What to do

• Present a professional image (you get only one chance to make a first impression)
• Take control of the situation (plan what you are going to play and do)
• Dress for the occasion
• Be on time and warmed up
• Make sure your instrument and reeds are working properly
• Leave your case outside the room
• Have your instrument out and ready
• Introduce yourself and your repertoire
• Get the committee’s attention
• Speak clearly
• Look people in the eye
• Know correct pronunciations of composers and compositions
• Demonstrate your ability, facility, and sensitivity
• Communicate if you have a legitimate problem (long before the audition)

What to avoid

• Do not wear shorts, jeans, hats, etc.
• Do not make excuses or apologies (for anything)
• Do not draw attention to problems (the committee may not notice)

What Not to Say

• I haven’t warmed up.
• I haven’t had a chance to practice.
• I didn’t know . . .
• I just got this horn.
• What should I play?
• What would you like to hear?
• I didn’t have my instrument/sticks/etc...
• I didn’t bring any music.
• Nobody told me . . .

What to do the day of the audition

• Give yourself plenty of time to do everything (i.e. get up early, have a leisurely meal, arrive early to the audition)
• Avoid over-practicing, which may cause nerve problems and fatigue
• Warm up well and practice audition material under tempo
• At the site, warm up alone and don’t listen to other players
• Play to your own standards; don’t try to guess how the committee would like something performed
• Take some risks; communicate the music’s message
• Maintain a positive appearance even if you do not think you played well
• Evaluate the audition experience