commakozzi

I have a general question for any professionals out there. I would like to audition for a symphony, but am out of practice and did not graduate music school. I am a decent trumpet player and plan to practice a lot for the rest of my life (if I can!). I know where I am as a player right now and I know that I need a good 2 years to get up to a great level of playing. However, at about a year to a year and a half from now I imagine I'd like to at least try to audition for some sub spots if possible. I will get out in the meantime and play with as many groups as will take me, and I'll continue to work towards playing professionally. What would be expected of me in a sub spot audition? Should I start practicing transposition on a regular basis and orchestral excerpts, etc. Do I need to buy a C trumpet or any other keyed trumpet? Should I have a piccolo? I just want to know if there's any hope for me.

By the way, I'm in the Atlanta area, so if Tom Hooten reads this thread I'd love to talk to him and ask him about taking some lessons if possible.

Thanks,
Michael

alittlebirdy

Michael, What type of orchestra do you want to audition for?

Your local town symphony?

A regional orchestra?

I think based on your questions these would be the kind of groups you might want to shoot for.