1. Now is the time to carefully select a piece of music.
2. Choosing an appropriate selection: read through several pieces; pick one with some challenges, yet within your capabilities. Check the time regulations of the event to make sure your piece meets the requirements.
3. Seek help from a band director, a former music teacher or private teacher.
4. Make sure your instrument is in good repair.
5. Start practicing the music slowly, trying to avoid learning mistakes.
6. Take the initiative. You are responsible for your own success.
2 MONTHS BEFORE – “GETTING READY”
1. Find a reliable accompanist.
2. Give your accompanist the music and set up a rehearsal schedule planning on meeting 4-5 times.
3. Try to obtain a recording of your piece. Be sure to listen for the piano part as well as your own. Get to know the entire piece.
AT LEAST 1 MONTH BEFORE – “REHEARSING”
1. Each person must know their own part perfectly.
2. Get together to read through the music.
3. Use a metronome individually and together as a group.
4. Try to rehearse at least once a week, preferably more often.
2 WEEKS BEFORE – “POLISHING YOUR ACT”
1. Prepare your music. Number the measures. Make sure you have a score and the original parts.
2. Play for people; practice performing. Play for your band director, parents, other students, church or civic groups, or have your own recital with other students.
FINAL WEEK – “THE FINAL TOUCHES”
1. Remember to still practice slowly.
2. Routine difficult passages daily.
3. Eat right and get plenty of sleep.
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
1. Think about what you will wear.
2. You want to look professional and confident.
3. Men: suit or shirt, tie or sweater, and dress slacks (no jeans)
Women: Nice dress or skirt, or dress pants. No noisy jewelry.
4. Keep in mind that you want to be comfortable and breathe easily.
THE DAY OF THE PERFORMANCE
1. Make sure to have breakfast.
2. Arrive early.
3. Find your warm-up room and performance room.
4. Recheck your performance time.
5. If you play later in the day, keep yourself occupied by listening to other events or bring a good book to read. Don’t wear yourself out and keep cool.
1/2 HOUR BEFORE YOU PLAY (not sooner)
1. Make sure your accompanist is ready or that you know where they are.
2. Warm-up with slow scales, long tones, or other tone exercises. Breathe deeply.
3. Go over difficult passages extremely slowly if at all.
4. Keep the instrument warm so that it is ready to tune.
5. Keep reeds wet.
6. Swab out excess moisture.
7. Stay calm.
8. Always put the instrument in its case if you must go outside to reach the performance room.
THE PERFORMANCE
1. Walk into the room with a smile.
2. Arrange yourself in a good position.
3. Tune carefully, but fairly quickly.
4. Take a couple of deep breaths to release tension.
5. Communicate your music to your listeners and HAVE FUN!