Guild Auditions 2019

Preparation, follow-through and good manners will set you up for success in almost any endeavor. While this article is specifically tailored with the Studio’s upcoming Auditions in mind, there are several principles that will prove helpful for almost any performance setting.

 

The real value of these auditions is in the doing — setting a goal, working hard and following through.

 

The National Piano Guild Auditions are a tool for improvement and personal development. The numeric score has limited value and doesn’t necessarily track from year to year; scores vary by judge. The real value of these auditions is in the doing — setting a goal, working hard and following through.

PREPARATION

  • Students should be playing through their pieces, including scales and cadences at least once a day, 5-6 days a week.   

  • As with recitals, students need a good night's sleep the night before audition.

  • Being well-hydrated helps for a clear head as does a small, protein-rich snack before performing.

  • Have performance clothes and sheet music prepared and ready the day before auditions.

  • Students should bring a book to read or something quiet to do so they stay occupied but don’t disturb the other auditions.

 

Preparation is key to a successful performance and minimizing performance anxiety.

 

LOCATION

Auditions will be held at the studio/home of Arlene Ferrolino: 3094 Buckingham Road, Glendale.  

SHEET MUSIC

  • Please be sure the pieces your student will be performing are in a music book or sheet music.  Photocopies are NOT ACCEPTED. You will not be allowed to audition with photocopies.

  • The music must be numbered and marked with a Post-it to make it easy for the judge to find each piece.

  • Number the measures if they are not already numbered.

  • At the beginning of the audition, your student will hand the music to the Guild judge and will play from memory.  At the end of the audition, the music will be given back to your student.

  • If you are uncertain about any of these guidelines or don't have a hard copy of the music, please let me know.  

DRESS CODE

  • Although there is no dress code set by the Guild for auditions, students should be aware that what they wear sends a message about who they are and their attitude toward the performance. Look sharp.  Be sharp.

  • The dress code for my Studio is no jeans, no shorts and absolutely NO FLIP FLOPS.  

  • Students should practice playing in their performance clothes and shoes.

  • Do not wear rings, jangling bracelets or nail polish. Nails should be short.

 

Show appreciation at every opportunity…respect your fellow-musicians.

 

GOOD MANNERS

  • Show appreciation at every opportunity, especially to the judge; say “thank you”!

  • If you don't know what to do, just ask.

  • Please remain quiet during other students' auditions. It is a sign of respect for your fellow-musicians.

RESULTS

Results will be shared privately with parents and students as soon as they are available, typically the same day as audition. Certificates will be presented at the recital.

© 2019 by Debbie Guidolin






Debbie Guidolin