2025-2026 Mariachi Audition Requirements

When are auditions and callbacks?

The first stage of auditions for the 2025-26 school year will be virtual. 

Submissions will be accepted from December 10, 2024 – February 21, 2025.  Each assignment and video will be uploaded individually.  The submission deadline for materials is Friday, February 21, 2025 at 11:59 PM CT. 

Callbacks are by invitation only.  You will be notified if you have received a callback no later than February 26, 2025.  Callback instructions will be provided to students at that time.  You will not need to prepare any additional materials.  Hold the date of Saturday, March 1, 2025 for a possible in person callback.

What do I need to prepare?

Part 1:  30-60 second introduction – Brief video introduction of who you are, how long you have been playing and why you are interested in attending Kinder HSPVA’s Instrumental department

Part 2: Video recordings with clear audio of you performing the following:

• Play two scales of your choice: C, D, E, F, G, A, Bb for your correspondent instrument (see files below).
• Perform two 2-minute Mariachi excerpts of your choice from the material below for your instrument.
• Perform an additional 2-minute selection of a song of your choice that shows originality.  Singing is encouraged for this selection but not required.

NOTE:  Each video will be uploaded individually.

HOW TO RECORD YOUR VIDEO

Using a phone or other device, make a video performing the scale and solo works that were listed above.  Please follow these guidelines:

• Your entire body from head to toe including hands and instrument should be visible on the video. 
• Make sure that the final version you submit represents your best playing.  Unlike a live audition, you can keep recording until you are satisfied.
• If you are unable to record a video or upload for any reason, please contact Mr. Klein, Magnet Coordinator, to discuss alternatives. (jklein1@houstonisd.org)

How do I upload my materials?

Submissions will be accepted from December 10, 2024 – February 21, 2025.  Each assignment and video will be uploaded individually.  The submission deadline for materials is Friday, February 21, 2024 at 11:59 PM CT. 

Audition materials for the 2025-26 school year will be accepted at https://app.getacceptd.com/kinderhspva beginning December 10, 2024.  The deadline to submit materials is February 21, 2025. 

Instructions:

1. If you have not already created an account with Acceptd, you will need to do that first.  Acceptd is a platform used by some of the best colleges, universities, conservatories, summer programs, and competitions.  This platform is NOT connected with CHOOSEHISD.org and your username and passwords do not need to match.  We suggest that you sign up as a parent, and when adding your student, indicate that the student does NOT have an email account.  If you include your student’s email address, they will need to verify the account before you submit their application.
2. After creating an account, you’ll need to browse programs and search for “HSPVA” or make sure you are logged in and click HERE
3. Complete the application and upload materials as directed.

For technical questions, please visit Acceptd's Applicant Help Desk.