5 Tips to Nail Your College Music Audition
It’s January of 2024, which marks the beginning of college audition season!
College auditions are an exciting yet nerve-wracking endeavor for aspiring performers. Whether you're a musician, actor, dancer, or any other kind of artist, the audition process is a big step towards getting into the college programs you’re interested in. This blog will guide you through the important aspects of preparing for college auditions, managing nerves, selecting the right attire, crafting an impressive video audition, and ensuring you leave a lasting impression with a thoughtful follow-up.
Preparation is Key
Before diving into the audition process, thorough preparation is essential. Research each college's specific requirements, understand the expectations of the audition panel, and familiarize yourself with the repertoire or material you'll be presenting. Create a schedule that allows for consistent and focused practice, giving yourself ample time to refine your skills and polish your pieces.
Don’t forget to learn all of your major and minor scales and arpeggios! 🙂
Managing Nerves
Nervousness is a natural part of the audition process. To combat stage fright, try the following techniques:
Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves before and during the audition.
Visualization can be powerful; picture yourself performing confidently and successfully.
Perform in front of friends, family, or even a mirror to simulate the audition environment.
Parents, you’re probably nervous too! Waiting outside the audition room while your child is auditioning can be almost just as anxiety-inducing as auditioning yourself. Try practicing some of the breathing techniques, or find a way to distract yourself to keep the nerves at bay.
REMEMBER: the faculty that are hearing your audition are not looking for perfection. (If you are a perfect musician, then what are you doing applying to college??) They want to see that you have done your best to prepare your pieces and have the potential to get even better in college.
Choosing the Right Attire
Dress appropriately for your audition. You don’t need to wear a formal ball gown or tuxedo; rather, opt for attire that complements the style of your performance while adhering to any specific guidelines provided by the college. Ensure your clothing allows for ease of movement and doesn't distract from your presentation.
Once you’ve chosen your outfit, practice performing in it! Get used to how the clothes feel while you’re performing, and make adjustments if it doesn’t feel comfortable.
Crafting a Great Video Audition
In an era where virtual auditions and video submissions have become commonplace, creating a compelling video is essential. Here are a few tips to make a top-notch audition video:
Use a high-quality camera and microphone to capture clear audio and video. If you don’t own one, see if a music teacher at school or your private teacher has one you can borrow.
Your phone can also make a good recording!
Select a well-lit, uncluttered space as your recording environment.
Tailor your video to meet the college's requirements, adhering to time limits and content specifications.
Film multiple takes and choose the one that best showcases your skills and personality.
Check out Central Michigan University’s video on how to create your audition video for more tips and tricks, and hear from faculty about what they’re looking for.
Following Up with the College
After completing your audition, it's crucial to leave a positive and lasting impression.
Send a thank-you email to the faculty who heard your audition expressing your gratitude for the opportunity.
Mention specific aspects of the college or program that resonated with you during the audition.
If necessary, inquire about the timeline for results and any additional steps in the admission process. You can also reach out to your admission counselor at each school for this information.
Reiterate your enthusiasm for joining the college community.
Completing your college auditions is a significant step towards realizing your artistic aspirations. With thorough preparation, effective stress management, appropriate attire, a stellar video audition, and a thoughtful follow-up, you can navigate the audition process with confidence. Remember, each audition is an opportunity to showcase your unique talents and passion, so embrace the experience and let your authentic self shine through. Good luck and break a leg!
Not working with me yet? Feeling stressed about your college auditions? Let’s chat.
