Thank you for your interest in auditioning for the sousaphone section of the Boise State University Keith Stein Blue Thunder Marching Band! The audition helps us assess your skills and ensure a smooth transition into the band. Don’t worry—we’re here to support your success every step of the way!
To be considered complete, every marching band sousaphone audition must include the following components:
Fundamentals
- MAJOR SCALES: Select any four major scales provided and perform them from memory without moving.
Play at ♩ = 100, using the given rhythmic pattern and legato tonguing. If possible, demonstrate your full range using full octaves only (no half octaves). - CHROMATIC SCALE: Perform the chromatic scale at the bottom of the page from memory, as fast as possible, using the indicated articulations.
- Downloadable pdf of fundamental portion of audition can be found here
Repertoire
- Prepare one solo or etude, approximately 2–3 minutes long, that demonstrates your technical ability. At the start of the audition, state the title, composer, and whether it is a solo or an etude.
Visual
- March 8 to 5 forward and backward while playing any two scales of your choice, using an audible metronome.
- Play the same two scales three times each at the following tempi:
- ♩ = 80
- ♩ = 120
- ♩ = 160
- Use the rhythmic pattern shown on the scale page. If possible, demonstrate your full range by playing additional full octaves only (no half octaves).
- Video link of visual portion of the audition can be found here