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Audition concerns

T

TimboSlice87

Nov 21, 2010
67
0
39
#1
My dad told me about this band, and I added them on facebook. I caught word that they were looking for a bass player. I got in touch with them on facebook, letting them know i was interested. They sent me 3 songs to learn which ive made good progress on. I am supposed to audition in a couple days. The thing is though I've never been in a band before, and never really discussed much details with the band. Im kind of worried that they would be offended that im not experienced, its not that im trying to hide the fact. On the flip side, would this be a red flag that they didnt ask me more questions ahead of time?
 
#2
#3
Stumbo said:
I'd just learn the songs and go to the audition. If you can do it, then do it. Gotta start somewhere.

Do you have the bass rig that will fit in with their musics/venues? Do you have transportation?

Don't forget, you're auditioning them as well.

Good luck.

Here are some links you may want 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"
Click to expand...

Yeah ive got my own car, and amp which should be loud enough. Thanks for the info, Im gonna give it my best shot.
 
#4
Learn the songs to the best of your ability and go from there. Read the threads as highlighted above and see if there is anything else that can help you - most likely there is.

I auditioned with a band once completely inexperienced - never even played a song without the sheet music in front of me from start to finish. Learned 5 for the audition. Showed up, played the best I could and BOOM! I got in! I worked my butt off and kept getting better, more practicing and I was on my way. I am still in that band.....

Some bands are looking for people who can grow into the part and/or have something special about them that can only get better in time...

If you are worried about asking questions - post them here and we can help you out.
 
#6
You should audition regardless, you have nothing to loose and experience to gain.

Make sure you really know and can play the songs they sent you flawlessly (intros, all changes, playing in the right positions ect.)

You miight want to ask them what kind of tone they want you to use.

Also do a sound check with them before you audition the songs.Get aproval from all band members that your volume is right for the. You don't want to be to loud and at the same time you want them to be able to hear you.

blue
 
#8
Don't worry about where you have been and not being in a band etc. Learn the songs and go in strong. Even if you have never been in a band you have to be auditioning them as well. See if they are people you can "hang" with. Do you like the music or like it enough you can perform it and still not get bored or sick of it. Ask some questions but don't come off as pushy. Good questions to ask. How long has the band been together? How often do they gig /practice? What are the bands expectations,local,touring ,recording etc? Be honest positive and upfront. Good luck!
 
#10
I agree with everyone else, go for it! You have to start somewhere if you ever intend on being in a band. If they turn you down don't take it personal, just continue to practice and get better.

My first band audition they didn't know any of the songs I knew and I didn't know any they knew so I had to put on an old Iron Maiden album and I played 22 acacia avenue along with the record, I got the part and played with them for a few years.
 
#11
So I finally auditioned today. Met the drummer, who seems like a pretty cool guy. Jammed a bit until the guitarist/vocalist showed up (she had to go get her micstand). We played our 3 songs and that was it. The drummer said that I was the only bass player who played one of the songs the way it was on the track, and that he appreciated that. Afterward she texted me and said that overall they liked me alot, they have one more guy to audition and they will keep in touch. I think I made a good impression. So well see what happens...
Anyways I had a good time.
 
#12
TimboSlice87 said:
So I finally auditioned today. Met the drummer, who seems like a pretty cool guy. Jammed a bit until the guitarist/vocalist showed up (she had to go get her micstand). We played our 3 songs and that was it. The drummer said that I was the only bass player who played one of the songs the way it was on the track, and that he appreciated that. Afterward she texted me and said that overall they liked me alot, they have one more guy to audition and they will keep in touch. I think I made a good impression. So well see what happens...
Anyways I had a good time.
Click to expand...

Good job...hope you get it.
 
#13
TimboSlice87 said:
My dad told me about this band, and I added them on facebook. I caught word that they were looking for a bass player. I got in touch with them on facebook, letting them know i was interested. They sent me 3 songs to learn which ive made good progress on. I am supposed to audition in a couple days. The thing is though I've never been in a band before, and never really discussed much details with the band. Im kind of worried that they would be offended that im not experienced, its not that im trying to hide the fact. On the flip side, would this be a red flag that they didnt ask me more questions ahead of time?
Click to expand...

You should go in with a good attitude, nail the songs, and then proceed to candidly discuss where you are as a musician.

They may not have asked about your experience because it may not make that much difference to them. Some bands put more stock in what you're like as a person and what you bring to their project.

The first band I auditioned for had many years experience and was considered one of the best originals/covers band in the area. Based on my audition, they rolled the dice on me and it was the best experience of my playing career. They were generous with sharing their advice and experience, and I was humble and appreciative. I was also a quick study and got up to speed quickly in all aspects of rehearsal and performance.

Go for it, use common sense, be a good hang and open minded, it could be one of the best things that happened to you. Even if you don't pass the audition, it's a good excersize in preparation and attitude.
 

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