Audition for Introductions

Soloists, duos, small ensembles and large ensembles are all welcome to audition for Introductions. If your ensemble is too big to perform in WFMT's performance studio, we'll come to you. Please follow the instructions below carefully so we can process your application efficiently. Unfortunately, we cannot accept auditions online.

Deadline:
-Introductions airs year-round and therefore applications are accepted at any time. Each application is screened individually; therefore, it may take up to three months to be notified of the status of your application. However, we make every effort to notify applicants sooner. We do our best to screen graduating seniors more quickly, but please don’t wait until the last minute to send your audition.

Eligibility:
-Classical instrumentalists or vocalists age 19 or younger and not yet enrolled full-time at a conservatory or college are welcome to apply. Musicians must live within range of the WFMT FM signal (including Northwestern Indiana, Southwestern Michigan, and Southeastern Wisconsin). Students accepted at a university, college or conservatory but who have not yet commenced classes are still considered pre-college.
-Bands, Orchestras, Choruses and small ensembles are welcome to apply if a majority of the musicians fit the above criteria.

How to apply:
1) Print out, complete and submit either the soloist or ensemble application (Adobe Acrobat Reader required):

•Soloist Application (.pdf)
•Ensemble Application(.pdf)

2) Submit an audition CD*:

a) Choose at least two selections to submit: Your selections will ideally be from pieces you propose to perform on air, but this is not necessary (if selected, you will work with the producer to determine the final program). Selections should total at least 10 minutes. A movement of a longer work may be considered a selection. You may omit repeats and include cuts. You may include a list of additional performance-ready repertoire with timings. Teachers or other adults may accompany soloists. Although we prefer auditions that were recorded specifically for Introductions, we will accept previously recorded CDs as long as they have been recorded within the current or previous school year and are not digitally enhanced.

b) Record your selections and burn them onto a CD. Cassette tapes and DVDs will also be accepted, but CDs are preferred. Auditions that have been enhanced or edited, digitally or otherwise, are not acceptable and will be immediately disqualified.

c) CDs and cases clearly marked: Please include name or ensemble name and an email address on the actual CD and written on the CD case.

d) Optional: Photographs of applicants, extra printed materials, and anything else that would help us get to know you or your ensemble better.

*Application materials will not be returned and become property of WFMT. Please do not send us your only copy of anything.

Send materials in one package to:

Introductions
WFMT
5400 N. St. Louis Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625

Frequently Asked Questions:

Will I be paid to perform on WFMT?
Introductions is an educational program and therefore musicians participate on a voluntary basis. WFMT can assist with accompanist expenses when there is demonstrated need.

How are the participants selected?
Participants are chosen based on their musical ability in consultation with music professionals. All decisions are final.

I was not invited to perform on Introductions or I just performed on Introductions and I would like to perform again. Can I re-apply?

Soloists and ensembles may send one audition every year, even if you’ve sent an application in the past. Because we try to feature a wide range of performers, repeated appearances on Introductions are unlikely.