High School Auditions

Audition Information

How to Audition

  • All audition programs, including LaGuardia High School, offer virtual auditions. Virtual auditions are uploaded into MySchools during the application period. 
  • Some programs are also offering the option to do an audition in person. Scroll down to Audition Options by school to see the programs offering in-person auditions.
  • High schools evaluate virtual auditions and in-person auditions equally and consistently so students do not have an advantage or disadvantage auditioning one way or another.

Audition Components

  • All high schools - including LaGuardia - use the same audition components for each arts discipline (such as visual art or dance). This means that if you want to apply to, say, three dance programs, you would only need to submit one dance audition.
  • Students are be asked to prepare the same audition components whether they are auditioning in person or virtually.
  • Learn about the common components for each discipline in the sections that follow, or in MySchools.

Audition Options by School

Students may audition for any of these programs virtually by uploading their audition in their MySchools account. Some programs also offer the option to audition in-person, instead. Instructions and options provided by each school are as follows:

 SchoolAuditions How to Audition
Gramercy Arts High School (02M374)Virtual or in-person
Professional Performing Arts High School (02M408)Virtual only
Talent Unlimited High School (02M519)Virtual or in-person
Repertory Company High School for Theatre Arts (02M531)Virtual or in-person
The High School of Fashion Industries (02M600)Virtual or in-person
Art and Design High School (02M630)Virtual or in-person
Wadleigh Secondary School for the Performing & Visual Arts (03M415)Virtual or in-person
Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts (03M485)

Virtual only

Special Music School (03M859)Virtual or in-person
Theatre Arts Production Company School (10X225)Virtual or in-person
Fordham High School for the Arts (10X437)Virtual or in-person 
The Celia Cruz Bronx High School of Music (10X442)Virtual or in-person 
Dr. Susan S. McKinney Secondary School of the Arts (13K265)Virtual only
Brooklyn High School of the Arts (15K656)Virtual or in-person
Fort Hamilton High School (20K490)Virtual or in-person
Abraham Lincoln High School (21K410)Virtual or in-person
Edward R. Murrow High School (21K525)Virtual only
Newtown High School (24Q455)Virtual only
Queens Technical High School (24Q600)Virtual only
Benjamin N. Cardozo High School (26Q415)Virtual or in-person
Bayside High School (26Q495)Virtual or in-person
Forest Hills High School (28Q440)Virtual or in-person 
Hillcrest High School (28Q505)Virtual or in-person 
Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School (30Q501)Virtual only
Susan E. Wagner High School (31R460)Virtual or in-person

Common Components: Audition Requirements

The following audition requirements will be used for each discipline:

Architecture

Learn about this architectural design program and its audition requirements.

Program

  • Art and Design High School (02M630): Architectural Design (M60N)

You can log in to MySchools and use the online high school directory to find the school's website and read about the program.

Instructions

It is important that the schools to which you are applying get the clearest picture possible of your unique artistic abilities and talents. Remember, each school is looking for your potential, and that means how your present skills will grow and develop over the four years you will be spending at their school. 

Portfolio Upload

Photographs of 6 to 8 pieces of original artwork that includes the following (for additional support with this portfolio, you may view these visual arts portfolio resources):

