Amy’s Tips for Audition Preparation
Alas…………..I’m preparing for an orchestra audition. It’s been a while since I have done this and am finding that I’m having to get my brain in gear. I’ve been greatly distracted in my pract…….oooo……oooo……how hard would it be to attach a starbucks cup holder to my baby grand piano?…….um……..sorry……practicing. If you are anything like me, here are some tips to remember while you are enjoying your audition prep.
1. Before you start a practice session……..workout. Yes, exercise. Your body needs to be reminded who’s boss. Also, it will help you get energy, focus, and will help you to get some muscle tone.
2. Prepare your instrument……. Take a look to see if your instrument has anything worthy of being fixed. For instance, if your violin has a giant crack down the middle–you are not going to have a great audition.
3. Pick reasonable audition pieces.….. I think it’s natural to want to choose audition pieces that we personally believe have the “wow” factor. Often times, these pieces maybe a little showy and extraordinarily technically difficult. My only recommendation is that you choose pieces that are practical for your skill range. I look at it like this……When I go shopping for fun things, I have to make purchases in my price range…….now, compare fun shopping to music for an audition—my skill set may be on a budget—and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Just like in shopping, there is no shame in buying an item that is not flashy because it fits my budget—same has to be true for the music you choose. It will look better on you to play a piece that you can play well.
4. Don’t Stress……. Remember……prepare for an audition……but don’t stress over the outcome. The reality is……you can’t control the outcome. All you can do is to do your best—so don’t assign the pressure of having to “save the world” on one audition…..or even ten auditions.
Now, being that I just offered up this advice…….it’s time for me to listen to myself……so I’m off to workout:) Happy Monday, Everyone!
