Should You Provide Your Judge with Your Music During an Audition?

Performing in auditions can be a nerve-wracking experience for many aspiring artists. One common question that often arises is whether you should provide your judge with a copy of the music you'll be performing. While the answer isn't always clear-cut, there are some key points to consider.

The Convention: Keep Your Music to Yourself

For the majority of auditions, the music you're performing is typically only seen by the pianist or ensemble who will be providing accompaniment. This is the standard practice in most auditions, and it's a good idea to follow this convention. Giving your judge a copy of your music can come off as presumptuous or unnecessary, potentially damaging your chances of success in the audition. Auditoriums often have a strict no-sharing policy to ensure a fair and level playing field for all performers.

Why You May Want to Give Your Judge Your Music

However, there are certain circumstances where providing your judge with a copy of your music might be warranted:

If the Judge is Also the Music Director: Some auditions are conducted by judges who are also the music director. In such cases, they might want to review the music to confirm certain details or to prepare a different approach with you. If this is the case, you should provide your music, but ensure you do so in a respectful and professional manner. If You Are Performing a New Work: If you're performing a work that the judge might not be familiar with, providing the music could be beneficial. This helps the judge familiarize themselves with the piece, which could lead to a more informed and thorough evaluation.

How to Approach the Situation Professionally

If you decide to give your judge a copy of your music, it's crucial to do so in a professional and non-intrusive manner. Here are some tips:

Be Concise: Provide a clear, concise, and organized copy of your music. Avoid overwhelming the judge with extra notes or annotations that aren't necessary for the audition. Timing: Hand over the music at an appropriate time. If the judge isn't the music director, it's generally best to provide the music after the audition, during the debriefing or feedback session. Respect the Judge's Decision: Remember that it's ultimately the judge's prerogative to decide whether or not to review your music. Ensure you are not coming across as demanding or pushing the envelope unreasonably.

In Conclusion

While there may be rare instances where providing your judge with your music is beneficial, it's generally best to keep your music to yourself unless it's explicitly requested. Professionalism and respect for the audition process are key. If you're ever unsure, it's best to err on the side of caution and save the music for later review or discussion.