains what changes the student made to an earlier draft of the screenplay to improve it.
THE AUDITION
On the date of the audition, the candidate should expect the following:
– Film & Animation faculty will conduct an interview with the candidate to determine their artistic and technical experience, goals, and interests in the area that film and animation encompasses, as well as the portfolio review.
– Review of the candidates’ creative writing skills, grade reports and recommendation letters.
AUDITION RUBRIC
The candidate will earn the following scores on each of the criteria described below:
4-Exceptional
3-Competent
2-Needs Development
1-Below Standards
Breadth – uses or attempts a variety of media and/or techniques
Craftsmanship – presentation of artwork and/or writing that shows thoughtfulness, care and value in its construction.
Interview & Recommendation Letters
Academic Promise (unweighted GPA of 2.5 or higher)
MUSIC PROGRAM AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
To be considered for the music program, students must complete the following:
1. A completed online application through Accept’d which includes contact information for the student, contact information for recommenders (2), a digital copy of a most recent report card. Access Accept/d through BookerVPA.com/apply. Please note: all aspects of the VPA applications must be done online through Accept’d
2. A short and basic music theory test for placement
Choral Requirements
1. A piece of the students choosing that is at least two minutes and no longer than five. This piece must be in the style of pop, classical, musical theatre, or jazz. Please try to choose something that demonstrates your vocal technique and range.
2. A range check and pitch matching exercise that will be conducted by the instructor.
3. A sixteen measure sight reading excerpt on Solfege. Stepwise motion from Do to Do in the key of C.
4. An interview discussing your background as a musician and your prospects as a member of VPA.
Modern Band Requirements
1. On your audition day, we will hold an hour-long rehearsal/workshop using the following songs. Please plan on performing on one or more of the following instruments: Guitar, Bass, Keyboard, or Drums
2. Vocalists should prepare a THIRD song of their choice, along with an audition on one of the above instruments: The Best of You-The Foo Fighters (starting with C#) and Paint it Black-Rolling Stones (starting in A Minor).
3. Finally, all applicants will be required to stay after the audition for an interview discussing your background as a musician and your prospects as a member of VPA
Winds and Brass (Band) Requirements
1. Play a 16-measure excerpt from a piece of your choice
2. Sight Read an excerpt
3. Play F, Bb, Eb scales in concert pitch
Percussion Requirements
1. Play a 16-measure excerpt from a piece of your choice
2. Play scales on the xylophone (F, Bb, Eb)
3. Play an accelerated and decelerated double stroke roll on the snare drum
4. Sight Read an excerpt
String Orchestra Requirements
1. Play one or more scales of your choosing (one or more octaves)
2. Prepared solo piece(s) OR section(s) of larger ensemble pieces that display the performer’s skills and abilities (Piece may be memorized but not required)
3. Sight Reading – The student will be asked to sight read a short excerpt written for their respective instrument.
Guitar Requirements
1. Ability to read standard staff notation is expected, including basic fingerboard knowledge of the first position notes and chords
1. Performance of one study by Fernando Sor, Matteo Carcassi, or Leo Brouwer
3. Acrylic or other artificial fingernails are not permitted
Piano Requirements
1. One set of Scales and/or arpeggios of the following three sets: 1) C Major/a minor; 2) G Major/e minor; 3) F Major/d minor. Students may play hands separately or together for one octave or more, ascending and descending
2. Sight Reading: Play a short excerpt of a piece in an appropriate level chosen by the instructor
3. Repertoire: Perform one or two piece(s) of your choosing. The piece must be in classical style which exhibits student’s abilities and strengths
Audition Rubric
Candidates will be assessed based on the following criteria:
Fluency
Technique
Rhythmic Accuracy
Intonation
Style
Musicality (Expressiveness)
Academic Promise (unweighted GPA of 2.5 or higher)
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT & PRODUCTION DESIGN AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
To be considered for the Entertainment & Production Design program, students must complete the following:
1. A completed online application through Accept’d which includes contact information for student, contact information for recommenders (2) and a digital copy of a most recent report card.
