audition piece options

I think my daughter did Hayden, then Viotti 22, now finishing up de Beriot 9, starting some solo Bach, and will be taking up Mozart 4 next. She will likely play one of these for her pyramid audition in the spring (she’s in 7th grade).

My understanding of auditioning for all state (and youth orchestras in general) in this region is that they want to see fast passage work, and ability to play high positions well. If that’s true for where you live, choose accordingly. Obviously, a lower difficulty piece, played to perfection, is better than a so-so difficult piece.

The Scene de Ballet would make a great audition piece, but he first rule is to play something you can play really well. The Haydn G Major is something you should be able to "hit out of the park" if you have already completed Mozart No. 3 to a reasonable standard. The little Kuechler cadenza at the end of the first movement is not that hard, but it'll be impressive if you can really nail the double stops. The cadenza you learned for the Mozart 3 (probably Franko or Flesch) is longer and much harder.

I've listened to a lot of auditions where students come in with the idea that the committee is more interested in hearing difficult pieces than individual proficiency with playing the instrument. Yet, I would score more highly a well-executed Mozart 3 over an out-of-tune and rhythmically flaccid Bruch Concerto any day of the week.

Paul, chances are pretty good that there are limitations on the solo that were not articulated here. It is likely in addition to scales and excerpts.

As a consequence, I’d say choose the one that you like most, right now. The piece you enjoy most, musically. This will be the best booster for your motivation and musical expression. You will have the most fun practicing it.