Instrumental Ensemble Auditions
Kent State's Bands and Orchestra are open to all Kent State students regardless of major!
Spring 2019 Instrumental Ensemble Audition Information
Audition Dates: January 12 and 13
Woodwind, Brass, and Percussion:
If you wish to audition for bands/orchestra, please download the excerpts and submit your contact information so we can let you know when the auditions will be scheduled.
Please contact Dr. Jesse Leyva, Director of Bands, if you have any questions or need any assistance with the audition sign-up form at jleyva@kent.edu.
Strings:
If you wish to audition, please download the string excerpts to prepare for your instrument and submit your contact information so we let you know when the audition sign-ups open.
Please contact Dr. Jungho Kim, Director of Orchestra, if you have any questions or need any assistance with scheduling your audition at jkim73@kent.edu.
Audition Advice
Please keep in mind the following:
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