<p>Hi I have a few questions about the wind ensemble at Cal..</p>
<p>I play trombone at my high school and would love to do wind ensemble at Cal if I get in. But..
- How hard is the audition process?
- What would be an appropriate "self prepared" piece?
- I hear that second semester there is no audition. Would it be better to join then, after I get accustomed to Cal? Of course I don't want to overwhelm myself first semester</p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>Hi! I’m a current Cal student who also played an instrument in high school, and I did wind ensemble for a few semesters.</p>
<p>The audition process is pretty low key. I used one of the all state audition pieces from my high school years, something with a technical section and a lyrical section. Make sure you know your scales. You will be asked to sight read as well.</p>
<p>You still have to audition spring semester, but they let basically anyone into the “lower” wind ensemble. This is not as much of an elite performing group, but it’s very fun and a good way to keep playing your instrument.</p>