COLLEGE OF MUSIC AUDITION TIPS

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In this video we provide advice for auditioning to a College Of Music program. Here are some things to think about on your journey:

00:12 - THE OTHER PERSON’S PERSPECTIVE

Put yourself in the perspective of the person that’s adjudicating you.

Think about the things they would be looking for.

As someone who helps make decisions in auditions, I’m looking for things like:

- Range of expression.

- Tempo maintenance and control.

- The sound you’re creating from the instrument.

- Is the sound you’re creating intentional for the piece you’re playing?

- Are you handling the demand of the music?

As you practice, ask yourself if you’re performing in a way that is specifically impressive to the people who will have an opinion about it.

03:00 - KNOW WHAT THEY’RE LOOKING FOR

You have to know the requirements the school is asking for. Know all the things they’re expecting of you, and be fully prepared to be undeniable in the way you showcase those things.

05:33 - HARDER IS NOT BETTER

Your music selection is very important. Performers will usually select pieces that are too hard for them and don’t showcase their strengths. The staff doesn’t want to see you struggle through a piece that’s too hard for you. They would rather see a more simple piece played really well.

Pick a piece that has demands that you are already good at, and perfect it so you can throw it down with quality. This will also relieve stress and allow you to work on the quality of other instruments you’re not as good at like Timpani or Marimba.

An online training and personal mentoring program, teaching you the skills and giving you the resources to live your dream as a percussion performer.

Audition Tips