Thursday 20 October 2011

Audition Tips - Part 1

Do some sight-reading every day until the audition, and in the audition sight-reading - keep going regardless!

Practice the last couple of times in the clothes you going to wear for the audition, so nothing feels weird or awkward on the day.

Finally, the panel is not there to eat you, we want you to play well! Try and feel that we are on your side, rather than we are there looking for faults.

Chris Stock, Percussion tutor


Always play a piece that you know well and that is within your capabilities. Difficult pieces performed poorly don’t impress.

Cello and bass players, make sure your spike is very sharp or bring along something to put on the floor to prevent your spike slipping.

Also, listen to a recording of the prepared excerpts. It makes a huge difference when performing them if you know how the music goes.

Finally, arrive in plenty of time and remember to bring all of your music, including photocopies for the panel!

Richard Lewis, Double Bass tutor
 

All aspects of the audition are important, but preparation of the set excerpts is vital, there are a lot of marks to be gained or lost depending on how you prepare these.

Scales and Arpeggios are also easy marks to pick up and again show the panel that you’re willing to put the time in to perfect the important building blocks of music.

Finally, some nerves are good and keep you on your toes, but some can be destructive. All of our tutors have been through many auditions themselves and so know what you’re going through. Try to relax – we’re not looking for mistakes, we want you to play to your best ability and controlling those nerves will help no end. Try some deep breathing exercises for the last few minutes before you audition time.

Matthew Jones, Youth Music Manager

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