Fall Auditions 2016

What to bring:

1. A great attitude and willingness to learn
2. 3 ring binder with clear sleeves
3. Music, exercises, pencil all in binder (materials to be handed out at camps)
4. Comfortable clothing, tennis shoes, water bottle
5. Your brain

What to expect:

1. Rehearsal starts on time get there early enough to set up.
2. Everything you do is part of the audition process. (ex….on time, prepared, good attitude) If at any time during the season a member fails to meet expectations the staff or group that student may be move to a different instrument to benefit the group.
3. At any point you may be asked to play individually. Keep in mind this is not to humiliate you but to allow the staff to see what you can do. Playing as an individual is a good thing, we might just want you to demonstrate your amazing technique!

Technique:

Each section has a variety of techniques that we will spend hours upon hours developing as the season progresses. The exercise packet you recieve is just a starting point. The staff is looking for you the performer to demonstrate the best sound on your instrument of choice with good timing, feel, sound and touch. Possible snare drummers will audition using traditional grip.

1. Timing is the spacing of events in time. How accurate are you with your rhythms? Could a computer transcribe what you are playing perfectly?
2. Feel comes from a performer’s ability to relax as they are playing. This is the human and musical aspect we add to our timing.
3. Sound has to do with your listening and awareness skills. Can you hear your mistakes (we all make them) and adjust your playing? Can you balance and blend your sound in an ensemble?
4. Touch has to do with your ability to adjust your technique to the music. For example, if a passage requires a legato or staccato sound can you demonstrate the differences?

In summary, use your brain and common sense. Get the sound you want in your head and let your brain tell your hands what to do; you’ll be surprised of what you are capable.