4. Orchestra Auditions

Starting to prepare:

• Listen to the repertoire.
  • Pay attention to the style, bowings, and fingerings used.
  • Listen to how the other instrument parts interact with your part. Imagine those parts as you are practicing.
  • Listen to a variety of performances. If possible, find a recording of the orchestra you’re auditioning for.
  • Always follow the tempo indication provided by the ensemble you’re auditioning for, even if it differs from some of the recordings you hear.
• If using paper, avoid unnecessary page turns in the middle of an excerpt. E.g., don’t print a 2-page piece double-sided. Keep the sheet music organized so you can flip between excerpts quickly and easily (put it in a binder).
• Bring audition materials to your lessons. If you’re out of school, consider playing for a professional orchestral musician.
• Observe rests and repeat signs, unless otherwise marked.

  Use a metronome and drones

   

Getting closer to audition day:

• Checking your equipment:
  • How old are your strings? Do they sound false?
  • When did you last get your bow re-haired?
  • Is your endpin sharp? Bring an endpin strap anyway.
  • Plan to bring a spare bow and spare set of strings to the audition (it’s a good idea to always bring these wherever you play).
• Play for friends/teachers in a mock audition more than once. Have your audience decide which excerpt you’ll play next.
• Practice transitioning between excerpts.
  • Take a few seconds between each excerpt: turn the page, breathe, and imagine the sound and tempo of the music in your mind.
• Practice performing your excerpts in suboptimal conditions, to mimic the discomfort of real-life auditions.
  • E.g., play the first page of Don Juan without warming up into it. Only do this if you have already played that day, since it is important to warm your body up before playing.
• Record your excerpts and listen back.
• Practice while wearing your audition outfit, especially your shoes. Don’t wait until you’re at the audition to find out that your movement is restricted or your buttons clack loudly against your cello.
• Know the logistical audition details:‌
  • Is it screened? If so, you may be asked not to speak to preserve anonymity.
  • Are there multiple rounds? If so, when will they take place?
• Make an audition day checklist: sheet music, rosin, endpin stop, spare bow, spare strings, tuner, water bottle, mute, snacks, dress shoes, etc.

Audition day:

• Arrive early so you can orient yourself and get settled without additional stress.
• Warm up before you head to the audition. Don’t count on having an ideal warm-up location there.
• Focus on yourself (not other auditionees) and do your routine that helps you to get ready.
• Advocate for yourself: if there’s a problem (e.g., wobbly chair, no music stand), tell the audition proctor.