String Auditions – Moderator Script

1. Student Arrival & Initial Setup

o As each student enters the audition room, greet them warmly
and take their score sheet from them. Write down their audition
number on both your moderator worksheet and the student's
score sheet (if the number is missing on the student sheet). This
audition number is confidential and should not be shared with
the judges at any time to maintain anonymity and fairness
throughout the audition process.
o Double-check that the student is in the correct audition room
(viola, cello, or bass), and briefly remind them of the audition
order to help them stay focused.
2. Audition Order
o For viola, cello, and bass students, instruct them to perform in
the following order:
 Scales
 Solo 1
 Solo 2
 Sight Reading
o Make sure they understand the sequence, as this will help the
audition run smoothly without confusion.
3. Metronome Setup & Timing for Scales
o For the scale portion of the audition, set the metronome to the
appropriate tempo (quarter note = 120) and provide 4 beats
before they begin playing. Ensure that you’re ready to offer the
correct tempo, and that the student has enough time to prepare
their instrument before they start.
o Please note that for bass scales, the tempo should be slightly
slower, set at quarter note = 96. Double-check with the student
if they are aware of this adjustment for the bass players.
4. Solo Performances
o After the scale section, the student will proceed to perform Solo
1. Give them a moment to transition between the scale and the
first solo. Ensure they are comfortable and ready to start.
o After Solo 1, remind the student that they will then perform Solo
2. Allow them a moment to reset between the pieces if needed,
but make sure they’re aware that Solo 2 follows immediately
after the first solo.
5. Sight Reading Preparation
o Once the student has finished Solo 2, place the sight reading
material on the music stand for them. Ensure it’s clearly visible
and in position before you proceed.
o Give the student exactly 30 seconds to review the sight reading
before you tell them to begin. You may offer a brief reminder,
 such as: “You have 30 seconds to review the material. Please use
this time to familiarize yourself with the piece.”
o After the 30-second period, instruct the student to begin the
sight reading portion. Be sure to start timing accurately, and give
them a clear signal to begin.
6. Closing the Audition
o Once the student has finished the sight reading, thank them for
their performance and escort them out of the room. As the
student exits, close the door behind them to maintain a quiet
and focused environment for the next audition.
o Immediately begin recording the judges' scores on the student’s
score sheet. Carefully input the scores as given by each judge,
making sure to total the scores by adding them across the
columns. If necessary, use a calculator to ensure the totals are
accurate.
7. Score Sheet Handling
o After you have completed recording the scores, place the
student’s score sheet face down on the table. This helps
maintain confidentiality and allows for easy collection of all score
sheets later on. These can be gathered periodically throughout
the day, ensuring no mix-up of students' scores.
o Take a moment to double-check that all information has been
recorded correctly before moving on to the next student.
8. Transition to the Next Student
o After completing the paperwork for one student, bring in the next
student for their audition. Repeat the entire process, following
the same steps and ensuring the consistency and fairness of the
audition experience.
o Take a moment to confirm the student’s name and audition
number, and ensure they have their music and all necessary
materials before beginning the process again.
9. Ensure Music Availability
o If at any point a student does not have a copy of the music they
need for the audition, it is important that you have extra copies
available. This includes sight reading material, scales, or solo
repertoire, if applicable. Always ensure that each student has
what they need to perform to the best of their ability.
o You may also offer a reminder to the student about the
importance of being prepared with their own music, but be sure
to assist them if any materials are missing.
10. General Tips for Moderators
 Throughout the day, maintain a calm, organized atmosphere to keep
the students focused and reduce any anxiety they may feel. As the
moderator, your role is not only to facilitate the audition process but
also to offer a supportive, non-judgmental environment for the
students to perform.
 If any technical difficulties arise, such as issues with the metronome,
music stand, or any other equipment, remain calm and address the
problem quickly. Always have backup materials (extra music copies, a
backup metronome, etc.) in case of emergencies.
 Be mindful of the time and keep the auditions running on schedule. If a
student is taking longer than expected, gently remind them of the time
without rushing them.