Auditions are an important part of determining seating in school orchestras. Preparing for a school orchestra audition can be a nerve-wracking experience, but here are some general tips to help you better prepare for a good audition:
1. Find Out About Audition Requirements
It’s best to find out about audition dates and requirements early in the school year so you’ll have adequate time to prepare. Check with your music teacher to find out about audition dates and what scales, etudes, solo works, and orchestral pieces you’ll have to play for the audition. Most music teachers will have a scoring system and generally solo works and orchestral pieces are worth more than scales and etudes so be sure to find out how each section is scored. Some schools audition once a school year while others may require students to audition every semester. Try to register your audition during a study hall period, before or after school so it will not conflict with your classes.
2. Preparing For The Audition
It may be wise to look for a reputable private teacher in your area to get professional coaching before your audition. You can ask your school music teacher for recommendations as most schools are given a list of private teachers within the district. Tell your private teacher about the audition date, requirements and discuss with them what solo work is appropriate for you based on your ability. Next, go to your nearest music store or sheetmusicplus.com to obtain the necessary sheet music. If you do not own an instrument, make the necessary arrangements to buy or rent one with your school or local music store. Practice the music everyday and follow your private teacher’s advice on how to improve your technique and musicality. Depending on your level, it’s best to give yourself between 1-2 months to prepare seriously for the audition.
3. A Week Before Your Audition
A week before your audition, make the necessary arrangements with your study hall teacher or parents to let you attend the audition. Verify your audition time and requirements again with your music teacher.
4. Day of the Audition
Get a good night's rest the day beforehand and eat a good breakfast the morning of your audition. Make sure to bring extra reeds, strings, bows, etc. depending on your instrument. Arrive at least 20-30 minutes before your audition to get and tune your instrument and warm up with various finger exercises, scales, and etudes. With your remaining time, go over the difficult parts in your solo piece. Stay calm during your audition and play the pieces as requested by your music teacher. At the conclusion of your audition, remember to thank your music teacher.
If you feel your audition did not go well, talk to your music teacher about the possibility of doing a re-audition. Good luck on your audition!
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