Applications for Sewanee 2012 are now being accepted. Each student who has submitted a complete application will be notified about admission status within 3 weeks of the March 15th deadline.
We are still accepting applications in violin, viola, cello, horn, percussion, and piano.
Students are selected for admission to the SSMF on the basis of musical background and performance ability. The minimum age is 12 years old with no strict maximum age limit, only the requirement that the student currently be enrolled in a college or graduate program.
Application materials
(may be submitted online or by mail–click on “application” on the left)
- Application Form, including repertoire list and résumé. Note: Résumé must be titled first letter of first name, last name to be considered.
- Two letters of recommendation, including one from private teacher
- Application Fee ($60, unless complete application is submitted by Feb. 1)
- Click HERE to pay the application fee online using a secure form.
- Recorded or live audition
- online: mp3 format
- by mail: Audio CD only—no video
Audition requirements
Students should submit a high-quality recording, audio only, containing a minimum of two contrasting works. One work may be an etude. A movement of a standard concerto or similar work is recommended. Orchestral excerpts are not required but may be submitted in addition to two other works.
Your signature on your application is your assurance that you are the performer in the recording, and that the recording is unedited.
Completed applications
Applications are only considered when all materials, including application fee, are in the SSMF office.
Returning students do not need to submit letters of recommendation. Audition recordings for returning students are required only for students seeking scholarship/financial aid support.
Admission schedule
Feb. 1, 2012
Deadline for waiver of $60 application fee
Deadline for guaranteed consideration for wind players
Mar. 15, 2012
Regular admission deadline. Deadline for guaranteed consideration.
The number of students accepted for each instrument is strictly limited to those who can be accommodated in the two orchestras. This ensures maximum benefit for each participant. Wind instrument places in particular are very limited. Applicants are encouraged to apply early for full consideration. Those who wish to apply after the deadline should contact the SSMF office for information on available places in their instrument.
Applicants will be notified of the status of their application within three weeks of receipt of all application materials. A non-refundable deposit of $250 is due within two weeks (14 days) of the dated acceptance notification in order to reserve a place in the Festival.
Live Auditions
Live auditions will be held in Sewanee on Saturday, March 3, 2012. Live auditions in other locations may be held by special arrangement. Contact the SSMF office for further information.
Tuition
The all-inclusive $3,750 fee includes tuition, weekly lessons, daily chamber music coaching, room, meals, recreation, and University student service fees for the full session. Accepted students must submit a non-refundable deposit of $250 within two weeks (14 days) of the dated acceptance letter in order to reserve a place in the Festival. Full payment of all fees is required by May 14, 2012. If payment is not received by this date, the student may forfeit his/her place to a student on the waiting list. Students withdrawing from the Festival after May 14 but before June 9, 2012, will receive a refund of 50% of the total fee. No refunds will be made after June 9, 2012.
Financial Aid and Scholarship
Generous endowment support allows us to offer assistance to students based on merit and financial need. All students wishing to receive assistance must submit a fully completed Financial Aid Application by March 15, 2012. Copies of 2010 or 2011 household income tax forms are required to verify income.
Financial aid and scholarship awards are limited. Students wishing consideration for aid are encouraged to apply as early as possible. Students should also explore additional funding sources in their own communities through arts organizations, corporations, foundations, and businesses.