2. An interview where students showcase and explain portfolio items.
3. The candidate must request a minimum of two (2) letters of recommendation from teachers or other mentors in the art field. Typically, one is completed by an academic teacher, and the second is completed by an arts teacher/mentor.
The Audition
Students should wear professional and appropriate audition/interview attire that allows for movement. No flip flops, excessive jewelry, short skirts, etc.
Students will read a passage aloud to assess reading skills.
Students should prepare a portfolio of related work. Examples of related work include, but not limited to, 2D and 3D art work, models or other 3D projects, photos of productions the candidate has worked on demonstrating lighting (LED tape or theatrical lighting), scenic projects (painting of sets, building flats or special projects, doors, windows, signage, etc.), prop or costume design, costumes or cosplays and sound projects (songs, sound editing, microphones).
Students will present their portfolio and explain each piece during the interview.
Students may be asked follow up questions to assess work ethic and understanding of material.
Audition Rubric
The candidate will earn one of the following scores, based on the criteria described below.
4 – Superior
3 – Excellent
2 – Competent
1 – Needs improvement
Portfolio items and presentation
Interpretation
Preparation
Interview
Recommendation letters
Academic promise (unweighted GPA of 2.5 or higher)
THEATRE LIVE AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
To be considered for the Theatre program, students must complete the following:
1. A physical audition consisting of a warm-up, monologue, song and interview; dance piece is optional.
2. A completed online application through Accept’d including student and parent contact information, contact information for recommenders (2) and a digital copy of a most recent report card/transcripts, letter of intent about student’s desire to pursue theatre and their goals, and headshot/resume, if available.
3. Student should wear professional audition/interview attire that allows for movement. No flip flops, excessive jewelry, short skirts, etc.
4. Student will participate in a warm-up with theatre exercises (i.e. Improv) and movement components.
5. Students will present a prepared and memorized monologue from a published source (60-90 seconds), including slate (Hi, my name is “Full Name”, and I will be doing a monologue from “Play Name” by “Name of Writer” as the character “Character Name”.), and a prepared song (60 seconds) with recorded accompaniment or a cappella (if no song is prepared, the theatre faculty will provide an option).
6. Student will interview with Theatre Faculty.
OPTIONAL: Dance piece/presentation of movement abilities (45-60 seconds); provide headshot/resume.
AUDITION RUBRIC
The candidate will earn one of the following scores on each of the criteria described below.
4 – Superior
3 – Excellent
2 – Competent
1 – Needs improvement
Stage presence
Interpretation of material
Audition & Interview preparation
Ability to work with others
Academic promise (unweighted GPA of 2.5 or higher)
For more information about any of our programs, please contact the following:
Nancy Wachendorf, VPA Administrative Assistant – Shadow Appointments, General VPA information
nancy.wachendorf@sarasotacountyschools.net (941) 355-2967 ext. 65211
Megan Kendzior, VPA Coordinator – General VPA and School information, school tours
megan.kendzior@sarasotacountyschools.net (941) 355-2967 ext. 65244
Courtney Smith, Dance Department Chair – Dance Department Information, audition information
Courtney.Smith@sarasotacountyschools.net (941) 355-2967 ext.65219
Steve Strenk, Visual Art Department Chair – Visual Art Department information, Audition information
steve.strenk@sarasotacountyschools.net (941) 355-2967 ext. 65228
Lori Burton, Film & Animation Department Chair – Film & Animation Department information, Audition information
lori.burton@sarasotacountyschools.net (941) 355-2967 ext. 65209
Sung Choe, Music Department – Music Department information, Audition information
sung.choe@sarasotacountyschools.net (941) 355-2967 ext. 65223
Caleb Carrier, Production & Design Department Chair – Department information, Audition information
caleb.carrier@sarasotacountyschools.net (941) 355-2967 ext. 65062
Sunny Smith, Theatre Department Chair – Theatre Department information, Audition information
sunny.smith@sarasotacountyschools.net (941) 355-2967 ext. 65225[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]