  • Piece 1: A self-portrait, using a graphite drawing pencil and paper done from observation (from observation means you draw yourself by looking in a mirror). For additional support with a self-portrait, please see the short self-portrait tutorial produced by the High School of Art and Design. 
  • Piece 2: A still life of at least 3 items, using a graphite drawing pencil and paper done from observation (from observation means you draw objects placed before you on a surface in front of you). For additional support with a still life, please see the short still life tutorial produced by the High School of Art and Design.
  • Piece 3: Choose ONE of the following to prepare and upload.
    • Option 1: Figure Drawing - Use a graphite drawing pencil and paper. Pose a friend or a family member and draw the figure from observation. (From observation means, you draw a live person). If you do not have access to a friend or family member, see this visual arts portfolio resources or the short figure drawing tutorial produced by the High School of Art and Design.
      • Draw entire figure, filling the page: Do not cut off any parts of the body.
      • Draw figure with realistic proportions.
      • Try to use value or lines to draw the folds of clothing.
      • Include observed details and draw facial features.
      • Place figure in a simple setting so your figure is not "floating in space."
    • Option 2: Interior Room Drawing - Use a graphite drawing pencil and paper. Draw any room of your home done from observation. (From observation means, you draw looking at the interior of a room in your home or another location that you are physically in.) Proportions must be realistic.
      • Include a corner of the room that you may have a piece of furniture
      • If these are in your space include:
        • Details of a window and door (for example the molding)
        • Chair or sofa upholstery and drapes/curtains using value and line
      • Include observed details of the room (for example statues, vase of flowers)
  • Piece 4: Fantastical Sandwich - Use a graphite drawing pencil and paper to design a building or monument inspired by a fantastical sandwich. What would a sandwich look like as a structure? Feel free to use colored pencils if you wish…and have fun with it!
    • Incorporate architectural elements into the design.
    • Make sure to include a ground line and background, and fill the whole page.
    • Use your imagination and creativity – we want to see your wildest ideas.
    • Ask yourself:
      • What is the building’s purpose and who would visit it?
      • Where are the doors and windows?
      • Are there stairways?
  • Pieces 5-8: Add 1 to 4 additional pieces to your portfolio. You may select pieces that were created using any material in any form. They may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. Possible suggestions include:
    • Looking out your window, what do you see?
    • A detailed drawing of a building exterior
    • A close-up of a piece of furniture
    • A perspective drawing

Student Information

Select three pieces of artwork from your portfolio (Piece 1 and Piece 2 must be included). Upload a short video about the three uploaded pieces of original artwork. Discuss your choice of subject and materials, motivation, and influences. Your video should be no longer than three (3) minutes. If you are unable to create a video, you may upload a written explanation of up to 500 words (either is equally acceptable). 

Callbacks

The school may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements and/or for live on-demand tasks. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a callback. A callback does not mean acceptance or rejection.

Business Marketing and Visual Merchandising 

Learn about this business marketing and visual merchandising program and audition requirements. 

Program

  • High School of Fashion Industries (02M600): Business Marketing and Visual Merchandising (M68M)

You can log in to MySchools and use the online high school directory to find the school's website and read about the program.

Instructions

Prepare and upload the following two items: 

  • Write a 200-word essay describing your favorite store to shop.
  • Create a visual advertisement for this store.

Callbacks

The school may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements and/or for live on-demand tasks. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a callback. A callback does not mean acceptance or rejection.

Dance

Learn about dance program options and audition requirements. Watch this video to help you prepare for your dance audition.

Programs

  • Benjamin N. Cardozo High School (26Q415): Performing Dance program (Q16K)
  • Brooklyn High School of the Arts (15K656): Dance program (K47L)
  • Dr. Susan S. McKinney Secondary School of the Arts (13K265): Dance program (K42A)
  • Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and Performing Arts (03M485): Dance program (M80K)
  • Fordham High School for the Arts (10X437): general program (X51A)
  • Fort Hamilton High School (20K490): Joffrey Dance Academy program (K17J)
  • Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School (30Q501): Dance program (Q40M)
  • Professional Performing Arts High School (02M408): Dance program (M81N)
  • Talent Unlimited High School (02M519): Dance: Ballet and Modern program (M42L)
  • Theatre Arts Production Company School (TAPCo) (10X225): Dance program (X20R)
  • Susan E. Wagner High School (31R460): Dance program (R17K)
  • Wadleigh Secondary School for the Performing & Visual Arts (03M415): Dance program (M26D)

You can log in to MySchools and use the online high school directory to find each school's website and read about the programs that interest you.

Instructions

Prepare and submit two (2) recorded audition videos described below. For supports with creating your videos, you can view these tips. 

Video 1

Learn and record yourself performing one of the pre-recorded solos of Ballet, Jazz, Modern, or West African dance from the video library below. This dance video will be used to assess the following dance components: replication of dance steps, following direction, musicality, coordination, flexibility, expression. Record so that your full body and movement is shown. You can access the pre-recorded dances and music to the dances.

Video 2

Prepare and record a video of yourself that shares your passion for dance by performing a one-minute solo in any style or combination of styles of dance with which you feel most comfortable. This dance video is to assess the following dance components: creativity, musicality, coordination, flexibility, and expression. Record so that your full body and movement is shown. You may consider including the following: 

  • different levels (low, medium, and high)
  • different speeds of movement (slow and fast)
  • a jump
  • a pause
  • a turn
  • a balance

Callbacks

Schools may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements. Schools may also invite students for live on-demand tasks. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a call back. A call back does not mean acceptance or rejection.

