To study music at the university, college, or conservatory level, your admission depends in part on an audition. And to prepare for that, you’ll want to start getting ready during your sophomore year of high school. Before outlining what you need to compete, here’s some wise advice, courtesy of Mimi Zweig, professor of violin at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and also a member of the school’s audition committee.

Audition Tips
1Select a repertoire within your skill range, so you play beautifully from beginning to end. Audition committees do not expect you to know everything—teaching you everything is the school’s job.

2 Practice your repertoire so it becomes second nature.

Ignoring point No. 1, Zweig says, is the most common mistake students make, and it can prevent you from achieving point No. 2.

“We often accept a young person who shows a lot of potential, but maybe hasn’t had the opportunity to develop that potential,” Zweig says. “We’re looking for students who show aptitude and are dedicated to learning. Be sure you select a repertoire you can achieve. And don’t worry. The audition committee is trained to hear your potential.”

Stacia Spencer, senior lecturer in string pedagogy at Northwestern School of Music and a private teacher experienced in helping students prepare their audition repertoire, agrees completely. “Selecting music outside your reach is asking for disaster,” she says. “This is not the time to show off. Trust me, if you play something beyond your true capabilities, the audition team will only hear mistakes. On the other hand, if you select an easier piece but something you play beautifully, the audition team will only hear your terrific vibrato, your musicality, and your skill. Then the committee begins thinking about where they can take you . . . as their student. This is a good place to be.

“It’s where you want to be!”