Whenever I start lessons with a new student, I ask them about their goals and find out what ways they want to improve.
One of my students started lessons a few months ago, and said that he had a MEH audition and as a result he was playing the third part most of the time and it was boring.
Preparing for the next audition is an obvious and worthy goal, but we didn't know when it would be and what would be on it. On top of that, if we were to just practice audition material week after week, that would get old.
By the next audition, he improved so much that he is now playing first. (Yay!) So what did we do?
Establish a routine. He may not complete the entire routine every time he practices, but he knows that there are a handful of areas that he has to address during practice and keep track of his progress. To make this routine visible and tangible, we have a practice folder where we write down the exercises and assignments.
Work on range and endurance. Many beginner players assume that they are stuck with the range that they have at that moment and don't realize how quickly you can improve your sound, range, flexibility and endurance simply by including a few exercises in their warm-up. During lessons we spent time with long tones, flexibility exercises, and doing playing music that allowed him to play using his full range.
Scales mixed with ear training and theory. Scales are important, and are a part of auditions. I like to practice scales during every lesson by choosing a song and playing it in every key. The students learn to play by ear and they have to really know their scales for this routine to work. It opens the door to more higher-level conversations about theory.
Building repertoire. We're just getting started, but it's good to have a few solos and songs that will be a challenge that the student could perform with an accompanist in the near future.
Sight-reading. There are lots of duet books and song books that are perfect for this.
Listening. Every lesson I introduce my students to at least one new artist or recording to listen to.
I was thrilled to hear that my student had moved up in the ranks in his band, because that gives him the opportunity to feel more challenged during band and have a better time. If you want to feel more prepared for your next audition, I recommend working in these key areas as well.
If you would like to schedule a lesson with me, send an email to amanda@amandajosanchez.com.