Digital Arts and Graphic Design

Learn about digital arts and graphic design program options and audition requirements.

Programs

  • Art and Design High School (02M630): Digital Arts - Graphic Design, Animation and Digital Photography (M60R)
  • High School of Fashion Industries (02M600): Art, Photography, & Graphic Design (M68J)
  • Queens Technical High School (24Q600): Graphic Arts Program (Q68B)

You can log in to MySchools and use the online high school directory to find each school's website and read about the program.

Instructions

It is important that the schools to which you are applying get the clearest picture possible of your unique artistic abilities and talents. Remember, each school is looking for your potential, and that means how your present skills will grow and develop over the four years you will be spending at their school.

Portfolio Upload

Photographs of 4 to 8 pieces of original artwork that includes the following (for additional support with this portfolio, you may view these visual art portfolio resources): 

  • Piece 1: A self-portrait, using a graphite drawing pencil and paper done from observation (from observation means you draw yourself by looking in a mirror).
  • Piece 2: A still life of at least 3 items, using a graphite drawing pencil and paper done from observation (from observation means you draw objects placed before you on a surface in front of you). 
  • Piece 3: A figure drawing, using a graphite drawing pencil and paper. You may pose a friend or a family member in front of you. Draw the human figure from observation (from observation means you draw a live person). If you do not have access to a friend or family member, see the tutorial on figure drawing on this visual arts portfolio resources.
    • Make sure you draw the entire figure and fill the page: do not cut off parts of the head or feet.
    • Draw your figure with realistic proportions.
    • Try to use value or lines to draw the folds on the clothes.
    • Include any observed details and draw the facial features.
    • Include some background elements placing the figure in a simple setting to make sure your figure does not look like it is floating in space.
  • Pieces 4-7: Add 1 to 4 additional pieces to your portfolio. You may select pieces that were created using any material in any form. They may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. You may consider the following suggestions:
    • Re-design 5 characters from your favorite live action TV show or movie.
    • Create a poster design promoting an upcoming event or advertising a new product. Include imagery and text.
    • Create a book cover design of your favorite book: Include title and author.
    • Redesign a logo from one of your favorite companies.
  • Piece 8: If you are applying to Art and Design High School, submit this creative drawing based on the program to which you are applying. For applicants to the High School of Fashion Industries or Queens Technical High School, this is optional, but you are welcome to submit:
    • Animation: Fantastical Sandwich. Using pencil and paper, stage an interesting scene of a character eating a sandwich in 3 phases.
      • Ask yourself:
        • Who is my character and what are they like?
        • What type of sandwich is the character eating?
        • Why and where are they eating this sandwich?
      • Show us your wildest ideas. Be as creative as possible while pushing the story forward...and have fun with it!
    • Graphic Design: MTA Subway Poster Advertisement.  A new restaurant opened in your neighborhood. You must design an NYC subway poster promoting their special sandwich...the most (fill in the blank) sandwich in NYC! Your design must include: 
      • Image and brief description of the sandwich
      • Name of the restaurant
      • Name of the sandwich
      • Slogan for the sandwich stating why it is so special

Student Introduction

Select three pieces of artwork from your portfolio (Piece 1 and Piece 2 must be included). Upload a short video about the three uploaded pieces of original artwork. Discuss your choice of subject and materials, motivation, and influences. Your video should be no longer than three (3) minutes. If you are unable to create a video, you may upload a written explanation of up to 500 words (either is equally acceptable). 

Callbacks

Schools may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements. Schools also may invite students for live on-demand tasks. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a callback. A callback does not mean acceptance or rejection.

Fashion

Learn about fashion program options and audition requirements.

Programs

  • Programs Art and Design High School (02M630): Commercial Art and Design: Cartooning, Illustration and Fashion Design (M60P)
  • The High School of Fashion Industries (02M600): Fashion Design and Accessories (M68L)

You can log in to MySchools and use the online high school directory to find each school's website and read about the programs you are interested in.

Instructions

It is important that the schools to which you are applying get the clearest picture possible of your unique artistic abilities and talents. Remember, each school is looking for your potential, and that means how your present skills will grow and develop over the four years you will be spending at their school.

