My Juilliard Audition Story

[@david6417]

I was nervous watching this video.

[@ThatViolaKid]

+David Phung Me too actually :D

[@madisonnnxo1294]

Saaaame

[@chunkc_]

Exactly!! My heart was pumping and everything.

[@wensleyeveillard1241]

Never ask Yahoo Answers "Should I go to Juilliard" these people know how to crush ur spirit God DAM

[@juliyanmartinez3785]

I was just one of the 2 freshman that got into the top band at my high school (5th chair clarinet out of 12) coming from last chair clarinet in 8th grade I'm so proud and I feel so accomplished :) Edit: 3 years later and I just committed to the Juilliard class of 2024 :)

[@ThatViolaKid]

I'm proud of you!!!

[@Mike-dm5zg]

m

[@yaasianchris3868]

Gady LaGa same here I was 10th chair on my first year in symphony 2nd year playing and I was moved to th chair as a first violin. Practice Practice Practice :)

[@oneilchery1192]

Gady LaGa

[@clarinetmaster5990]

Haha I have a similar experience. In 8th grade I was in the symphonic band playing bass clarinet but in 9th grade, high school, I got 1st chair in the wind ensemble over: a senior, three sophomores, and a junior.

[@ThatViolaKid]

You asked, and I delivered!!! A vlog about my Juilliard Audition! As we approach this audition season, I hope you watch this and gain confidence in your ability to succeed! I'm wishing you all the best

[@flutechannel]

+ThatViolaKid nice explanation!

[@sarahgreep9886]

I play the harp and was looking around when I found this video. I love this story, all of the suggestions, and the sense of humor was amazing! 😂 Thanks for this video.

[@chriscat1560]

ThatViolaKid i really hope I get into julliard my mom dosent want me to have a music career, (not that good at spelling but I'm really smart) she wants me to be a robotics engineer. I'm really good at the violin I can play middle school chamber music even though I'm in beginer my brother helped me a lot he's in CHAMBER and he gives me some violin CHAMBER sheet music. my teacher is really cool she helps me to, my brother and I always get first chair he is the Philharmonic region orchestra 5th chair cello I'm going to beat him I have a lot of xp.But I really do want to get in to julliard tell me and give me some advice.

[@wyattleatherman3093]

Hey can you be a guitarist when you get in julliard

[@wrenwhalen4471]

ThatViolaKid Hello! This is kind of a random question, but had you always wanted to major in music? I'm a freshman in highschool, and I play Clarinet. I don't know what I want to do when I get out of highschool, and I have been thinking about music. I love Clarinet, but I don't know what I could do with it career wise.

[@saramorales8728]

I'm auditioning on March 3rd and have been freaking out for the past like two months, and this video has helped calm my nerves a little bit. Thanks! :)

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Sara Morales Glad to hear it! :)

[@Sarah-ov1rb]

+Sara Morales I'll be there on the 4th! :~D

[@chriss-tw9jy]

+Sara Morales HOW WAS IT?!

[@saramorales8728]

+cvs4297 ahhh I didn't get in, but I still had a really great experience and I was super happy with how I played! I really enjoyed the whole audition process :)

[@ThatViolaKid]

***** I'm sorry to hear that, Sara! But I'm SOOOOO proud of you for auditioning and putting yourself out there! You're amazing! =D

[@Schtofenbach]

You are so nice and humble and touch all the real common problems. I will send it to my daughter as an example for any audition.

[@ThatViolaKid]

Wowww thank you so much

[@tedviolafire]

What a great video! I started viola when I was 12 too (no violin). I'm about to retire as a professional Viola player. There are lots of ups and downs, but you're right: if you persevere, prepare, and do your best, you can be surprised how well you can do.

[@ThatViolaKid]

Wow, that's amazing! What is it like to retire???

[@tedviolafire]

I'll let you know. I get social security and union pension, but I still can keep my playing gigs. That part of it's sweet, because I don't have to worry about the check in the mail as much. One thing is, I enjoy listening to people play live a lot more than I used to. I wish being "audience" paid better.

[@tedviolafire]

Hardest thing about being old playing, you don't have the energy to punt, so preparation and adequate rest beforehand becomes more important. Also, your ear is better, so you want to play better, which as you know is really hard.

