Klarinet Archive - Posting 000668.txt from 2003/02

From: "CLARK FOBES " <reedman@-----.com>
Subj: [kl] "Adapting" for an audition
Date: Sat, 22 Feb 2003 13:26:33 -0500

I will make this one last post on the subject and then leave it alone.

Fernando Silveira suggested getting to know how other players in the
section play and sound in order to succeed and Peter Stoll asked a relevant
question about players in the orchestra for which he is auditioning.

I absolutely believe that trying to second guess what the committee or
section will like in sound or style is antithetical to the mind set one
MUST have to do well in an audition. You must BELIEVE in your sound and
your musicianship and artistry. To approach an audition or performing from
a position of trying to "adapt" is artistically destructive.

Did Picasso try to adapt his painting to the prevailing style of Fauvism?
NO!!! It was his distinct personality that caused people to embrace the
unusual beauty of his work. I am not saying that you should project
something stylistically as a clarinetist that is completely outside the
norm of orchestral playing, but don't be afraid to be an individual. It may
be that the conductor is looking for a different sound than what he
currently hears in the section. He may also be looking for someone that is
not afraid to express themselves soloistically when necessary. How will he
or the committee know that you have the ability to rise above the norm if
you don't play with your own personality in the audition?

Be true to your own voice - it is the only way to live.

CLARK FOBES
reedman@-----.com
Why Wait? Move to EarthLink.

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