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One Minute Audition

Timmah

Timmah

Supporting Member
May 19, 2011
1,789
3,157
Connecticut
#1
Hey all,
I'm auditioning tomorrow for a student-run "rock ensemble" on campus. The catch is that the piece I play needs to be a minute or so in length, and should be a "rock" piece (though their definition is a little bit loose). I will also not have any accompaniment, unless I bring my looper and do that on the spot. If this were you, what would you choose?
Thanks!
 
#4
If this were me, I'd look around for a band that's interested in how the bass player sounds in a group situation, not an unaccompanied situation. I'm sure you're anxious to do well and get the gig, but what gig are you getting? One with a group of musicians who aren't concerned with how they sound as an ensemble?

A one-minute audition seems to encourage an "over-playing" situation, which may be exactly what they are not looking for. Without any idea of the genre ("rock" is a pretty broad palette), I'd keep it fairly simple, but somewhat interesting. I'd avoid the loop pedal and show a great sense of your own internal timing, whatever piece of music you choose.
 
#5
I'd tell them to shove it, because practicing for this and hauling my equipment around for 60 seconds of playtime by myself is 1) not worth the pain in the butt and 2) gives nobody (including myself) any idea of how we will work together in the band context (personality, playing style, EQ, etc).

Normally we agree on 5 songs (if they have that many) plus some time on the front and/or back to talk shop and see how we click.

Peace,
Greg
 
#6
Wow, you guys are cranky! ;)

In all seriousness, I do find the vagueness and the "one minute audition" thing a bit, well, stupid, but beggars can't be choosers- I've run quite short on opportunities to play with others based on the fact that here at school there is a rather limited pool of musicians.

Plus, all I've got to bring is my bass. I figure all I have to lose is fifteen minutes of my Sunday afternoon, and that's not so bad.

So, anyone have anything other than RHCP to suggest (good suggestion, by the way, just looking for any other opinions too)?

As always, thanks!
 
#14
If you must participate in this silliness, stuff as many instantly recognizable classic rock riffs as possible into that minute.

I would also dress to the nines and get my best bass stance and bass face going on.

I have a feeling whoever leaves the deepest impression, and does the most with that 60 seconds, will get this slot.
 
#20
It doesn't matter what you choose to play. They're looking for something very, very specific and it isn't WHAT you play but HOW you play. Maybe it's a sound or style or possibly even a look. Or maybe just a 'vibe'.

With just 60 seconds, it's really about appearances though, even if they don't think so. They're going to make up their minds the moment you walk in the door.

It's not up to you to 'pass' or 'fail' this audition. It's simply a matter of pure luck if you happen to present with whatever it is they already have in mind.
 

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