Junior Session Audition Recording Tips
Basic Information | Description | Application |
Recording Tips | 2009 Faculty and Staff

This information should answer some of your questions about preparing a recording for your Kinhaven Audition.

What kind of recording? We accept CDs, VHS cassettes and DVDs. Please, no fancy DATs or unusual technology! Recordings that need to be played in a computer or in a camera are not always compatible with our equipment. We prefer video recordings (VHS and DVDs) because they allow us to see you playing your instrument. Alternatively, you may send us an email with a URL to a video of yourself that you have posted on YouTube. Please do not send us an email with an audio or video file attached; our technological infrastructure is not designed to accept large attachments. If you wish to submit an MP3 of your audio recording, you must post it on a website that we can easily access once you've provided a URL and login and password (if necessary) to us by email. Once again, please do not send us your MP3 file attached to an email.

What about quality of recording? We do not expect professional level recordings. Our trained ears can forgive home-style fidelity. However, be sure that you listen to or watch all of it so that you can be sure that it is flattering and that elements such as vibrato are apparent. If possible, listen to it with your teacher.

What piece should I play? Play what you are confident about and familiar with. Avoid auditioning with a new piece. Recordings should not be more than 6 months old. If you plan to play a slow piece, be sure to also include a piece with contrasting tempo

Should I include scales? Please include 2 scales of 2 or 3 octaves.

Should I play with piano on my recording? We do not require piano accompaniment, but it is advisable. You will always sound much better with piano, and in an audition situation, give yourself every benefit. Listen to the recording to be sure that the balance of sound favors your instrument, not the piano.

Should I play a duet with my teacher or with another student? We require a solo selection. Duets with the same instruments are not acceptable. A chamber music selection may be added.

Should I talk on my recording? A short introduction of yourself and your repertoire is appreciated. Please, no extensive autobiographies!

If my sister or brother is also auditioning, can we use the same recording? No. Please send us two separate recordings. We treat each applicant separately.

If I am auditioning on more than one instrument, can I put both on the same recording? No. Because we often send your recording to Kinhaven's faculty member who teaches your instrument, we require separate recordings for separate instruments.

Will I get my recording back? We will return it only if you supply a package, addressed and stamped.

Should I send my recording registered mail? No. This isn’t necessary.