#1. GO TO THE AUDITION

Most people cut themselves before the audition even happens by getting nervous and deciding not to go. Worst case scenario is that you get cut and now you learned something and are in a much better position to make it for next year.

#2. KNOW YOUR MUSIC

Show up knowing everything in the audition packet. The instructors want to see how well you can play and will want to spend time giving you comments on how to improve, not spending time teaching you the beats. 

#3. LISTEN AND ADAPT QUICKLY

You don't have to be the best player in the world to get a spot. A large part of making it is connected to your ability to make changes quickly and retain information.

#4. HAVE A SENSE OF URGENCY

Make sure that you are maxing out what you're being asked to do. Move quickly when given direction and do EVERYTHING from getting water to playing your music to the best of your ability at all times. If the staff can see that you have heart and really care about getting better, it will help show your drive towards greatness. 

#5. STAY FOCUSED AND GET OUT OF YOUR OWN HEAD

Many times we have the chops to make the ensemble, but not the mental focus. We often get nervous at auditions and break or do weird things when we play in front of the staff because we are thinking too much. Don't allow the voice inside your head to interrupt your thought process. Just stay relaxed and do what you have practiced. Give energy when you play and spend your time thinking about the task at hand.  

HAVE FUN!

Good luck everyone!! Remember to practice and prepare. The more prepared you are, the less nervous you will be, and nerves alone can make or break you in the audition process. Stay confident, know your music, and chop out every day!