[@tedviolafire]

I love what you say about practicing: if you don't like your playing, do something about it. Those days when you're sure you suck (and you're sure everyone knows it) are the most important to work through.

[@ThatViolaKid]

tedviolafire Exactly!!!!

[@yukievans9506]

Am I the only one who felt so anxious watching this video?!?!?!!?!

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Brandon Evans I'm glad I could create some suspense ;)

[@valentinamillan1552]

hi!! i'm in 13 yrs old, i have a strong passion for piano. I've been playing since I was 5 years old. And my dream is to get into Juilliard school. This video inspired me to keep working to reach my goal. The hardest song i'm learning right now is La Campanella by Liszt 😬. I really hope I can get into Juilliard in the future. Thank you so much for posting this video!!!

[@ThatViolaKid]

My pleasure!!! Best of luck!!!

[@Ergoperidot]

If you're 14 and playing La Campanella, you'll probably make it. Good luck my friend.

[@olincave708]

Omg literally me too

[@vivianagutierrez8711]

I'm 12 and been playing for 6 years and the fact that your able to play a song by Liszt... Oof I'm trash 😔. (Also I really want to go to Julliard)

[@katiealexander5192]

I started playing violin when I was 12, and I want to go to Manhattan School of Music! I'm 14 now. I'm practicing a ton and working like crazy to try and get in for undergrad! This video was awesome!

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Katie Alexander Awww thanks Katie!!! Keep working hard! You have plenty of time, so make sure you stay focused :)

[@youzhang5018]

update?

[@madiraabe9945]

I just went from the lower orchestra to my schools highest orchestra. And I'm literally so scared to play with the chamber group this year. we are traveling to London to play at the queens Jubilee. I need to practice 😂

[@ThatViolaKid]

Practiceeeee

[@yarasalman4098]

Wow! I can never watch a video of yours without ending up feeling positive as hell!😃

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Yara Salman Awww haha I'm so glad to hear that! I'm so glad they help :D

[@cassiepilgrim4206]

I swear I'm mature drew but I still laughed at the "butt" hahaha

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Cassie Pilgrim HAHAHAHA I did too! I'm glad we're on the same page here :D

[@laurencunio2717]

ahh these videos of yours are so exciting for me to see! I'm just a high school sophomore but for years it has been my dream to eventually attend The Juilliard School. Every once in a while I lose sight of that and begin doubting myself, but then you upload a video that inspires me all over again. Thank you for creating these videos for people like me because they truly make a difference:)

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Lauren Cunio Thank YOU for watching them! =D

[@ninareyes9941]

THANK YOU SO MUCH. I started playing the cello a year and a half ago (when I was 12), and I had big dreams to go to a good music school. I thought since I started later than most people I wouldn't make it, but you showed me it's possible! (With lots of effort and focused practice of course) I love watching your videos and you inspire me practice more daily. Thank you!!!!! 😄😄😊😄😃😃😄😊

[@ThatViolaKid]

I'm so glad to hear that Nina! Thanks for watching!!!! :)

[@taylorrakovic6672]

Juilliard is my dream school. I am only a sophomore but I am determined. I've been playing viola since 4th grade and instantly fell in love. Music has basically taken over my whole entire life, thanks for this video I can't wait to start applying to music schools!

[@Ouistiti_de_l_Espace]

I play viola for eight years now, I don't wanna become a professional musician but I really love my instrument. And even with my little level, your video encouraged me a lot to continue to do my best and to enjoy playing. Thanks. ❤

[@laratahm8124]

I am so thankful that you did this video. I got a bit emotional now, because I don't expect myself that I could be a violinist teacher in the future and I have the feeling that I play so bad at the moment. But your video opened my eyes and now I want to work for it. My dream is to study at the Estonian academy of Music and Theatre. You showed me that it's not to late for me to start working on it. Thank you so much for this video, Drew. I am going to start working and practising more and more for my dream.

