How to prepare for a high school military band audition?

I'm in the band at my high school and they're doing auditions for the military band for next year. I really want to make it, so any advice or learning resources would be greatly appreciated. If anyone's been through auditions like these before, what can I expect?

To prepare for a military band audition in high school, you would want to focus on several key areas:

1. Repertoire:

The pieces you prepare should highlight your strengths as a musician. If you are given a list of required pieces, make sure to practice them regularly. You should aim to know your music so well that you can confidently perform even under pressure.

2. Sight-Reading:

Sight-reading is often a part of military band auditions. Improving your sight-reading skills will increase your confidence and overall performance. A great way to improve sight reading is by trying to play new pieces of music daily, which can be found in music books or online databases.

3. Scales and Technique:

Make sure you are comfortable with all major and minor scales as well as any technical requirements such as arpeggios, double-tongue, or alternate fingerings. These are often key components of auditions and demonstrate your technical proficiency on your instrument.

4. Timing and Rhythm:

Ensure that you have a firm grasp of time signatures and rhythm patterns. One strategy is practicing with a metronome to develop rhythm steadiness and precision, which are crucial in a military band setting.

5. Tone and Quality:

Last but not least, pay attention to your tone quality. Your tone is like your musical fingerprint and being able to produce a clear and robust sound can set you apart in an audition setting.

In terms of what to expect, it can vary but often includes:

- Prepared pieces: You’ll likely have to perform a piece or selection of pieces that showcase your capabilities. Choose pieces that challenge you but still allow you to play confidently and musically.

- Sight-reading: Expect to be given a short piece to sight-read, likely representing a variety of rhythms, articulations, and potentially in a less common key signature.

- Scales and technique: Some auditions require you to perform select scales, perhaps even arpeggios, and demonstrate certain techniques relevant to your instrument.

Remember, mental preparation is just as important as practicing your instrument. Get a good rest before your audition, arrive early to warm up, and bring water to stay hydrated. Have a calm mindset and visualize your success.