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Sight reading preparation time
In an orchestral audition where sight reading is required, how long is generally acceptable to read through the music before playing? My intuition says 30-40 seconds and have been training so, but I don't want to cut myself short of precious time if 60 seconds is also perfectly acceptable. Tweet
Replies (2)
Don't spend very much time just looking at it. That will annoy the panel. They might have 20 candidates to get through in one day.
Look at the key signature, the time signature, the tempo marking, then just start. If you recognize the piece, don't choose a faster than standard tempo.
Cold sight-reading at an audition used to be more common. I only had to do it once (L.A. Phil.) It tests for the reality of being in a full-time pro orchestra. Sight-reading skill is essential. There is very little rehearsal time and individual practice time is also limited.
Announced excerpts is of course different. You have already practiced them, you might be able to use your own parts. You might memorize the most common standard excerpts.