Posted by Bill on May 18, 1999 at 19:56:16:
In Reply to: Selecting Audition Material posted by Gillian on May 18, 1999 at 19:10:37:
I had a similar dilemma come up recently. I was auditioning, and still am auditioning, for a couple local, (paid per service) orchestras. I have worked on the Dvorak for a good year or close to it. Still, it wasn't near the level that I would feel comfortable with when playing it for others, ie- not that good. BUT, I know the Haydn C. I feel I can play this piece as good as anything I can play. You mentioned the 1st suite, for me, it's the 3rd. I have constantly worked on it for 2 years or so and only just now do I feel sort of 'comfortable' playing all movements. For me, I only want to play what I can play best. Now, with excerpts, that's different since they are dicated to you. With excerpts, you gotta learn them and make them some of 'your best stuff.' It's not an option. I would much rather hear a performance of a less techincally challenging piece with much musicality and great intonation, then a virtuoso piece with less of the aforementioned. As a listener and people, please comment, it doesn't matter what piece I hear, I want it to be right, hard or not. I think you should play what you play BEST when given the option.