Applicability of periodization to orchestral audition preparation on trombone: a case study

The process of auditioning can seem daunting because of the high standards of performance required to win. Brass players have a finite amount of time they can practice each day because of the small muscles of the embouchure. Despite the vast amount of information available on preparing for a brass orchestral audition, little has been written on how to organize a practice schedule leading up to the audition. An analysis of literature in the major brass journals confirm which strategies have been considered to be most important when preparing for an audition, but an important component from the world for athletics is often overlooked. The concept of periodized training from the sports world is introduced as a way to guide the auditioner in implementing these strategies to prepare in the most efficient way possible. With a periodized plan, the brass player will be better able to identify and focus on their own audition-specific strengths and weaknesses. This will provide a template that could help avoid injury and support peak performance when it matters most: at the audition. Interviews with professional trombonists offered in the appendices provide a unique perspective on auditions and their individualized approach to each audition