Concerned? Yes, actually.

April 13, 2009 at 2:01 AM

I am a junior in high school, intending to major in music ed.

Tonight, I brought up the topic of school visits and auditions. I have always been adamant in wanting to visit and trial-lesson in the spring,and tonight, wish granted! I will be visiting two schools the weekend of May 9, and hopefully for trial lessons and the whole kit and kaboodle. I contacted the teacher at one, and when I navigated to page of the other one, suddenly got very nervous. Actually, that's too mild of a word---- try scared. I thought to myself, my audition repertoire sounds like crap! As soon as this teacher hears me trying to get through this music, they'll say this kid is terrible and could never be good enough! Couple that with my absolute lack of practice time in the week, I just don't feel like contacting them for a trial lesson.

I know that auditioning for music school is about looking for potential. I'm just worried when I try teachers out, they'll think I won't have any.

From Stephen Brivati
Posted on April 13, 2009 at 4:01 AM

Greetings,

rather than panicking think through the permutations. It`s a win win situation. If you have potential and they can`T se eit then they can`t teach so who cares? If they are, which is actually the case, capable of seeing through to a persons talent then they will so it really isn`t worth worrying about. Just play for yourself and havea good time. You love music right?

Right!

Cheers,

Buri

From Michael Divino
Posted on April 13, 2009 at 2:42 PM

Thanks, Buri. After talking to a friend currently in music school, she said having faith will put you in the school that's right for you.

From Anne-Marie Proulx
Posted on April 13, 2009 at 11:10 PM

I have no audition experience but from comments I have heard here, the teachers also want someone with an incredible will/ professional attitude. In addition, you surely have strong points (nice vibrato? sound? spicattos? detache?) So be sure to show very well at least one of these things. You know, the elder players made their trademarks because they sounded unique, not like everyone else and your strenghs can become your trademarks... and I don't say to do a show but try to look serious and at the same time passionated and professional. I know it is more serious than that but on youtube we see many very average kids (I don't refer about you I don't know your playing and couldn't judge you anyway!) and some of these kids look very "studently", while others look like mini pros in their attitude/body language/expressions and even if the playing is ordinairy we are far more impressed by those who have this attitude. Also, I knew a friend who cried through her audition and another who was talking to much because nervous (try to not do that, it looks kind or weird). Just my humble two cents. Yes it must be very difficult but attitude is really important and if ever things went wrong, they will have respect for you because they will see that you were a serious/good hearted player and not just a little cool who don't care about anything and that they think wouldn't even deserve a try in their school... I don't know if this helps, anyway, all the best for you and I really wish you good luck!

At least, if you meet these teachers, you already look serious, concerned about their school and ...an interested student. It's already admirable to just try to do an audition in my opinion!

Anne-Marie

From Michael Divino
Posted on April 14, 2009 at 12:19 AM

Thanks guys!

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Concerned? Yes, actually.

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