Portfolio Upload

Photographs of 4 to 8 pieces of original artwork that includes the following (for additional support with this portfolio, you may view these visual arts portfolio resources): 

  • Pieces 1-4: Original art pieces. You are encouraged to submit original fashion illustrations/designs, showing the front and back look of a garment. You may select pieces that were created using any material in any form. They may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional.
  • Pieces 5-8: If you are applying to Art and Design High School, prepare and submit these portfolio pieces in addition. (For applicants to the High School of Fashion Industries, this is optional, but you are welcome to submit):
    • Piece 5: A self-portrait, using a graphite drawing pencil and paper done from observation (from observation means you draw yourself by looking in a mirror).
    • Piece 6: A still life of at least 3 items, using a graphite drawing pencil and paper done from observation (from observation means you draw objects placed before you on a surface in front of you).
    • Piece 7: A figure drawing, using a graphite pencil and paper. You may pose a friend or a family member in front of you. Draw the human figure from observation (from observation means you draw a live person).
      • If you do not have access to a friend or family member, see the tutorial on figure drawing on this visual arts portfolio resources.
      • Make sure you draw the entire figure and fill the page: do not cut off parts of the head or feet.
      • Draw your figure with realistic proportions.
      • Try to use value or lines to draw the folds on the clothes.
      • Include any observed details and draw the facial features.
      • Include some background elements placing the figure in a simple setting to make sure your figure does not look like it is floating in space. 
  • Piece 8: Design a fashion outfit inspired by a fantastical sandwich. This fashion look should be reflective of colors, textures and shapes of ingredients in a sandwich. Use your imagination and creativity – we want to see your wildest ideas for this outfit. Who would wear it? When? Why? You can add accessories like shoes, hats, jewelry and a bag that also complete the FANTASTICAL SANDWICH theme. Enjoy drawing and have fun with it! 

Student Introduction

Select three pieces of artwork from your portfolio (Piece 1 and Piece 2 must be included). Upload a short video about the three uploaded pieces of original artwork. Discuss your choice of subject and materials, motivation, and influences. Your video should be no longer than three (3) minutes. If you are unable to create a video, you may upload a written explanation of up to 500 words (either is equally acceptable). 

Callbacks

Schools may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements. Schools may also invite students for live on-demand tasks. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a callback. A callback does not mean acceptance or rejection.

Film

Learn about film program options and audition requirements.

Programs

  • Art and Design High School (02M630): Film/Video Production (M60Q)
  • Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School (30Q501): Film and Media Arts (Q40F)

You can log in to MySchools and use the online high school directory to find each school's website and read about the programs you are interested in.

Instructions

Writing

To assess your imagination, innovation, and story-telling as well as how you express your thoughts in writing, write and submit an original story that has a beginning, middle, and end (no more than 500 words) inspired by one of these photographs. There is no need to identify what photograph you selected - the photo you select should be evident from your story. It could be something that happened right before that photograph, after the photograph, or something else that the photograph inspires in you. This could be a story, script, screenplay, or something else that demonstrates your story-telling. 

Storyboard

To assess your cinematic vision, create and submit a nine (9)-frame storyboard for a scene from your imagination. A storyboard is a visual representation of a film sequence and breaks down the action into individual panels. It is a series of ordered drawings, with camera direction, dialogue, or other pertinent details. It sketches out how a video will unfold, shot by shot. Please see this template and these storyboard resources. 

Student Introduction

Upload a short video about yourself and your work. Your video should be no longer than three (3) minutes. 

  • Discuss your storyboard - your choice of subject and why you chose the specific shots you did.
  • Why are you interested in being a filmmaker?

Callbacks

Schools may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements. Schools may also invite students for live on-demand tasks. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a callback. A callback does not mean acceptance or rejection.

Instrumental Music

Learn about instrumental music program options and audition requirements. See this folder to help you prepare for your music auditions. 

Programs

  • Bayside High School (26Q495): Music: Performance & Production (Q12B)
  • Brooklyn High School of the Arts (15K656): Instrumental Music (K47K)
  • Celia Cruz Bronx High School of Music, The (10X442): Concert Band / Jazz Band / Piano (X33A)
  • Celia Cruz Bronx High School of Music, The (10X442): Instrumental Music: Orchestra / Strings (X33M)
  • Dr. Susan S. McKinney Secondary School of the Arts (13K265): Instrumental Music (K42E)
  • Edward R. Murrow High School (21K525): Instrumental Music (K57L)
  • Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and Performing Arts (03M485): Instrumental Music program (M80L)*
  • Fordham High School for the Arts (10X437): general program (X51A)
  • Forest Hills High School (28Q440): Academy of Instrumental and Vocal Music (Q19P)
  • Fort Hamilton High School (20K490): Instrumental Music (K17R)
  • Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School (30Q501): Instrumental Music (Q40K)
  • Special Music School (03M859): Voice, Instrument, and Composition (A85A)
  • Susan E. Wagner High School (31R460): Music (R17G)
  • Talent Unlimited High School (02M519): Instrumental Music (M42P)
  • Theatre Arts Production Company School (TAPCo) (10X225): Instrumental Music (X20B)

