Audition for an Orchestra – Once you’ve mastered your instrument and are seeking new challenges, joining an orchestra can elevate your skills and expand your social network. If you’re ready to connect with fellow young musicians and take your playing to the next level, this article is here to guide you through the process!
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What Should You Know Before Audition for an Orchestra?
It is truly said that when words fail to express themselves, it is music that does the job. Music plays an important role in our lives and each one of us enjoys listening to them either when we are feeling low or when we are high on energy.
Either way, musicians are trained to be the best in what they are interested in. For example, an orchestra requires a lot of musicians. If you want to be a part of it and you know how to use an instrument then you can choose to attend an audition.
Musical auditions may not require you answering questions but the thing that matters the most is the ability to deliver an exceptional performance. There are some points that you need to keep in mind before auditioning for an orchestra.
How To Prepare For An Orchestra Audition: Tips & Suggestions
Playing an instrument in your free time is quite different than playing at an audition. Youngsters tend to make mistakes which ultimately costs their entry into an orchestra band. So, next time while auditioning you need to be extremely careful. Here are some valuable tips and suggestions that will help you prepare for your orchestra auditions.
- Get valuable insights from your music teacher a day or two before your auditions. A last minute talk with your music teacher can really mess things up. So, take your time and talk to a music professional at least two days ahead.
- Research all about the orchestras that you have/want to audition for beforehand. This proves to be quite beneficial because researching helps you understand the kind of rules and regulations certain orchestras follow. You will also understand a lot of different significant points.
- Choose what you want to play at the auditions. Do not confuse yourself with a complex musical piece. You can seek advice from your music teacher beforehand. You do not have to know the song fully by heart because you may be stopped mid-play.
- Practice on a daily basis improves confidence and flow of playing the instrument that you wish to play at the auditions. Try practicing in front of a mirror because body language does play a pivotal role in a successful audition.
- Try keeping a calm mind while you are auditioning and before. Think about the positive things that you have thought of after becoming a successful musician. Positive thinking has scientifically proved that it helps enhance real-life scenarios of the fancy.
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Exploring The Ways Of A Successful Orchestra Audition: What Should You Do During Your Audition?
Finally, the day has arrived for you to impress the person overseeing the audition at one go. So, it is likely that you will be a little nervous. Well, there are some things that you still need to keep in mind during your auditions. Being nervous is a common thing but losing confidence while you are auditioning because of stage fright is yet another big issue. Look at some of the points mentioned below.
- Drink plenty of water and keep yourself well-hydrated. You would want to give your best in the auditions. Feeling light headed due to insufficient fluid intake could destroy your opportunity.
- Try leaving your house early so that you can arrive at the location at least 10 minutes early. You may not be the only one for the auditions and being late could hamper your chances of being selected. Do not forget to carry any useful equipment at the audition venue.
- Always introduce yourself to the audition conductor. he/she must know that you are present for the auditions. State your name, age, song that you are about to play and such.
- Now, start playing the music that you have practiced for days after taking permission from the audition overseer. Be prepared to be stopped mid-way because the person in-charge will be an expert in the musical field and he will understand your capability within a few minutes or seconds.
- After you are finished or asked to stop by your overseer then wait for him/her to speak. The information that he/she will be sharing next will determine your selection into the orchestra. You will receive direct feedback on the areas you need to work on.
What Are Some Mistakes To Avoid During An Orchestra Audition?
There are a million things that could go wrong because we are not perfect. But, there are still some mistakes that give us an idea about how a person will be. Same goes while you are about to audition as well where you need to avoid certain mistakes to be judged as an incompetent musician.
- Being punctual coupled with proper discipline is an appreciative thing. People can easily judge the kind of person by their behavior. Speak in a soft and clear voice with anyone you have to meet.
- Wear clothes that are comfortable for your orchestra auditions. Any kind of uncomfortness due to your outfit can make you lose focus.
- Do not skip your meal before you attend the auditions. Apart from seriously injuring yourself by fainting you can lose the chance of getting selected as well.
- Select a musical piece that you are comfortable with. Do not go for complex musical pieces which require extreme levels of effort. You trying to impress the audition conducted can easily backfire.
- Carry necessary equipment at the audition venue. You can carry your documents, water bottle, your instrument etc.