Auditioning advice?

[stratovani]

There's a band with an ad on CL looking for a bassist, and I'm thinking of auditioning for it. They're a pro band, looking to gig on a regular basis, with a MySpace page showing their next gig (in late Feb) and a selection of their material (all original music). I tried my hand playing to it and it doesn't seem too difficult for me. What I'm wondering is, does anyone have any advice regarding auditions and the auditioning process? I've never had to audition for anything in the past, all the bands I've played in have been guys getting together and forming bands.

[electracoyote]

Do a TB search, I've read several great threads on this subject.

Be prepared. Know the material like the back of your hand, or as well as possible in the time alloted. Have a good attitude. Ask a lot of questions about rehearsal policies, drug/alcohol/smoking policy. Ask about division of pay. Asking questions lets them know you're serious and can be very enlightening for you as well.

If you have your act together and can prove your value, this is actually a two-way audition. You want to be sure you're getting in with people you can work with and this is a good fit.

Good luck!

[DeluxeRed]

Dress for the part. Look sharp and professional. Be ready to start now. Be confident in your abilities, if not all of the material. Don't try to learn it all, see if they'll pick one or two of their originals for you to focus on and do well.

Act like you are sure you can do it, and do it well.

[LaklandBass]

electracoyote is absolutely right.
I was recently auditioning for multiple bands and knowing the material is very important for two reasons.
either A. theyll expect you to know it so this way youll look professional
or B. they wont expect you to know it all yet so you look awesome when you can hit the changes your first time out.

Also this is a piece of advice that ive used many times for both auditions and for job interviews.......
Now I dont want to sound cocky or have an ego but I know that I dont suck at bass. Im no victor wooten but since I dont pick bands that are out of my league I usually wind up being the more experienced player at auditions.
This is why I always mention in a very casual and conversational way that Im auditioning for multiple bands. Recently while at an audition I was asked when I could come out for a second/final jam session... I could have just said "friday". But instead I said "well I have an audition in the city on thrusday, so is friday cool for you?"
Electracoyote was absolutely right in saying that youre the one auditioning them just as much as they are you. Think about their situation.... they were probably playing out and/or writing a set and maybe even recording.... all of that usually comes to a halt when somebody leaves or gets fired. Believe me, they want to fill the spot.

[Stumbo]

Here are a few links to check out:
~Auditioning
1 For new band
2
Getting back in the game

Red flag stories
Hilarious/Bizarre audition stories
"Never got to audition"