Applying to the Program

Applications for the 2026-2027 McClatchy’s VAPA Music Program have closed. Those who applied to the program via the SCUSD school mint procedure before November 21, 2026, are advised to complete the audition to move onto the next step of the process.

The Audition

The final step of the application process is a live audition. The audition consists of the performance of the five pre-selected instrument and voice specific musical exercises found below and a short sight-reading check. It is important to remember that the audition is not an acceptance requirement but an opportunity for the program’s directors to measure applicants’ abilities and for applicants to learn more about the expectations of the program. Auditions will take place through all of February. To schedule an audition, complete the form linked below.

Audition Sign Up Form
Audition Materials

A Note About the VAPA Music Waiting List

Traditionally, McClatchy’s VAPA Music has not had a waiting list as all applicants have been given an opportunity to participate. Due to the largest number of applicants to the program ever and McClatchy High School’s high enrollment numbers, however, the Sacramento Unified School District has made the decision to limit the number of students the program is allowed to accept. This was an unexpected development that the directors of the program are working to remedy.

All applicants with continued interest in the program, regardless of acceptance status, are encouraged to undergo the audition process. This allows those on the waiting list to keep their position and those who made it through the lottery to have an opportunity to decline their invitation to participate after program expectations are shared.

A Note About Dual Enrollment

Students that have been offered a seat in the HISP program and wish to pursue dual enrollment in the VAPA Music Program are asked to share that information during their audition. Questions about dual enrollment are to be directed to contact VAPA Music program directors, Jorge Muñoz at jorge-munoz@scusd.edu or Nico Peruzzi at nicola-peruzzi@scusd.edu.