You can log in to MySchools and use the online high school directory to find each school's website and read about the programs you are interested in.

Instructions

Prepare and submit BOTH videos specified below. Students of all abilities and experience levels are encouraged to apply. 

Video 1

Perform ONE prepared solo selection without accompaniment. Playing without accompaniment means playing by yourself without a track or additional instruments.

  • Select a piece you feel confident performing that shows your skill level and musicality.
  • Your face, hands, and whole instrument should be clearly visible, including the full keyboard for pianists.
  • If your instrument has a pedal, your feet should be visible.
  • Before playing, briefly introduce yourself, and provide the following information:
    • Your name
    • Your Student ID number (OSIS number)
    • Title of the piece you will be playing
    • Why did you choose this piece? How does this piece speak to you as a musician? (30 seconds or less)

Video 2

Perform ONE scale of your choice at a tempo (speed) you find comfortable. For Video #2, drummers (i.e., candidates who play non-pitched percussion instruments) submit a video of TWO rudiments, rather than scales. 

  • This is another opportunity for reviewers to learn more about how:
    • low and how high you can play.
    • comfortably and quickly you can move from note to note.
    • clean and precise your playing is.
    • well you are able to play in tune.
    • well you know what notes make up your selected scale.
    • playing the correct notes is most important.
  • Before playing, briefly introduce yourself, and provide the following information:
    • Your name
    • Your Student ID number (OSIS number)
    • The name of the scales or rudiments you will be playing.

For help preparing a scale or if you do not know what a scale is, please see the Resources for Audition Preparations. 

Callbacks

Individual schools may hold “callbacks” and request that you attend an individual appointment to perform additional music tasks, for example: singing back melodic patterns; tapping back rhythmic patterns; or completing a sight-reading task for which you play a short amount of music from sheet music you have not seen before. Schools may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a callback. A callback does not mean acceptance or rejection.

Photography

Learn about photography program options and audition requirements.

Programs

  • Abraham Lincoln High School (21K410): Digital Photography (K24L)
  • Art and Design High School (02M630): Digital Arts - Graphic design, Animation and Digital Photography (M60R)
  • High School of Fashion Industries, The (02M600): Art, Photography, and Graphic Design (M68J)

You can log in to MySchools and use the online high school directory to find each school's website and read about the programs you are interested in.

Instructions

It is important that the schools to which you are applying get the clearest picture possible of your unique artistic abilities and talents. Remember, each school is looking for your potential, and that means how your present skills will grow and develop over the four years you will be spending at their school.

Portfolio Upload

Photographs of up to 5 photographs of original photographs. You could complete these in any media, including digital. For additional support with this portfolio, you may view these portfolio resources. You may include any photographs you wish - potential suggestions include:

  • A self portrait
  • A still life moment with one light source
  • A moment with your family using natural light
  • A landscape scene with items in the foreground, middle ground and background using natural light

Student Introduction

Select three photographs from your portfolio. Upload a short video about the three uploaded pieces of original artwork. Discuss your choice of subject and materials, motivation, and influences. Your video should be no longer than three (3) minutes. If you are unable to create a video, you may upload a written explanation of up to 500 words (either is equally acceptable). 

Callbacks

Schools may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements. Schools may also invite students for live on-demand tasks. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a callback. A callback does not mean acceptance or rejection.

Technical Theater(New)

Learn about technical theater program options and audition requirements.

Programs

  • Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and Performing Arts (03M485): Technical Theatre program (M80P)
  • Fordham High School for the Arts (10X437): general program (X51A)

You can log into MySchools and use the online high school directory to find each school's website and read about the programs you are interested in.

