Class Piano Placement

Guidelines

There are four sections of class piano: MUS 201M, MUS 201N, MUS 210J, MUS 210K. 


Please note that class piano content is completely different than that of individual applied lessons. Students may have played for ten or more years but are unable to harmonize a melody or play from a lead sheet. Taking one exam at a time ensures that students continue to be on track for their discipline and are not left behind or have gaps in their education. In case a student is not ready to test out from one of the more advanced class piano courses they may still register for it and not miss any classes. 

In FALL there are two available placement exams: 201M (first semester of class piano) and 210J (3rd semester of class piano). Please note that you can not test out of the third semester of class piano unless you have successfully passed both 201M and 201N test out exams. If a student was enrolled in 201M and 201N they must have an A for both semesters in order to attempt the test out exam of 210J (3rd semester). Exceptions to take the tests out of sequence may be granted on a case-by-case basis. Students will automatically pass their piano proficiency exam if they successfully pass the test out exam correlating to the appropriate semester. 

  • 201N: Piano proficiency 1

  • 210K: Piano Proficiency 2
     

EXAM

IMPORTANT: Eligibility to attempt a class piano test-out exam requires a grade of A in every prior course in the sequence. For example, students completing 201M and 201N must earn an A in both semesters to test out of 210J. The exception is the first class piano course, 201M.

PROCEDURE

  • Register for your exam using the link below.

  • The exam will be held in person in MRH 4.182.

  • Arrive 5 minutes early, warmed up and ready to play.

  • Students who sign up but do not show up will not be permitted to reschedule unless there is an emergency.

  • Schedule changes are permitted up to one day before the test date. No changes are allowed on the day of the test.

EXAM DETAILS

  1. Please email Dr. Denenburg to receive the package at m.denenburg@utexas.edu

  2. The exam packet contains all required information. Please read it carefully and ensure you understand each section. Items marked “at sight” will be performed during the exam for the first time. The goal is to assess your understanding and proficiency in class piano material.

  3. Reading prima vista: materials will not be distributed in advance. The goal is to assess real-time reading skills.

  4. Students are encouraged to run through prepared materials at least once before the exam. Warming up is strongly recommended. Practice rooms are available on the 5th and 6th floors.

  5. Bring all required materials and have them ready to play. Only selected portions of each section will be heard during the exam.

 

Exam registration
 

Register Now