[@ThatViolaKid]

I'm sooo incredibly humbled that I was able to help you see that potential inside yourself!!! You deserve it--now work hard and EARN IT :)

[@laratahm8124]

Yes, thank you, thank you. I do work hard right now. Yesterday and Today I played more than 2 hours. And I feel so proud of myself right now. I usually never play during my summer holidays, but this year is different. I have A LOT to work on, haha. Thank you, again, for this video. :))) I feel more motivated and happier than before to be honest.

[@EndureTyrant]

It's really inspiring watching your videos, I really want to make it into Juilliard one day, I am a 4th year bassoonist, and it really is great to watch your videos, even if we do play slightly different instruments.

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Endure Tyrant Thanks for watching!! I really means a lot to me!!! :)

[@emmalovesjackaboy9077]

I'm in 6th grade and I'm starting cello, and I really love it and I completely respect the viola. But my pick was cello. I look forward to playing throughout high school and collage

[@alanabrown-davis1824]

I am in the 7th grade and I am starting piano trumpet and euphonium and I also sing. I hope that one day I can audition for school's like this.

[@fionafitzgerald9709]

I play cello too

[@daddyb8000]

Emma LOVES JACKABOY I play cello to and it’s so cool but let me tell you, you will consider quitting A LOT especially during hard song but it pays off

[@gazelle2263]

I'm auditioning for my undergrad next month and this video is helping me so much thank you!!!

[@ThatViolaKid]

+gazelle2263 I'm so happy it helped you! That's why I made it! Best of luck :D

[@miakaat]

Your practice stream was so great, I found it so helpful! Can't wait to see more streams from you in the future

[@ThatViolaKid]

+mia rose Awww thank you! I wasn't sure if it was something that would resonate with you guys! I'm glad you enjoyed it!!!!

[@Lilyymayfield]

This actually makes me feel better about life because I began in 6th grade as well and my parents are constantly telling me I can't make it. I'm in 9th grade now and it's still my goal. Thank you!!!

[@lalalalaaAa123]

It was great hearing your experience! I didn't realize how similar a musicians audition is to an actors audition; I was nodding my head the whole time like "yup. I know the feeling." even though my "instrument" is my voice and body LOL!

[@ThatViolaKid]

Hahaha art is art =)

[@LillyBGxx]

Thank you for posting this video, like genuinly thank you. I've been researching as much info on juilliard since hours and this kind of calmed me down. I'm only 14 and i've been playing the guitar since 8 years and i've been singing since basically forever, and going to juilliard would be a dream. Only problem is that i have major issues about not feeling/being good enough, so thank you for uploading this and calming me down

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Lilly BG I'm really glad to hear that! You have plenty of time, so no need to stress!!!

[@paranormaloddities3080]

I started playing viola when I was 10! Now I'm 14 and I'm starting to learn the Hoffmeister viola concerto!!! I love your videos!!!!

[@katiebrown9984]

Auditioning at Indiana tomorrow for an MM in viola performance! Thanks for the video!

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Katie Brown You're welcome!!! Break a leg, and lemme know how it goes!!!

[@forkfour4634]

How did it go?

[@batmanplaysthecello1455]

Great video! I play cello (I started in 6th grade too) and I hope one day ill get into Juilliard!

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Batman plays the Cello Thanks!!! Keep working hard for it! =D

[@doctor_elefant]

Thanks for your videos, man. I can only dream of going to Juilliard :/ I never received training whatsoever and i can't even afford a proper concert flute - I have to make do with the recorder I have had since high school. That I don't have that much support from my folks, and being from Australia really doesn't help my cause. But, hey, watching your videos, hearing your tips and feeling your optimism helps me get by. Being depressed and battling anxiety, having no support for the things I love doing, it's tough to follow through with wanting to make something of myself. But at least, through watching your videos, I can keep my dreams organic and grounded to reality and not be too far away. Just really want to thank you, man. I'm probably talking incoherently. Just really want to send gratitude because your videos are helping me get through. Maybe I will get into a music school. I don't even know how to read or write music, but, hey, at least I know I can play by ear haha that's a better start than nothing.

[@ThatViolaKid]

+JV S I'm wishing you all the best man! Never give up hope!

