Posted by Ken Herrick on May 23, 2001 at 06:49:12:
In Reply to: Audition Tape Rep posted by Chuck on May 22, 2001 at 22:46:50:
I think there might have been some confusion on the part of some who have replied to your post. Some seem to think you want to make a tape now and keep it in case an audition tape round comes up so that you can just pop it in the mail and be first in. The way I read it is that you want to know what repertoire to prepare so you are ready to make a tape if and when the time comes:is that what you have in mind?
Anyway, get the Pokorny CD of excerpts for starters. Once you have "mastered" all the parts on it you will have a good start. Then get all the excerpt books you can and do a lot of listening to good recordings so you see just how the parts fit into the full performance. AND, find a good teacher who has the experience to cover the repertoire with you, while keeping in mind that your all around playing development must come before any attempt to win a pro gig. A word to the wise, do not get in too big a hurry to audition for a job in the big league if you are not really absolutely on top of things. A "bad" audition can start the wrong sort of reputation which can be hard to get away from.
IF you are looking for excerpts to do on a tape for say, college admission or something else where the parts to be played are not specified, make sure you only send the very best items you can do. If in doubt, leave it out. Also look at the articles on auditions which you can find on this web site.
DO play all the pick-up jobs such as community orchestras etc. that you can, even if it is boring as all H..... to listen to scratchy strings week in and week out. Also play in as wide a variety of groups as you can and do some solo spots when and where ever you can to build up a habit of good performance.
As has been suggested elsewhere also tape your playing with the idea of listening critically as it can be a real learning experience. Have fun!!!!!!!!!