<p>I know that auditions are really important, especially if that audition holds the next four years in its hand. For me, it's really difficult to play as well in front of people as I do in practice. The biggest mistake that I make is changing the fingering of the note right on the spot, as that usually puts me off. Does anyone have some tips on how to stand out and play well at auditions?</p>
<p>Practice doing auditions a lot, and performing. My daughter used to freeze up during auditions. Then she started doing more of them, usually auditioning for something on two instruments, mainly for the practice of it. Now she performs and auditions better than she sounds in the practice room.</p>
<p>Take advantage of every possible opportunity to perform. Do practice/mock auditions: ak your school music teacher to give you a practice audition; make your family (parents, sibs, grandparents etc.) sit through your audition rep; get friends to lend their ears for 15 minutes (that’s all the time most auditions take). Practice recording yourself at least once per week (and don’t allow a retake on the recording–it’s an audition, after all!). </p>
<p>Know your repertoire so well that fingering errors do not occur.</p>
<p>Visualize yourself auditioning successfully.</p>
<p>I know how you feel. I used to always get tense and scared of playing for people (I sometimes still do). What I have learned from instructors is very simple that it’s HARD. When they say “You may Begin,” DONT just start immediately. Breathe in slowly and deep, play your first note, breathe in again until you feel comfortable, and finally play! It really helps out a LOT, but it does require getting used to.</p>
<p>I just recently went through a college audition which, pretty funny, was yesterday a few hours after you posted this question. I will say that you should schedule to visit the school of music. Contact the school by email or contact the professor for your instrument via the school of music website. Just ask if you can meet them sometime (if they arent too far) and request an hour lesson. This helps since YOU learn that that music schools are looking for students who are well rounded in expressive playing and technicality. This helps THEM know your study habits and ability to learn (instructors dont want students who are not willing to learn). When scheduling to meet with the professor, you can also attend some music classes to get the experience of what the school will feel like. When I auditioned, I was SUPER nervous before I walked in, BUT once I did, I was nicely greeted by the Trumpet professors (one of which I had previously met with). They are usually all very nice and sincere. I played my first etude using the calming strategy I listed above and even cracked a joke in-between my etudes. </p>
<p>Just enter in as being yourself and imagine as if you are playing to entertain and excite an audience, because THAT’S what it is to be a musician! Also, if they ask you for any questions, ASK! This gives you a chance to actually show your interest in their program. I am eagerly awaiting my acceptance notification. Good Luck to YOU, and follow my advice, I made an account just so I could comment on this! Lol</p>