stress-free orchestra audition proceedure

[michael]

This appeared on an orchestra message board

anonymous

The orchestras I've played in (not pro orchestras but good amateur
orchestras with a sprinkling of pros) now usually audition a
prospective new string player (usually of grade 8+ standard or
equivalent experience) by having them play in the front desk of the
appropriate section alongside the section leader for at least half a
typical orchestra rehearsal. The player is quietly observed by the
conductor, the section leader, the players in the 2nd desk of the
section, and the leader/concertmaster. The auditioners then discuss
their findings immediately afterwards and someone relays the decision
to the applicant. If accepted, the applicant is then assigned to the
appropriate section and placement therein. I think this is probably
as
realistic and as stress-free a method of auditioning as you can get,
and produces reliable results.