<p>While it is true that no audition-only program is a guaranteed admit, there is such variability between audition programs as to make equating them, beyond the fact that they require an audition, impossible. Some audition only programs require a pre-screen, while most don’t, even on the same instrument. The pre-screen programs are usually going to be the more difficult admit, because there is another screening tool. </p>
<p>Similarly, if one looks at the required audition repertoire, it varies considerably from program to program. For example, on piano, some schools will first require a prescreen and then offer an offer of audition. Then, they still might require five audition pieces, all memorized without use of music. Other programs require three pieces of repertoire only, and music is allowed for one or even two. Some don’t specify which periods or genres of music they require, and simply ask for students to prepare two pieces in “contrasting styles”, with nothing memorized. So, while all three of these programs might be “audition-only” programs, they vary considerably in the caliber of students who will both apply and be admitted. There will be students accepted to the last program mentioned who might not have made it through the pre-screen on the first.</p>