[@in0the0darkness]

I started learning the violin when I was 16 (I am now 22), and it was just too hard. In September 2015 I started studying at the Birmingham Conservatoire (in England) and it was so intense for me. I lost my confidence, I admit it. And then I dropped out. It was too difficult for me and I gave up. Well, after that I decided to just work a normal minimum wage job and 2 days into the job I realised I don't want to do this. Not for the rest of my life. I missed performing. I missed playing with people on a stage. So I made the decision to start my undergrad again but somewhere else instead. But my postgrad I'm aiming to study somewhere amazing. Life is annoying like that. You don't realise you want to do something until way late. Either way I'm glad for you and all the hard work you put in. It's hard, but you kept a positive attitude in the end. Well done.

[@ThatViolaKid]

Thanks homie. Trust me, I've wanted to quite more than you'd probably think. The trick is to always remember your why. Why do you play?? Why is it important to you? You're never gonna love everything about anything, and that's totally okay :)

[@in0the0darkness]

+ThatViolaKid I believe you. You don't get results like that without putting sweat and blood and doubts into something with everything you've got. It's just so hard to remember why. When things get tough your first instinct is to just give up. The strong ones survive and come out the top. I thought I was strong, but not anymore. Now I'm just trying to do the best I can. Thanks for the positivity :) I'm trying my hardest to remember why I fell in love with the violin in the first place and to always keep that feeling in my heart (so cheesy but true). And hopefully, someday, I'll stand on that stage and completely own it.

[@SD_honeybees]

I can't wait to show your videos to my girls. My Sophomore is a violist and my Junior is a violinist. You have great videos. Keep it up!

[@ThatViolaKid]

Thanks Carrie! =)

[@wezajamison-neto1905]

You've strongly Inspired me!! I've started spamming so much practice especially now because I know how hard it is to get into SUCH A GREAT MUSIC SCHOOL. I'm a Sophmore and I've made 2nd in District, 5th in Region, and I was the Bass Trombone for District Jazz. I'm feeling so close and still working toward All-State. I see so many other good musicians and especially during the audition of any kind so I feel like there's so much as a statistic in the number of other Trombones I have to pick up.😥. This relaxed me, because I practice so much but I've never the kid who just plays EVERYTHING perfect all the time

[@DauntlessCats]

Thanks for making this video! It really boosted my confidence. I can relate to your story a bit. I started playing violin when I was 11 in the end of sixth grade, but I hated practicing and I never progressed. Then, I watched this anime called "Your Lie In April" and it motivated me to become better at my violin! At this time, I was still in choir and 12 years old. I'm now entering 8th grade and auditioning for All County and Junior Regional. I did orchestra camp this summer and I improved a lot more. I finally got vibrato down and still working on shifting. Thanks man!

[@vaporlav]

I love Your Lie In April! I watched it when I was in 8th grade (last year) and it really made me want to take music more seriously. I started playing flute in 6th grade and now I'm a freshman. I want to practice a lot more but I hate practicing when my family is home, so I have to get over my fear of them hearing me practice if I want to improve at all. Good luck from a fellow musician!

[@DauntlessCats]

+Sam Andy Thank you! Also, don't be afraid to practice around your family! They will be proud hearing you improve over time. At first I was scared too, but I got used to it. They will too. Good luck on flute!

[@vaporlav]

Dauntless Cats No problem! Thanks for the encouragement!

[@ThatViolaKid]

Loved that anime. So sad :(

[@Alexa-jk3oh]

Thank you so much, Drew!! I've been feeling extremely discouraged lately and this video was so helpful :')

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Smithy Smith I'm soooo happy to hear my video made you feel a bit better

[@brianjay12]

This was so awesome! every one of your videos always lights a fire in my soul and makes me want become better and disprove every tuba stereotype!

[@nadiaplaysmusic]

Loved this video, very informative! :) came to this after watching your day in the life video on the julliard KZbin channel!

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Nadia Oh wow! Awesome!! Well, welcome to the channel! I hope you enjoy!

