Pro Tips- Auditions
Auditions are fun!
I’m getting back on the musical horse, a little ahead of my own schedule, but none too soon. Whether you are joining an existing band, or trying people out for your own band, at some point you got to do an audition.
I’ve done three auditions in the last month, and I’ve also been involved in auditioning potential band members. There are a couple of things you need to be aware of when you’re prepping an audition, because trust me– you DO want to prep.
Prep a list of 3-6 songs you’re going to perform during the audition.
You don’t want to be on the hook for thirty songs, and you don’t want to hang around for two hours if you aren’t feeling the group. If you can’t get a specific list of songs nailed down, at least get the usual set list the band works from. Make sure you have a couple ofthese songs down really well, and be sure to work them into the session.
Work your material backwards and forwards
Don’t show up and start asking what chords are in the song, or what key a song is in. Seriously- I’ve seen this happen, and it never ends well. I think it’s okay to bring a lyric sheet with you if you need it for vocals, but don’t expect them to provide the lyrics for you.
Make sure your gear is working, and know what you need to bring
Treat it like a mini-gig (read some of my previous tips here) and make sure you have what you need. But you probably don’t want to bring every effect pedal, two guitars, or every cymbal you own. Bring the essentials, know how to work with your gear.
Be honest
Be honest about your musical interests and goals. Be honest about how often you want to practice, how often you want to play out, and anything else that comes up. If you’re not up front now, it will come out later. If you can’t stand country music, don’t act like it’s cool with you if 2/3 of the set list has a southern accent. Don’t hang with a group that parties too much for your taste. Don’t hang with a band that’s full of people you don’t like. Don’t waste everyone’s time and effort- putting a band together and getting tight takes a lot of work.
You’re auditioning them, too
Sure, you’re there to show them what you can do. But you have to pay attention to what they bring to the table, as well.
Pay Attention to Intangibles
Getting along with each other, having similar interests and goals, being on the same page musically? Those are obvious… But what about rehearsal space, gear and equipment, booking ability, regular gigs, a local fan base, free studio time, or all the groupies you can lay hands on? Any of these things might be what seals the deal for you, or for them.
Be Confident. Don’t Be Desperate.
Know your abilities, do the best job that you can, and have fun. Don’t ask how you’re doing every five minutes. If you make a mistake, acknowledge it and then stop mentioning it. Don’t act like this audition is your last chance at the big time.
