Now Accepting Individual Piano Students at Pasadena City College

Individual Piano Instruction (MUSC 009A) with Dr. Jocelyn Chang at Pasadena City College is primary for the Music Majors.  Students are expected to take MUSC 001A Music Theory, MUSC 002A Musicianship, and MUSC 004A Keyboard Skills as well. 

Here are the requirements for the MUSC 009A Individual Instruction Audition:

Classical Piano                                                                                                                                 

Your audition or video should include the following:

  • Play four-octave scales (ascending and descending) in the keys of E-flat major, B-flat major, C-sharp harmonic minor, and F-sharp harmonic minor. All four scales should be performed hands together in 16th notes at a metronome marking of quarter-note equals 110 b.p.m.

  • Perform the corresponding arpeggios, hands together, in the same keys in 16th notes at a metronome marking of quarter-note equals 72 b.p.m.

  • Perform, at a minimum, two solo piano pieces from the Grade level 1* list. Applicants should choose pieces demonstrating lyrical and technical accomplishment appropriate for acceptance to the individual piano lesson program. Pieces must be performed from memory.

Your audition or video should demonstrate the ability to:

  • Perform four-octave scales and arpeggios, ascending and descending, with accurate notes, consistent rhythm, and correct fingerings.

  • Perform pieces with accurate notes and rhythm, standard fingerings, appropriate tempo, dynamics, phrasing, articulation, pedaling, controlled tone production, balance between voices, and clear musical direction.

  • Sight-read at a steady tempo, including a range of rhythmic figures such as triplets, simple dotted rhythms, and syncopation. (in-person auditions only)

*Grade level material can be selected from the University of Texas, University Interscholastic League "Prescribed Music" list, which is available at: https://www.uiltexas.org/pml/.