Instructions

TASK #1: BUILD A HOUSE OF CARDS

This technical theater task is to build a House of Cards. You are free to interpret how to build the project and what it looks like. There are no specific dimensions other than it must freely stand on its own. This is an engineering task and we are looking at how you work given the following limitations You must:

  • Use one deck of cards (a minimum 26 and no more than 52 cards)
  • Use only one drop of glue between any two cards
  • Have at least 3 entrances to your “house”

SUBMIT: 3 photographs of your house from different angles.

TASK #2: DESIGN CONCEPT FOR A PROMPT

You are asked to theatrically design the concept of NIGHT using one medium of theatrical design (i.e. scenic, lighting, sound, costume). Using your own interpretation and choice of materials, create and share your design for NIGHT depending on the below task you choose to complete:

  • Lighting Design: 
    • Create 2-3 looks for a "set design" of your choice 
    • You may use the House of Cards or any other theatrical environment
    • Include at least 2 characters that belong in your set or environment
    • SUBMIT: 2-3 photographs or a video of your lighting scheme
  • Scenic Design: 
    • Create a shoe box model/diorama, sketches/drawings, or mood-board collage that shows the concept of NIGHT and the characters who inhabit the world.
    • SUBMIT: If creating a model/diorama, 4 photographs of the model from different angles. One must be from the front showing the whole piece you are presenting. Others should enable the judges to see details and perspective of your work.
    • SUBMIT: If creating a sketch and/or collage, 1 photograph of each image you create (please avoid shadows in your photos).
  • Sound Design 
    • Produce a 20 second soundscape that communicates the concept of NIGHT
    • You must include 3-4 unique sounds at varying lengths of time that can be repeated
    • SUBMIT: an audio file of your soundscape with accompanying photographs or video of your selected perhaps imagined) environment
  • Costume Design
    • Sketch 2-3 costume designs for characters that belong in your concept of NIGHT
    • Choose the environment and period of your choice
    • You may do traditional renderings or a 3-D costume design usingfound objects/recycled materials
    • You may build a scale model or life size costume that a human might wear (no pet costumes!!!)
    • SUBMIT:1 photographs of each image you create (Please avoid shadows in your photos)

REFLECTION QUESTION #1: SUBMIT a short video (45-60 seconds) or written (one page) reflection and analysis of your design work for Night (Task #2). Share your thought processes for your concept and why you made the artistic choices you did. Does the end product represent your vision or how might it differ?

WHY TECHNICAL THEATER QUESTION #2: SUBMIT a short video (45-60 seconds) or written (one page) on “Why is Technical Theater your Jam!?!” (Or Why Technical Theatre?)” Let us hear your passion and see your personality as you share why you want to focus on Technical Theater!

Callbacks

Schools may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements. Schools may also invite students for live on-demand tasks. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a callback. A callback does not mean acceptance or rejection.

Theater (including Drama and Musical Theater)

Learn about theater program options and audition requirements. Watch this video to help you prepare for a theater audition.

Programs

  • Brooklyn High School of the Arts (15K656): Drama program (K47R)
  • Dr. Susan S. McKinney Secondary School of the Arts (13K265): Drama program (K42D)
  • Edward R. Murrow High School (21K525): Studio Theater program (K57P)
  • Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art & Performing Arts (03M485): Drama program (M80N)
  • Fordham High School for the Arts (10X437): general program (X51A)
  • Forest Hills High School (28Q440): Drama Academy program (Q19N)
  • Fort Hamilton High School (20K490): Dramatic Arts Academy program (K17T)
  • Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School (30Q501): Drama program (Q40N)
  • Gramercy Arts High School (02M374): Theater Arts program (M66B)
  • Hillcrest High School (28Q505): Academy of Performing and Visual Arts program (Q24L)
  • Professional Performing Arts High School (02M408): Drama program (M81J)
  • Professional Performing Arts High School (02M408): Musical Theater program (M81H)*
  • Repertory Company High School for Theatre Arts (02M531): Theater Arts (M20X)*
  • Susan E. Wagner High School (31R460): Theater program (R17J)*
  • Talent Unlimited High School (02M519): Drama program (M42N)
  • Talent Unlimited High School (02M519): Musical Theater program (M42J)*
  • Theatre Arts Production Company School (TAPCo) (10X225): Drama program (X20S)
  • Wadleigh Secondary School for the Performing & Visual Arts (03M415): Theater Arts program (M26A)

You can log in to MySchools and use the online high school directory to find each school's website and read about the programs that interest you.