[@ilovecupcakes203]

Thank you for posting this- your videos are seriously just so motivating and it's really encouraged me

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Patil I'm so happy to hear that!!! :D

[@Happyloser87]

Hey I'm from Mexico and next month I'm going to Boston conservatory for a course and it's really helpful to hear your stories ;) thank you! Muchas gracias :P

[@ThatViolaKid]

+idalia bravo De nada! Es un placer ;)

[@MrTherooster97]

Thank you for making this video. It provided insight and motivation to practice and work harder :D I'll be there one day hopefully, fingers crossed

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Franklin Carmona Definitely! I'm so glad it helped!!! Keep your head up!

[@fabiocaetanofigueiredo1353]

Thanks for sharing your priceless experience bro 👏

[@molliemazile4485]

I’m only in 7th grade and I play flute I made the top band in my school and I started last year I made All-Region band and I got 1st chair I’ve been watching your videos and I really want to go to Julliard and I just want to say you are my inspiration in life. :)

[@mignonneduplessis161]

Dude! You really really inspire me😌 thankyou for your videos. I am going to audition and i’ll remember this 😄

[@somecrazyfangirl2314]

I really want to go to Julliard even though I'm literally only in 8th grade. I'm a singer I've been taking lessons for about 4 years and i plan to continue. I also play a few other instruments including piano and violin. I also act. But in a few years I'm definitely going to audition and music isn't my hobby it's definitely my passion and it's my life

[@izzyletourneau4029]

Some crazy fangirl I'm pretty sure Juilliard doesn't have musical theatre so you could do just your instrument or just acting

[@ricochet4674]

Seeing that you got in to Juilliard makes me believe I can if I put in the effort.

[@juriyun198]

Classical guitar audition this Thursday, thanks man 😊

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Juri Yun Best of luck!!!

[@livedaringlyy]

I love how passionate you are💖

[@rachelelfman2769]

I am auditioning for Juilliard in a couple years. 🙋🏻‍♀️🎻 I am nervous lol (I will be a sophomore in high school this year. 😂)

[@betaniajohnny209]

This was so helpful !! I'm applying this year to be in the Bachelor of Music programme at Juilliard, but... *plot twist* as an international student! I'm from London !! :)

[@youzhang5018]

update>?

[@lolvickyy]

I started playing when I was 11 (almost 3 years ago) and my ultimate goal is to get to Juilliard one day and this video has brought me a little bit of hope so thank you :)

[@ThatViolaKid]

+lol vickyy I'm so happy to hear that! Keep workin hard!

[@evequigley9586]

I live in europe and im unable to move to the US for pre-college training for juilliard. However, there are programs like that in my country. Would Juilliard still consider me if I didn't attend their pre-college training?

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Eve Quigley You'll be fine!!! You don't have to move to the USA! Just audition for college--the Pre-college program is nice, but you won't be overlooked if you don't attend it!

[@jilllivingston7935]

This is a great video I play the viola and also started in 6th grade and my dream is to go to Juilliard! It’s fun to see that even if I don’t have a crazy amount of experience that I can still get it

[@ThatViolaKid]

Hi Jillian! It's true, but, I did have four years of undergraduate experience before I auditioned for Juilliard, so I was at a much higher level than a high school graduate!

[@jilllivingston7935]

ThatViolaKid Oh that makes more since because you are very talented for just being a high school graduate haha thank you for the info :)

[@sammyy9223]

Thank you so much for this:) You have contagious passion.

[@ThatViolaKid]

Thanks for watching!!!

[@sammyy9223]

+ThatViolaKid omg you replied! Thanks for posting! You have a new fan right here:)

[@scarlettgallery8992]

Hi TVK, I've just found your channel today! Love it! I was wondering if you could make a video in relation to memorisation of pieces, and how to deal with a memory blank while performing?

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Scarlett Gee It's in the works ;)

[@scarlettgallery8992]

Awesome, I'm looking forward to seeing it! 😱😃🎶

[@kevinvalle6711]

Hi, Drew! I know I'm kinda (just kinda) late, but great video. I know I still have 3 years, but I want to go to Julliard, and you're my inspiration :D

[@ThatViolaKid]

+kevin valle Awww haha thanks man! I'm wishing you all the best!

