I do not know Berklee auditions specifically, but I would guess they would prefer to hear some music executed well, rather than some show-off in a material which does not have much musical information. In an audition, they would look into the principle components of music, i.e. melody, harmony, and rhythm. Of course, this expandes into improvisation, playing comfortably at different tempos, and feeling at home in standard forms. Therefore, I think it is usually a good idea to pick:
- a 12-bar blues (preferably a Bird blues like "Blues for Alice" which is a bit more complex than a straight-forward blues);
- a relatively up-tempo rhythm-changes like "Oleo"; and
- a ballad with interesting chord changes like "Blue in Green" and a relatively odd form.
The first two would give the impression to the auditors that you have control over some common forms (blues and rhythm-changes) and being able to company and solo over a fast-tempo song would confirm endurance and dexterity. The ballad would assure that you are a patient musician with good functionality and a twist for being able to re-direct the music.
Berklee admits pretty much everybody anyway, but by playing some funk/rock stuff, you might not be able to show your full potential and get some funding. I would more go the jazz route, of course, if you are comfortable in that, even if you do not like jazz much. If you are not familiar with the songs I recommend above (or similar stuff), I would recommend that you study with someone who is good in this prior to your audition.
Just my two cents... Good luck,
Alper
Quote:
Originally Posted by pbass337  I want to get into Berklee College of Music on electric bass and I've been stressing about audition piece selection. I play a Fender P-bass American Standard so I only have four strings 21 frets so there's some limitations. My favorite solo bass stuff is Jaco and Wooten but it's a little bit out of my league right now. I'd love to hear song suggestions that are funky/rockish. |
