Where Do Violists Learn How to Audition?
I was talking to a freelance violist the other day, and she mentioned "where do people learn how to take auditions? Do most people learn this in college?"
This is something I think about a lot. There are a few great programs out there like the New World Symphony, but aside from those, most people have to search out the information however they can find it.
Personally, I had some of the world's greatest teachers, but we didn't spend much time on auditions—I had to learn how to manage those on my own. It shocked me when I first realized that being a good violist wasn't the same thing as being a good auditioner.
Getting a good orchestra job is an expensive, heartbreaking process for most musicians. There aren't many auditions available per year, and it's hard to fit them into a busy schedule. More importantly, you have to make sure you can AFFORD to take them, since most of them require big plane trips and hotel stays.
The reason I spend so much time talking about auditions is that I want to help more violists get the jobs they dream about WITHOUT the years of heartbreaking auditions and travel expenses. I want them to understand the challenge BEFORE they spend years failing. Basically, I want to help them make their musical lives easier and more rewarding.
If all of my audition talk seems a little like overkill to you, then we really need to talk. If you wonder why I say similar things over and over, you're exactly one of the people who need my message.
I've got some time on my schedule to chat with aspiring violists like yourself. Before my schedule closes up, book a time. It's free, it's short, and it might wind up giving you the missing piece you didn't even know you needed.
Happy practicing,
Mick @ The Viola Pro