Getting Started

Admission to the Mary Pappert School of Music requires a Duquesne University application and successful completion of a formal music audition. 
Audition Process & Guidelines.

Looking for important deadlines and tips for submitting materials?
Undergraduate Timeline  |  Graduate Timeline  |  International Timeline

Ask one of our current students what life is like as a Duquesne Musician.
Music Student Ambassadors.

Tom Carsecka talks with a prospective student.

Let's Connect

If you're looking for somewhere to start, begin with our Music Admissions team. You can ask us anything! Submit your request below, and we will connect you to the people and experiences that fit your interests. 

Request Information

Contact Us

Get answers to questions about auditions, scholarships, degree programs, classroom observations and other opportunities.

Thomas Carsecka

Director of Music Admissions and Community Programs

Tom Carsecka

Experience Being a Student

Why is the Mary Pappert School of Music #1 for so many? See for yourself!

A cellist holds a cello in this headshot.

Connect with Current Students

Our music ambassadors are current students that represent the full spectrum of instruments and degree pathways at the Mary Pappert School of Music.

A trumpet student and teacher work together.

Meet your Future Teacher

All applicants receive a free lesson with our faculty to help them prepare for the audition

Sign Up for a Lesson
Duquesne Orchestra Performing
Did you know? High school students can attend any Duquesne Concert free of charge!

Experience our Ensembles

Attend a concert or sit in on a rehearsal! Students can choose from orchestras, wind ensembles, choirs and jazz ensembles as well as premier chamber groups like the Studio Recording Ensemble, Opera Workshop, The Dukes Music, and more.

Audition Dates & Guidelines

Full Calendar

All dates for the current admission cycle are listed below. You can choose between online or in-person format. When you're ready, register to audition on your applicant portal.
  • November 17, 2023
  • December 1, 2023
  • January 19, 2024
  • February 2, 2024
  • February 16, 2024

  • Audition appointments beyond 2/16/24 can be requested on your applicant portal or by contacting the office of music admissions musicadmissionsFREEDUQUESNE.

Your audition day experience will include multiple components based on your degree, instrument, and level of study. We will provide a detailed and personalized audition schedule to help you navigate the day.

guitarist performing on stage

Audition Guidelines

In addition to a live audition (online or in-person), all applicants submit an audition portfolio. Learn more about the guidelines for your degree program and instrument.

Experience Being a Music Student

A professor works with students in a music technology lab.

Music Technology Summer Intensive

The Music Technology Summer Intensive is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in...

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Trumpet players performing.

Summer Jazz Experience

Enjoy activity-filled days rehearsing, performing, and learning about jazz, America's...

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A person smiles while playing piano.

Summer Piano Workshop

Open to high school students in grades 9 through 12, this Piano Workshop provides an exclusive...

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A person sings with a pianist in the background.

High School Vocal Workshop

The High School Vocal Workshop is a collaborative exploration for high school singers...

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Music Awards and Scholarships

We are proud to offer exceptional award packages that can cover up to 100% of tuition! All accepted music students are automatically considered for scholarships and financial assistance from the Mary Pappert School of Music.

A violinist performs.

Academic and Talent-based Awards for Undergrads

The Mary Pappert School of Music offers competitive scholarship packages that recognize the academic merit and artistry of each applicant.

A trumpet player performs.

Graduate Performance Awards & Assistantships

At the Mary Pappert School of Music, we offer performance-based awards as well as assistantships to graduate applicants and enrolled students.

A singer performs with a pianist accompanying.

Annual Funding & Scholarship Competitions

As an enrolled student, you can apply and compete for additional funding to support your education. Check out some of our recent endowed scholarship recipients.

Alumni Highlight

Alex Weibel

This place has magic in the air and electricity in every rehearsal. I love the Mary Pappert School of Music, and have decided to continue my journey at the graduate level working toward a Master's in Jazz Guitar Performance.

Alex Weibel BS Music Education 2022, current graduate student