What to expect during the Berklee College of Music audition process?

I'm gearing up for an audition at Berklee College of Music and am super nervous! Can anyone share tips or insights on what the audition process is like and how best to prepare for it?

Absolutely, happy to provide some insights for your upcoming audition at Berklee College of Music! First off, the most reassuring thing to know is that the audition process is designed to be low-pressure and positive.

The audition process consists of a live audition and an interview. For the live audition, you'll play two pieces: a prepared piece of your choice that showcases your musical abilities and a short piece that will be provided by Berklee right before you perform. Your prepared piece doesn't have to be long, generally 3-5 minutes, but it should highlight your musical strengths and personality. Pick a piece that you're confident with and that you think shows your technical proficiency and musicality.

For the provided piece, it would typically be well within your comfort zone if you are regularly practicing and performing, even though you won't see it until shortly before your audition.

Second, the interview is more of an informal conversation. You'll be asked about your musical background, your future aspirations, and why you want to attend Berklee. They may ask about any ensemble experience you have and which musicians you admire. Remember to be honest and let your passion for music shine.

In terms of preparation, practice is of course the key. You should also be prepared to sight-read and improvise—the audition may include these components to assess your musicianship skills. Be ready to demonstrate your ability to play different styles of music, and above all, demonstrate that you can take guidance and feedback.

Lastly, keep a positive mindset and remember that the audition is about showcasing what you can do and figuring out if Berklee is the right fit for your musical aspirations. All the best for your audition!