Preparing for the Audition

All schools will require a performance audition, either by tape and/or in person. Most schools will require a live audition. Such auditions are usually held at the school, although some institutions will schedule audition dates in selected cities throughout the country.

If your audition application is accepted, you will receive a letter with information as to the audition date and time. If you've started this process early enough, you should have sufficient time to prepare your audition material. Many schools will send a prepared list of pieces that are required for the audition, and most will also ask you to prepare an etude and/or solo of your choice that will display your musical abilities.

Always be prepared to play you major and minor scales, the chromatic scale and various combinations, such as arpeggios, thirds, and octaves in a variety of articulations, as this is usually a minimum requirement. Most schools will ask you to sightread something as well.

Your solo choice should include a slow section that highlights tone and expression and a contrasting section that focuses on technical abilities. Your private teacher can offer repertoire suggestions if no set required piece or pieces are mandated.

Practicing for an Audition

Once your audition material has been determined, carefully analyze the piece for style, tempo, and expression markings.

If the piece is fast and technical, play it slowly and carefully under tempo for many days. Believe it or not, the quickest way to master any fast piece is by steady, rhythmic, slow practice.
A slow, expressive solo requires very careful preparation - there's literally no place to hide. Play with expression, observing dynamics, and attempt to bring to life the composer's work. Listen carefully for tone quality and intonation and play from your soul.
Ask you play your prepared material in front of the class - there is no substitute for a live audience.
Remember, that daily practice of 15-30 minutes a day will not prepare you for a successful audition or a career in music. If you have to be told to practice, you'd probably be well-advised to choose another career!

Audition Day

Get plenty of rest the night before your audition.
Arrive for your audition in plenty of time to secure a warm-up room. Do not over-practice prior to your performance.
Dress appropriately. Your demeanor is just as important as your playing, and you make a good impression by paying attention to details.
If you are unclear about something, ask politely for the question to be repeated.
Do not forget to bow after your performance and acknowledge your accompanist if you have one.
Wait on stage until the committee chairperson releases you.

An audition is nothing to fear if you've prepared carefully. Remember that every member of the audition committee has taken an audition at one time or another. Committee members are , first and foremost, teachers of musicians - they know exactly how you feel and understand the stress a performance causes. Most will be kind and fair.

Your time in high school is nearly over. College is a new world for you to explore, musically and academically. It is an exciting time - go for it! We'll see you in Carnegie Hall some day.