Overview

Band musicians in the Instrumental Music Department are members of large and small instrumental ensembles who perform all types of music. In the senior year, they present a senior recital that is the culmination of four years of study.  Whether or not they plan on studying music at the university level, graduates will be ready to continue a lifetime of rewarding musical experience whether as supporters, consumers, or performers.

The panel is looking for a clear example of what you can do well on your instrument right now.  At each round of the audition, they will be assessing your tone quality, rhythmic and note accuracy, intonation, your attention to the markings in the music other than the notes and rhythms, and your expressiveness.  Some advice for a good performance:  Do not attempt to play the most difficult music you can find or play super-fast to try to impress the panel.  The way to perform your best is to perform music that you enjoy playing, and that shows off your cleanest and most expressive playing.

When are auditions and callbacks?

The first stage of auditions for the 2025-26 school year will be virtual. 

Submissions will be accepted from December 10, 2024 - February 21, 2025.  Each assignment and video will be uploaded individually.  The submission deadline for materials is February 21, 2025. 

Live callbacks are by invitation only.  You will be notified if you have received a callback no later than February 26, 2025.  Callback instructions will be provided to students at that time.  You will not need to learn any additional music.  Hold the date of Saturday, March 1, 2025, for a possible in-person callback.

What do I need to prepare?

Part 1:  30-60 second introduction – Brief video introduction of who you are, how long you have been playing and why you are interested in attending Kinder HSPVA’s Instrumental department

Part 2:  Make a video recording with clear audio of you performing the excerpts.

Wind & Brass

Record two (2) contrasting excerpts from music you have recently worked on that demonstrate your best and most beautiful playing.  Play about 2 minutes of each piece.  Skip multi-measure rests or long silences during your performance.  It is strongly suggested you consult your music teacher concerning choice of excerpts.  Do not use piano accompaniment on this recording.  Each piece will be uploaded individually.

Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophones OPTIONAL: perform an improvised jazz solo with recorded accompaniment

Percussion

Record two (2) total contrasting solos, one each on different instruments.  Select from any of these instruments you have access to:

• snare drum
• drum pad
• timpani
• toms
• xylophone
• marimba

Improvised or homemade instruments are acceptable (garbage cans, pots & pans, pieces of wood, etc.).  Play music you have recently worked on that demonstrates your best and most beautiful playing.  Play about 2 minutes of each piece.  Skip multi-measure rests or long silences during your performance.  It is strongly suggested you consult your music teacher concerning choice of excerpts.  Do not use piano accompaniment on this recording.  Each piece will be uploaded individually.

NOTES:

• All videos will be uploaded individually.
• Introduce the piece you will be playing (name and composer).
• Your entire body from head to toe including hands and instrument should be visible on the video.  Position the camera so your music stand does not block the view.  Make sure the recording is free from background noise.  You may sit or stand for your performance.  Do not use piano accompaniment on your recording.
• The quality of the video will not be taken into consideration.  Using your phone or tablet is completely acceptable.
• Make sure that the final version you submit represents your best work.  Unlike a live audition, you can keep recording until you are satisfied.
• If you are unable to record a video or upload for any reason, please contact Mr. Klein, Magnet Coordinator, to discuss alternatives. (jklein1@houstonisd.org)