I have district band auditions in ONE week. I need help finding some quick sight

Question:

I have district band auditions in ONE week. I need help finding some quick sight reading tips.?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I was a heavy duty musician during high school, and into college, and the whole range of district, all state, etc. sorts of auditions. I agree with some but not all of what greeneyed...said. Here are my suggestions, in no particular order of importance:

1) Look at the key signature, and finger through the SCALE in that key - if it's a-flat, finger the A flat scale through the entire range of your instrument (or 2 octaves if you're playing a brass instrument)

2) Getting the rhythyms right is FAR more important than playing the right notes. The judge does not want to listen to someone fumble around trying to get the notes right - when you slow down, speed up, go back to correct missed notes, etc., it's incredibly disconcerting for a judge, and makes them wonder what you're going to do in concert setting if you make mistakes. So KEEP GOING regardless of any mistake that you make. Seriously - this is probably the most important advice I can give you.

3) Look at the articulations - and try to at least get an overall feel for the phrasing. Picking up on these elements shows that you are really paying attention to the details.

4) Finally, remember to make music. I've found that even if your dynamics are a little off, and your phrasing isn't all that hot, if you at least make an effort at playing musically, you'll score some points.

Good luck!