Instructions

Prepare and submit separate uploads of two contrasting monologues. You are also encouraged to upload a musical theater number if interested. Please note that a musical theater song is required for musical theater programs at the noted (*) musical theater programs.

At the beginning of each video, before performing, briefly introduce yourself by providing the following information.

  • Your full name
  • Your OSIS student ID number
  • Why you chose your monologue or song (30 seconds or less)
  • Why do you want to study acting? (30 seconds or less)
  • For MONOLOGUES: State the name of the character portrayed and the full title of the playwright. 
  • FOR SONGS: State the title of the song, the name of the character, full title of the musical, composer and lyricist.

View this Theater Recording Upload Video for clear steps recording your monologues or musical song. 

Video 1 and 2: Monologues

Memorize, perform, and upload two contrasting, one-minute monologues from a published play or the sample monologues library. Examples of this may be dramatic/comedic, classical/contemporary, theater/film, or two contrasting characters that have very different personalities. Choose relatable characters within your natural age range and decide to whom your characters are talking and why. You may choose to play roles of any gender. You may select your own monologues to perform but are welcome to review and choose a monologue(s) from this sample monologues library. For support with creating your video, you may view these helpful tips. 

Video 3: Musical Theater Song

Perform and upload 16 bars (or approximately one [1] minute) of a memorized song of any genre. Musical theater songs are encouraged, however pop and R&B songs are acceptable. Songs can be performed with live or recorded accompaniment or without music ‘a cappella.’ Choose a song performed by a relatable character and decide to whom your character is singing and why. You may select your own musical theater song to perform but are welcome to review and select from this sample musical theater song library.

Callbacks

Schools may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements. Schools may also invite students for live on-demand tasks. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a callback. A callback does not mean acceptance or rejection.

Visual Arts

Learn about visual arts program options and audition requirements. Watch this video to help you prepare your visual arts submissions.

Programs

  • Art and Design High School (02M630): Commercial Art: Cartooning, Illustration, Fashion Design (M60P)
  • Bayside High School (26Q495): Digital Art & Design program (Q12A)
  • Brooklyn High School of the Arts (15K656): Visual Arts program (K47J)
  • Dr. Susan S. McKinney Secondary School of the Arts (13K265): Visual Arts program (K42A)
  • Edward R. Murrow High School (21K525): Fine and Visual Arts (K57K)
  • Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and Performing Arts (03M485): Fine Arts program (M80J)
  • Fordham High School for the Arts (10X437): general program (X51A)
  • Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School (30Q501): Fine Arts program (Q40J)
  • Gramercy Arts High School (02M374): Visual Arts program (M66A)
  • High School of Fashion Industries (02M600): Art, Photography, and Graphic Design program (M68J)
  • Hillcrest High School (28Q505): Academy of Performing and Visual Arts program (Q24L)
  • Newtown High School (24Q455): Major Art program (Q34K)
  • Queens Technical High School (24Q600): Graphic Arts program (Q68B)
  • Susan E. Wagner High School (31R460): Visual Arts program (R17H)
  • Theatre Arts Production Company School (TAPCo) (10X225): Visual Arts program (X20T)
  • Wadleigh Secondary School for the Performing & Visual Arts (03M415): Visual Arts (M26J)

You can log in to MySchools and use the online high school directory to find each school's website and read about the programs that interest you.

Instructions

It is most important that the schools to which you are applying get the clearest picture possible of your unique artistic abilities and talents. Remember, each school is looking for your potential, and that means how your present skills will grow and develop over the four years you will be spending at their school.

Portfolio Upload

Photographs of 4 to 8 pieces of original artwork that includes the following (for additional support with this portfolio, you may view these visual arts portfolio resources): 

