How Do We Take An Audition? Options

[Cosmin Lupu]

Yesterday, I had a short talk with our friend MonkeyDAthos who is currently preparing himself for an important audition so, I thought I would talk a little about this subject. Musician etiquette and behavior in such occasions is crucial for getting the gig so, let's see what would be the steps that won't necessarily guarantee your absolute success, but will contribute in a great amount to it and will place you on the preferential list in any given situation.

So, the scenario goes like this - the contact has been made and you are being asked for an audition. It's regardless if they found your ad or if you found them. The contact has been made and the thing begins.

Who will you be playing with/ for?

Now, if the band is well known the better, but if you don't know them, try to find out as much as possible about them - their style, their names, their experience, every little detail that will matter. If they have an album out, go get it and when you will meet them, show that you know a lot of things about them. You will instantly get bonus points for the respect and admiration.

Being available

When they ask when it would be good for you - if it's a genre that you are experienced with and if you are somehow familiarized with their music, tell them that anytime would be good for you and underline that you are available and interested, in that way.

Getting into the groove

If you are not familiar with their music and if you need time to understand and assimilate what they are playing, buy some time and prepare yourself. Meet them and try to get your hands on their music before the audition. Learn the songs exactly as they are recorded - this is a sign of being a pro - and also, try to learn some songs in the same genre, just to... get in the groove Be well prepared - better learn 2 songs spotless rather than 4 in a faulty way.

Belonging

Usually, if you are into jazz, chances are you won't be auditioning for a heavy metal band, but if this is the case... Come dressed in such a way that you will belong You can be a hell of a bass player but if you don't fit with the guys they will choose a less prepared fellow which fits the scenario

Timing

By all means DO NOT BE LATE - if you are truly interested in taking the audition. Here's how they read the signs:

Being 30 minutes early - they'll say you are a pro and you are really interested
Being on time - you are a pro but not really that interested
Being late - not a pro and not even interested - chances are, they'll pick up a less prepared fellow who came on time

Assets

You may be a good player, but that's just one part of the whole package. People will be generally looking for:

- your professionalism - a lot of things to deal with here, from your timing, the way you talk, the way you react, the way you think, not being a showoff, what gear you have and the way you treat it... This will make the subject of another thread - a whole one!
- what sort of a human being you are - don't be arrogant, make them feel good and laugh, supporting the band and being involved.

These are the most important things one should take into consideration when wanting to join a band, so how many of these can you offer at this point? What do you feel you should be working on?

Cosmin

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