Denis Loncaric
Nervous about drummer auditions?
Don’t be.
With 18 years behind the kit, I’ll show you how to showcase your skills, pick the right pieces, and crush any style thrown your way.
Let’s make your audition unforgettable.
Ready to rock?
Drummer Auditions: The Prep Playbook
Feeling audition jitters? Let’s cut through the noise. Here’s a quickfire guide to prep like a pro.
1. Skill Check: Record your drumming. It’s eye-opening to see where you sizzle and where you fizzle. Nailing the groove? Awesome. Flubbing fills? Fixable. This isn’t about self-critique; it’s about strategy.
2. Research Rundown: Not all gigs are created equal. Match your jazz hands or rock stance to the right crowd. Dive into the depths of forums and local boards for the scoop on auditions.
3. Portfolio Power-Up: A tight demo reel can say more than a lengthy CV. A few minutes of your best beats can set the stage for your skills.
4. Gear Game: Keep your kit crisp. Whether it’s a four-on-the-floor or a full setup, make sure it’s audition-ready.
5. Genre Gymnastics: Versatility is your friend. Jazz, rock, funk – spin these on your practice playlist. Familiar tunes during auditions can be a bonus track to your success.
Audition Day Decoded: Hit the Right Beat
It’s showtime! Your audition day is the grand finale of all your prep. Here’s the lowdown to make it rock solid.
Expect the Unexpected: You’ll strut your stuff, maybe tackle the band’s hits, or sight-read something fresh. Jam sessions? Could be. Q&A? Definitely. Flexibility is your drumstick here.
Dress the Part: Wear something that screams “I’m ready to roll” but keeps you comfy. Tip: A touch of the band’s vibe in your look shows you’re in tune with them.
Cool, Calm, Collected: Got butterflies? Breathe. In, out, repeat. Visualize that standing ovation. Positive vibes are your invisible metronome.
Post-Audition Playbook: Fine-Tune Your Drumming Journey
Audition’s over? Time to switch gears to reflection and growth mode.
Seek Out Feedback: It’s like a drum solo for personal growth. Touch base with the panel—thank them, and gently ask for their take on your performance. Show them you’re all about hitting the right notes in your career.
Self-Review Rhythm: Replay the day. What clicked? What clanked? Self-awareness is your snare drum here—tight and on point.
Set Goals, Get Grooving: Feedback in? Now, lay down your next tracks. Timing off? Metronome’s your new best friend. Stage presence more snare than flare? Maybe it’s time to add some drama to your repertoire.
Wrap Up
And remember, each drummer audition beats a new path in your musical journey. Keep the groove going, refine those skills, and drum your way to the top. Every audition is a measure in the song of your career. Keep playing. Keep learning. Keep rocking.
My name is Denis. I am a drummer, percussionist, music enthusiast, and blogger. Drums have been my passion for 15 years now. My idea is to write about the things I like and I am interested in. I want to share my drum passion with fellow musicians who walk, talk, and breathe drums.