  • Piece 1: A self-portrait using a graphite drawing pencil and paper done from observation (from observation means you draw yourself by looking in a mirror).
  • Piece 2: A still life of at least 3 items, using a graphite drawing pencil and paper done from observation (from observation means you draw objects placed before you on a surface in front of you).
  • Piece 3: A figure drawing, using a graphite drawing pencil and paper. You may pose a friend or a family member in front of you. Draw the human figure from observation (from observation means you draw a live person). If you do not have access to a friend or family member, see the tutorial on figure drawing on this visual arts portfolio resources.
    • Make sure you draw the entire figure and fill the page: do not cut off parts of the head or feet. 
    • Draw your figure with realistic proportions. 
    • Try to use value or lines to draw the folds on the clothes.
    • Include any observed details and draw the facial features. 
    • Include some background elements placing the figure in a simple setting to make sure your figure does not look like it is floating in space.
  • Pieces 4-7: Add 1 to 4 additional pieces to your portfolio. You may select pieces that were created using any material in any form. They may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional.
  • Piece 8:If you are applying to Art and Design High School, Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Art, and/or Frank Sinatra School of the Arts, submit this creative drawing. (This piece is optional for students applying to other programs.) 
    • Using pencil and paper, draw a FANTASTICAL SANDWICH! Use your imagination and creativity – we want to see your wildest ideas of what a Fantastical Sandwich looks like to you. Consider for the drawing: What bizarre, unusual, or creative toppings does your sandwich have? Who made it? Who is it for? When creating your Fantastical Sandwich be sure to include a background and fill the whole page. Feel free to use colored pencils if you wish. And, have fun with it!

Student Introduction

Select three pieces of artwork from your portfolio (Piece 1 and Piece 2 must be included). Upload a short video about the three uploaded pieces of original artwork. Discuss your choice of subject and materials, motivation, and influences. Your video should be no longer than three (3) minutes. If you are unable to create a video, you may upload a written explanation of up to 500 words (either is equally acceptable). 

Callbacks

Schools may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements. Schools also may invite students for live on-demand tasks. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a callback. A callback does not mean acceptance or rejection. 

Vocal Music

Learn about vocal music program options and audition requirements. Watch this video to help you prepare for a vocal music audition.

Programs

  • Bayside High School (26Q495): Music: Performance & Production (Q12B)
  • Brooklyn High School of the Arts (15K656): Vocal Music (K47M)
  • Celia Cruz Bronx High School of Music, The (10X442): Vocal Music: Chorus (X33B)
  • Dr. Susan S. McKinney Secondary School of the Arts (13K265): Vocal Music (K42B)
  • Edward R. Murrow High School (21K525): Vocal Music (K57J)
  • Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and Performing Arts (03M485): Vocal Music (M80M)
  • Fordham High School for the Arts(10X437): general program (X51A)
  • Forest Hills High School (28Q440): Academy of Instrumental and Vocal Music (Q19P)
  • Fort Hamilton High School (20K490): Vocal Music (K17S)
  • Frank Sinatra School of the Arts High School (30Q501): Vocal Music (Q40L)
  • Professional Performing Arts High School (02M408): Classical Vocal Music (M81K) & Musical Theater (M81H)
  • Special Music School (03M859): Voice, Instrument, and Composition (A85A)
  • Susan E. Wagner High School (31R460): Music (R17G)
  • Talent Unlimited High School: Vocal Music (02M519): Classical and Contemporary (M42K)
  • Theatre Arts Production Company School (TAPCo) (10X225): Vocal Music (X20C)
  • Wadleigh Secondary School for the Performing & Visual Arts (03M415): Vocal Music (M26R)

You can log in to MySchools and use the online high school directory to find each school's website and read about the programs you are interested in.

Instructions

Prepare a video recording that includes ALL parts listed below. Students of all abilities and experience levels are encouraged to apply. 

Before singing, briefly introduce yourself. Please provide the following information:

  • Your name
  • Your Student ID number (OSIS number)
  • Title of the song you will be singing
  • Why did you choose this song? How does this song speak to you as a musician? (30 seconds or less)

Perform ONE prepared solo selection without accompaniment. Singing without accompaniment means singing by yourself without a track or pianist. Select a song you feel confident performing that shows your skill level and musicality. 

Callbacks

Schools may invite you to “callbacks” for other school specific requirements. Schools may ask you to attend an individual appointment to perform additional music tasks live, for example, singing back melodic patterns and vocal phrases, tapping back rhythmic patterns, performing basic vocal technique (singing) exercises. Do not be concerned if you are not invited for a callback. A callback does not mean acceptance or rejection.

Offers to Audition Schools

Audition programs score each student’s audition, and students are admitted in descending score order. Academic records are not used at programs with an audition admissions method. To receive an offer to LaGuardia, students must have a documented final grade from last school year of at least 65 or the equivalent in each core subject (ELA, math, science, social studies).

LaGuardia High School has six studios, and applicants will receive an offer each studio for which they have a qualifying audition score. This means that students may receive an offer to multiple studios.