A number of music festivals (like Tanglewood and PMF) offer the option of live & taped auditions. With so many good players auditioning in person, I wonder if tapes are given the same consideration as live auditions? Does anyone here have experience being accepted somewhere via tape when live auditions were an option, too?

I imagine most festivals try to give tapes equal consideration. However, in my experience with these festivals, I think a live audition is the way to go if it's at all possible. I personally have never had success with taped auditions. Of course, it's possible that I just make bad tapes, but I think playing well in a live audition often makes a stronger impression than even a very good tape.

I would have to agree with flute3000. If it's at all possible to take the live audition, I would do that. Yes, it's expensive but it shows a considerable amount of effort on your part and is also great practice for real auditions (traveling, playing in a strange place with the pressure on etc.). While I'm sure most festivals try to be fair in giving the same attention to tapes, recordings will never have the same affect as a well played live audition. I would make a tape only if you absolutely cannot make the live audition.

One could argue, though, that if you don't play well consistantly and you feel your chances are better and more controlled by making a tape, you'll have a better shot.

I would be curious to see the acceptance percentages of taped applicants acceptance vs. live. I'd definately have my money on live being accepted more often. Personally, I've never liked making tapes because it's so hard to be satisfied with the final result and I end up overanalyzing every little detail.

Ohh, haha. To specifically address your question, I have never had a tape accepted and don't remember too many other people who have either.

How about orchestras that do a pre-selection (audition) by tape?

quote:

Originally posted by chibi:
How about orchestras that do a pre-selection (audition) by tape?

What about an orchestra that accepts and hires based solely on recording submittals?

I just received a job alert for section trumpet with the Des Moines Metro Opera from MyAuditions.

There are several other positions posted today as well and these auditions are being held exclusively by CD only. It appears that the hiring decisions will be decided based on these CD recordings.

Des Moines Metro Opera is a rare situation. Given its location, I honestly don't think very many people would show up for a live audition for a job that pays $500/wk for only 5 weeks.

quote:

Originally posted by RNesmith:

quote:

Originally posted by chibi:
How about orchestras that do a pre-selection (audition) by tape?

What about an orchestra that accepts and hires based solely on recording submittals?

I just received a job alert for section trumpet with the Des Moines Metro Opera from MyAuditions.

There are several other positions posted today as well and these auditions are being held exclusively by CD only. It appears that the hiring decisions will be decided based on these CD recordings.

My experience with tapes for orchestra positions has been hit or miss. When I say my experiences I am including some friends that I know of as well as my own. I think it depends on the orchestra and if they sincerely listen to all of the tapes. I think (emphasis on think) that some listen to the tapes based on the resume...but again it has varied. I know of some great musicians submitting tapes, but the quality of recording was poor and that probably didn't help...I also know of someone who made a K*@# A@# tape in his closet with a glorified boom box (it was the 80's) and was invited to the audition of one of the big orchestras (can't remember which one...getting old).

SO.....my advice.....if you think you can play great - make the tape....don't go broke on the studio, a mini-disc can suffice. If you have the option of going w/out a tape - do it, don't think about saving money - would you try to save money by playing on a cheaper instrument???this is a job you are trying to get right? Anyway, if they are listening for sound quality and/or colors on a taped round - they are stupid. We all know that there is no way to capture any instruments true sound via any recording. I know this sounds harsh, but I have strong feeling about this. In addition, if I really want the job and they require a tape - I have always done it and suggest you do the same. Its kinda like saying....I don't want to play in the Chicago Symphony because its cold in Chicago in the winter.

W2