THE PERFORMANCE RATING

Ensemble rating audition is reserved online at:

https://www.berklee.edu/ensemble/ensemble-auditions-signups

Each rating is scored individually and reflects performance skill on scale of 1 (low) to 8 (high).
st nd rd th
(1 Digit) (2 Digit) (3 Digit) (4 Digit)
__________________ __________________ __________________ __________________

Reading Accuracy Instrumental Skills Improvisation Rhythmic/Stylistic

Interpretation

PERFORMANCE RATINGS AUDITION REQUIREMENTS

The purpose of the performance ratings audition is to evaluate you performance capabilities in a group
setting for the purpose of ensemble placement. The performance evaluation will focus upon you ability to
keep accurate time while demonstrating melodic, harmonic and rhythmic accuracy. Other considerations,
such as intonation stylistic interpretation, comping, and form concept also apply. Auditions are conducted
before a team of ensemble faculty along with the accompaniment of a student or faculty rhythm section.
Students are permitted to audition once during each semester, either during midterms, or the final week of
the semester. First semester student will be allowed to re-audition during midterms or finals week.

The audition consists of three parts: the prepared piece, an improvisation evaluation, and sight-reading
evaluation.

PREPARED PIECE

The prepared piece is intended to provide an opportunity to demonstrate performance ability with a
familiar piece of music that best reflects you individual tastes and abilities. The prepared piece may be
performed using your own prerecorded accompaniment (minus your audition instrument), such as mp3, or
by using the in room live rhythm section. You CAN NOT use your own band. Parts must be provided for
the faculty audition evaluators and, if not using mp3, for the live rhythm section players
(guitar/piano/bass/drums). Solo pieces that do not demonstrate ensemble performance skills should not
be used. A lead sheet format is preferred over complicated arrangements that necessitate rehearsal time.

IMPROVISTATION

During the second segment of the audition, you will be evaluated on melodic interpretation and
improvisation (melodic, harmonic, rhythmic accuracy over changes) through performance of music
selected by the faculty audition team.

DRUMMERS: You will evaluate on your groove, ability in a variety of styles, such as swing, bossa,
samba and funk. You will also be asked to improvise during this portion of the audition.

SIGHT READING

During this final segment of the audition, you will be asked to perform written material with rhythm section
accompaniment. The reading example are designed to test you reading accuracy through your
interpretation of melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic notation at specified tempo, with applicable dynamics
and articulation.
 PERFORMANCE RATINGS AUDITION
INFORMATION

Please arrive at the audition site at least ten minutes before you scheduled audition time. It is
recommended that you seek out the location of the audition site prior to you scheduled time to avoid
arriving late. A late arrival for the audition may result in your having to reschedule for a future audition
period or, at the least, will result in having time subtracted from your audition.

INSTRUMENTALISTS: It is recommended that you have your instrument out of the case, warmed up and
turned prior to entering the audition room. Once in the audition room, time devoted to instrument
assembly and tuning will be subtracted from the allotted audition time.

VOCALISTS: Vocalists are asked to prepare TWO prepared pieces. It is recommended that you allow
time to warm up prior to entering the audition room.

DRUMMERS: A drum set is provided and, when possible, cymbals will be included. Time devoted to
rearranging the drum set will impact upon your allotted audition time.

GUITARISTS AND BASSISTS: Amplifiers are provided. You may bring your own amplifier. However,
time devoted to set-up of amplifiers, pedals, or other effects will impact upon you allotted audition time.

HAND PERCUSSION AND VIBES: Miscellaneous percussion instruments such as bongos, timbales, and
congas are available though the Ensemble Office. Sets of vibes are dispersed throughout the
Massachusetts Avenue ensemble room area. Those wishing to utilize this equipment should make
arrangements well in advance of the scheduled audition so as to help ensure instrument availability and
to allow ample time to move the instruments to the audition time.

IMPORTANT!

CANCELLATIONS: To cancel a rating audition, please check your email confirmation and click on Cancel this
Booking to follow the instructions, at least 24 hours in advanced. Failure to cancel in advance will result in
suspension of students booking privileges for the semester.

For further information or if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us 617-747-2122 or
ensemblereservations@berklee.edu

2016, Ensemble Department