[@catherinegray1584]

Sweet video! I also auditioned for my masters/viola on March 4 2014, at 3:45pm - I ended up getting in as well (!!!!!) but didn't end up enrolling... I wonder if there is any way we met at the audition? That day is incredibly hazy for me (nerves, right?) but I do remember meeting someone in the warmup room before I played... I really hope we did meet, because you are super cool and I'm sure meeting you would have cheered me up on that stressful day. It is a shame we didn't get to study together! Regards, Cate

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Catherine Gray Hi Cate!!! It's very possible that we met--you seem kinda familiar. Where did you end up going to school?

[@catherinegray1584]

Oh my gosh, I didn't see your reply until now going through old google notifications... I ended up at Yale and then transferred to McGill University... now I work at the Canadian Opera Company Orchestra! Where are you at now?

[@azarialaina6803]

You inspire me the most. Thank You❤️

[@raghuvardasmusic]

If I play La Campanella, then what will be my impression?

[@jenniferterrell8415]

This is so encouraging. Thank you!

[@angelasproject1386]

Thank you for making this video!!! It inspired me a lot !!

[@faithkerekere7958]

Hi, I am hoping you could do a video, on how to get in to listing to classical music, where to start? for example: the terminology, of songs, what a musician + Artist wrote/ played?

[@dvstnh]

So did you get into the other schools that you adutioned for? And also, where did you go for your undergrad studies?

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Dustin Hobin I got into 3 of the 4 schools I auditioned for. They will remain nameless..haha. I went to the Robert McDuffie Center for Strings at Mercer University for my undergrad!

[@aimbotjimbo4343]

I started playing piano at 12!!! I did my grade 2 that year and got a high distinction! Then my piano teacher noticed I was improving a lot and I also got a distinction on grade 4! Now I am 13 and doing my grade 5! I’m in the UK but I will try to go to Juilliard

[@leoluo05]

Ok you're actually such a great KZbinr!

[@AnooshVafaei]

Love your videos man ! you should make a vid about your haircut

[@ThatViolaKid]

+CALIXNATIVE Hahahaha really? That'd be the shortest video ever xD

[@caleb1016]

Now, I’m only 14, but when I practice, I practice every time like it’s leading up to an audition. When I get to work with my teacher, I try to make it feel like I’m auditioning to get into my school again. All you can do when you practice is do your best, and really listen to what your teacher is asking from you.

[@kiaraeijo]

I just graduated and now I'm in the process of doing grad school auditions. What do you think would be the best way to prepare yourself mentally for auditions? :)

[@ThatViolaKid]

Perform your rep as often as you can. Put yourself in situations that make you nervous--over and over and over again

[@Fi2pianist]

Thankyou for sharing your experience and helpful tips ;A;

[@amberdedecker6156]

Thank you for this inspiring video

[@MabelJoan]

This is a good insight of an audition! I am majoring in Classical Vocal Performance here in Malaysia for my Bachelors (final year omg!), but really interested in doing my masters overseas (either in the US or UK). Not sure to do my masters in vocal performance or pedagogy yet, but am really interested in it! I feel I have not much time in preparing myself at all as I started really really late in singing (singing just for 4 years now). What do they look into during the audition? Do they look into grades very deeply? How is the school life and curriculum there? sorry for the bomb of questions! :)

[@ThatViolaKid]

+MabelJoan If you want to see what school life is like, be sure to check out a video called "A Day In the Life." It can be found in my Juilliard Video playlist, or on Juilliard's KZbin page. As for grades, they don't prioritize them over performing capability, so don't stress too much

[@faithmiller6470]

can you do a video on the sign up process to Juilliard or your interview

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Faith Miller I did a video on How To Get Into Juilliard!!! Have you seen it?

[@competitionsubmission7329]

this is so inspiring! i started violin at 9 and i had a pretty bad teacher until i turned 11 and then i got into a conservatory and switched to a great teacher and i have improved so much in 1.5 years. when i was eleven, i played vivaldi concerto in a minor first movement, and now i just finished playing sarasate's ziguenerweisen. obviously i am proud of myself but i have so much doubt about my college. juilliard is my dream school but i can't pay for the tutition and i don't think i'm good enough to get a full scholarship. IM SO SCARED AUGHH

[@ThatViolaKid]

Don't be afraid!!! =)

[@violaisreallycool]

Amazing the progress you’ve made! Hopefully you’ve already went there and got out the wonderful experiences and skill that such a conservatory can give!!! :)

[@ayammayaartist]

Have you ever had a viola malfunction before at a performance? any tips on how to prepare for the unexpected (bridge flying off, bow hairs exploding, etc.) during a performance?

