Prepare for Your Symphony Audition

Three-Part Audition

1. Scale of Choice

STRINGS: Play three-octave scale

WOODWINDS & BRASS: Two-octave scale: legato ascending, tongued descending

PIANO: Four-octave scale

HARP: Three-octave scale

PERCUSSION/TIMPANI: No scale required

2. Performance Piece

Select a one-minute excerpt from a performance piece of your choice. You can start anywhere in the piece.

3. Sight-Reading

Sight-reading music excerpt will be provided at the audition.

Note: If you would like to audition for concertmaster, please prepare two contrasting performance pieces. Additional sight-reading material will also be provided at the audition.

Tips Prior to the Audition

Review key signatures and time signatures.

Practice getting nervous by playing in front of your teacher, family members, friends, or total strangers.

Tips at the Audition

Before you play the excerpt in the audition, scan the music for key signature (and changes), tempo markings, rhythms, bowing, articulations, accidentals, etc.

Accuracy is more important than speed.

COUNT! Keep a steady beat.

Arrive 20 minutes early.

Sunday dress will ensure a more professional audition.

Note: You will be notified by email about the results of the audition within the week after auditions have completed.

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