Asking for additional feedback after an audition

[JimmyM]

I'd spit out the gum next time

[awakefie]

Originally Posted by A Strohman

I don't think you really need to go back to those guys to ask because I think you already know. Besides, them telling you "you're not there yet" is revealing enough on its face.

Follow Joe's advice in terms of your preparation for your next audition. No excuses, brotha, don't go into an audition with ready-made excuses to fail at your disposal (i.e. I had a cold while preparing, etc.) I think sometimes we can sabotage ourselves before we even set foot in the studio for an audition. Body language and overall confidence is a big part of landing gigs. If you have it in your head that you didn't prepare enough, I guarantee that will come across to the other guys in how you carry yourself during the audition.

Practice your tail off and good luck with the next audition.

This! and That! And good luck next time.

BTW, my .02, nothing to gain by asking. Just reading this thread I think you know where you fell down.

This!

[hernameisrio]

Aw, but I LIKE gum!

[ChrisB2]

My personal view? I would NOT ask.

You already know where you fell down. And that may not have been all there was to their decision. When you lose a gig, learn what you can from your own observation, redouble your resolve to work hard to earn your goals, but also remember that if it didn't work it wasn't supposed to. Just pick up, brush off, and go on.

No way to do this sans whiny.

[hernameisrio]

Yeah...I kinda missed my window anyway, it seems awkward to ask almost a week later. Live and learn. They DID say I have the look though. Hey, it's gotta count for something!

[jive1]

You can certainly ask, but I wouldn't expect a response since they don't really owe it to you. It can be simple like,
"Thanks for having me out. Sorry that it didn't work out. Not that you owe it to me, but in my quest to improve as a musician, I would appreciate any feedback that would help me improve. Best of luck in your search for a bassist."

I am usually appreciative when someone gives me feedback. It's always easier to let someone suck than to help them out, so if they offer that, I try to take it well. Personally, as a bandleader, I'd take a better perspective on a person who is genuinely trying to improve.

When auditioning others, I will always ask if they want some feedback. I've had some folks say no, which is fine. But, when someone accepts feedback and takes it well, it tells me that this is a person that I may be able to work with. The ones who don't take feedback are a nightmare to work with, regardless of skill level. Even if the person isn't going to work out, at least I gave them some feedback for improvement so it's not a total waste of time for us. I also rather make clear why it won't work, rather than blowing them off and keeping them guessing. Most people appreciate it, but there are those that rather not hear it, which is fine too.

[SBassman]

I personally wouldn't ask the band. It's very likely that they are unable to tell you something you don't know already.

If you want more guidance, I think you should ask a Teacher what you need to do next.

[Ubersheist]

I wouldn't ask the band. You will get either what you know already or they'll be uncomfortable telling you what they really didn't like about the playing. So, you already know the answer or you won't get any useful answer.

It sounds like you need a bit more woodshedding. Also, ask some of your musician friends what they like or don't like about your playing. If your tone sucks to everyone but you, you play too loud or play too much, the band probably won't tell you for risk of offending you. Go to people who know you better and ask them how you can better improve. Even ask non musicians (i.e. girlfriend or buddies) and take their advice.