[@ThatViolaKid]

+FlowersforEleanor My only advice is to just play through it if at all possible! I once had my chin rest break in half right before my concerto competition. Like...in the green room right before I went to play. It was also the day before my Eastman audition...so yeah. I still won the competition and got into Eastman, so nothin is impossible :)

[@VampirexEva]

I SAW YOU ON THE JULLIARD SITE! YOU REALLY MADE ME WANT TO GO LIKE I REALLY WANT TO GO BUT IM REALLY NOT GOOD AT VIOLIN

[@geometriccircle1276]

I've been wondering about the importance of scales and how to practice them. I know they're important but I'd like an explanation why and how to practice them to get the fullest experience.

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Geometric Circle Scales are basically used for a few things: they can help you develop a good hand frame so that you won't have to think about the intonation of each individual finger/note, they help you build good default fingerings for flourishes and runs in every key, they are useful to use when doing bowing exercises instead of just open strings, they really help you develop an ear for intonation in every key (an e-flat in e-flat major is VERY different than an e-flat in f minor, for example), and they are a GREAT way to warm up and get your fingers moving before you start practicing! :) Scales will make you better faster than anything else you'll ever do.

[@annag1638]

I am the principal cellist in my high school "advanced" orchestra as a senior. I am very nervous about college (as people usually are), but I know very little about the prep for these schools. I began playing in my eighth grade year, but I have never taken private lessons or any other lessons except at my school. I am trying to audition for another professional orchestra this year, but I'm skeptical about going to school for music, because, as I've been told (and I assume others have been told this), so many people try to make it in the industry and fail. I don't know where to even start with the prep for these applications and auditions. Could you maybe elaborate on the class or lesson you mentioned in the beginning of the video? You mentioned some sort of mentor or teacher and I'm really worried that not having any experience other than school (and a short summer sight-reading orchestra which is the same one I am auditioning for during the school year) will make my chances slimmer and prevent me from competing with those who have taken lessons. Thank you for this video and your time! Congrats on your huge accomplishment!! -AG

[@ThatViolaKid]

I would go to your local university or symphony orchestra and look for a teacher there! They will be able to help you through the steps and necessary prep for college auditions! You don't have to go to a conservatory at first! Just get into college =)

[@PryingTuna85649]

Lol, I love your videos. You do such a good job of being both entertaining and informative! EDIT: I just thought of a question for you like the minute after I posted this. When I played, I found that I only got to that point of knowing a certain piece to where I could play it kinda "in my sleep" without nerves bothering me, etc, when I had practiced and studied it so much that I was burned out and sick of it. Like to a point I couldn't stand to play anymore. Is that how you felt with your best audition pieces? If so, how did you handle it? If not, how did you keep yourself from getting to that point? I remember playing the Stamitz Concerto until I could vomit in high school...and the Bloch Suite until I could vomit in college, lol. Oh, and I also wanted to say that while bananas don't help with the nerves. the potassium in bananas can help with/prevent cramping. On a microscopic level, calcium attaching to muscle fibers causes contraction, and potassium releases the contraction. Maybe no one cares, though...I'm a big A&P nerd, so I can't resist, lol.

[@ThatViolaKid]

+PryingTuna85649 I never got sick of the pieces because I never really practiced them mindlessly. I was always actively trying to say something. And when I was no longer convinced with an interpretation, I tried to discover new ways of phrasing! That way, when I'm performing, I have choices as to how I want to say something rather than sheer robotic replication

[@PryingTuna85649]

