Audition Formats
Open audition: Some organizations have an open (cattle-call) audition where the organization invites a large number of candidates, sometimes up to 150 people -- for 1 position. Usually, 8-15 players are advanced to the second round. In a typical final round, 2-4 players are advanced and asked to play a solo and excerpts within the section.
Pre-screened audition: Pre-screened auditions are becoming more and more common in today's military band audition circuit, especially in U.S. Army Bands. Generally, the pre-screening process is the most efficient way to select a candidate who is musically qualified AND fit for military service. For a pre-screened audition, it is essential to create a professional-quality recording that accurately represents yourself as an artist in the best possible way. Once you have been notified that you advanced, you will have attend MEPS to ensure that you are able to join your perspective service. Because of this process, there are usually only 8-15 people that attend the live audition. The live audition may consist of 2-3 rounds of excerpts, sight-reading, a solo, and section playing in finals.
*The organization will typically re-imburse the candidate's airfare and hotel expenses if a candidate is invited after a pre-screened round.*
