Recent graduates from our Performance Program gave us their top tips on preparing for auditions. Hear from our instrumental and choral graduates below, and review ensemble-specific audition requirements here.
Instrumental Auditions
"Perform a piece that you really connect with— it takes a lot of skill not to just play the notes and the markings, but to emotionally connect with a piece." — Ruka Adachi, flutist in University Symphony Orchestra
"Practice performing! Imagine yourself being in the audition room and train yourself to play under nerves." — Calvin Dai, violist in University Symphony Orchestra
"Practice your sight reading and prepare pieces for your skill level! Don't stress yourself with something overly difficult or something that will take 5 minutes to learn — it's important to practice but to keep a good balance (and have fun of course)!" — Elena Gdula, saxophonist in Wind Ensemble
"Play what you already know so that you're pretty comfortable. Auditions can be nerve wracking, so the familiarity of a piece can really help you shine, even if you're nervous. I would also just take a few deep breaths and do whatever helps you relax beforehand. Don't overthink it! You're a better player than you know :)" — Jakob Gilleylen, violist in Chamber Orchestra
"Try to enjoy what you’re playing—letting the music speak through you can be more powerful than chasing perfection." — Guillermina Marto, violinist in University Symphony Orchestra
"Don’t stress! Prepare the pieces that showcase your strengths, and practice over the summer, because auditions are right at the beginning of the year." — Eva Youel Page, violinist in Chamber Orchestra
Choral Auditions
"Spend your summer brushing up on sight reading, as that is something that can be a bit nerve-wracking. And don't be afraid to make mistakes! My audition was by no means perfect, but trying your best will go a long way." — Alexandria Porter, Motet Choir member
"Pick a piece that shows off your range, you feel comfortable with, and just enjoy the experience. Really grounding yourself in the moment while singing helps so much with being expressive and connecting to whomever it is you’re sharing your voice with." — Sofia Sanchez-Urbina, Women's Ensemble member
"If you're submitting an online audition, take your time and use different devices to hear the backing music and record yourself." — Martha MacLaren, Women's Ensemble member
"Be confident in yourself and trust your ears! :)" — Crystina Windham, University Chorus member