Performing Arts Audition Requirements

Fall 2025

Performing arts audition files are submitted digitally to MySchools.Do not submit files directly to Halsey. For more information on the application process and timeline, visit the Middle School Auditions page on the NYC Public Schools Website.

Applicants can submit audition files in one or more of the categories below.

When students are accepted via performance audition, the category of the audition does not affect the assigned 6th grade Talent class. For more information, email the Assistant Principal of Talents, Mr. Dechongkit.

Band/Instrumental Music

Students who play an instrument should prepare a solo that is less than 4 minutes long. You may audition using any instrument to demonstrate music ability. Students in Halsey band learn to play one of following instruments: flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium/baritone, tuba, xylophone, and drums. The sheet music should be in front of students as they perform.

Students will be evaluated on musical literacy, tempo, tone, technique, and posture.

Please direct any questions about audition requirements to our band teacher, Katianna Zaffery: [email protected].

Dance

Prepare and record a short solo 1:00 minutes in length to music of any dance style that shows your strengths and passion for dance. Begin by introducing yourself, stating your first and last name and OSIS number. Then explain how you created or learned your dance. Create your own work, or perform something learned by a teacher, set to music with appropriate lyrics. Record so that full body movements are shown. Wear dance attire: leotard, tights, leggings, yoga pants, exercise or sweatpants and a fitted t-shirt. Submissions will be evaluated based on technique, musicality, performance/expression, and creativity/uniqueness. Questions may be emailed to Ms. Gruet: [email protected].

Theatre Arts

Perform and video record a 1-2 minute memorized monologue from a published play of your choice (age appropriate). A suggested source for monologues from published plays can be found in Great Scenes and Monologues for Children Ages 7-14 edited by Craig Slaight and Jack Sharrar, as well as here: http://tinyurl.com/yrh29at2.

Applicants should be prepared to introduce themselves, the character they are playing, and the play the monologue is from. Video record showing full body or at least waist up, so that you can reveal the body language of your character you are portraying in your monologue. Students will be evaluated on their ability to use vocal expression and body language to reveal the character’s feelings, emotions, actions and experiences, as well as their stage/on-camera presence. Questions may be emailed to Ms. Schwarz: [email protected].

Visual Art

The aim is to have the clearest picture possible of your unique artistic abilities and talents. Remember, Halsey 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:

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, you can google an image for reference. 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.

Submissions will be evaluated on applicants’ creativity, technical accuracy, composition, and craftsmanship/presentation. Questions may be emailed to Ms. Lamere: [email protected].

Vocal Music

Perform one vocal selection. Choose a song that you like to sing. It can be in any style, but it should be singing, not rapping or another spoken word song. Please perform the song memorized, if possible. Students do not have to sing the whole song, but should make sure it is at least 60 seconds of singing. Please sing your piece a cappella (without a karaoke track or piano accompaniment). Submissions will be evaluated on applicants’ tone, range, pitch, rhythm, accuracy, posture, and stage presence. If you have any questions, please contact the choral director Ms. Shikowitz at [email protected]

Open House Slideshow

Middle School Open House JHS 157