+ThatViolaKid Did/do your teachers ever try to keep you from doing a certain phrasing? Maybe it's different in undergrad school, but my teacher always said I was doing something wrong. Telling me I was doing something wrong with technicality, I could understand, but I couldn't always understand about the phrasing. I'm not sure if he was trying to teach me how to phrase or what...it never came through in all his "why are you here you shouldn't be a music major" speeches in EVERY SINGLE LESSON. But oh well. I also don't think I would've had the balls to keep my options open regarding phrasing on stage. I'm too introverted and froze up too easily. I can say I definitely did have a bit of a disconnect with the instrument regarding saying something emotionally. Well, over time I felt like there was a disconnect...probably courtesy of my college teacher. I didn't feel that way in high school. My college teacher was such a bad choice on my part...I already had very little confidence, and his teaching method involved completely breaking down his students mentally and emotionally by telling them they don't belong and they are wasting their time (he constantly had students crying in his lessons). But since I already had very little confidence in myself and I was very insecure, it really just had the reverse effect on me. Which brings me back to how I admire people with the mental strength to withstand people who tells them they can't. I try to be like that, but it's still hard to this day. Being a perfectionist only amplifies outside sources of disapproval.

[@Smoke---]

Listening to this story had me fidgeting feeling so nervous for you 😭😭

[@fireignitus9767]

that's it I'm going to try out for this school some day.

[@lilmcchick4968]

I got a cello for Christmas!! I love it so much! I really want to learn to play, but do you think it will stop me from mastering the viola? I do play orchestra at school as viola. So... What do you think?

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Raul Arzate If you want to master an instrument, any other instrument will distract you. I can say from personal experience that playing the cello messes up my viola technique big time haha

[@lilmcchick4968]

+ThatViolaKid ;( I love the cello too much to let go. Do you think i could at least be just half as good as you? Even if i do play two instruments, i dont need to be like an expert like Yo Yo Ma or Beethoven, lol.

[@ThatViolaKid]

Raul Arzate I don't know man! It's up to you!! You can be as good as you wanna be! If you wanna be half as good as me, you won't need to work THAT hard ;)

[@lilmcchick4968]

+ThatViolaKid Lol, you're an amazing violist. Im just worried that if i play cello, i'll forget how to play viola or I'll loss interest in it. Which i dont want :( I love them both. Ill make sure to practice a lot with both of them and not to just leave one sitting there. Cant wait for my first rehearsal for honored orchestra! :)

[@lilmcchick4968]

+ThatViolaKid Happy New Years!! 💥💥💥🎉🎉🎉

[@andreabaca7919]

OMG! you're so brave! I want to get into Julliard but I dont know if im that good. What monologue you used for the audition?

[@purpleknight1396]

Region orchestra is in only two weeks and I'm already freaking tf out. Barely made the district band las year and I still didn't get into my high school's wind ensemble the beginning of this year, but maybe I'll do better and get up there.

[@bethanymclean2136]

This is so long ago, so I understand if you don't remember, but do you remember when you heard back Juilliard prescreenings? I'm also applying for a master's and the waiting is killing me 😬

[@faithmiller6470]

ton 4real here when your are in the audition at juillard do you start with your piece you want to and also do every movement you play do they stop you to tell you what they want to hear

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Faith Miller I don't remember honestly. I think it's safe to err on the side of caution and prepare every movement and play whatever they ask for

[@codymcalister8502]

I'm also from Georgia and I'm curious if you had any struggles moving to New York, I just got out of high school and I'm a little worried about living on my own in a different state hundreds of miles away from home, so did you also have any of these fears or anything?

[@ThatViolaKid]

I didn't have that many struggles. I'm a very independent person by nature! :) It just matters who focused you are!

[@Mira-uy8qc]

I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS!!!!!!!!

[@ThatViolaKid]

Thank you so much!

[@JoshuaElmoreBassoon]

Hey! Thanks for posting the video 😄 About how many hours did you practice going into your Juilliard audition? And how did you handle the stress leading up to the auditions?

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Josh Elmore (JustAnotherBassoonist) I don't really remember. I just remember practicing every day. It's never about quantity. It's about quality! I was always super focused and had clear goals in mind every time I practiced, so that's all that really mattered. And I handled the stress (it's in the video :P) by making a plan and having a recital before all of my auditions--as well as performing in studio class. I got nervous enough times in situations without real consequences (other than embarrassment) so that when the time came for my audition, I could cope and perform through the nerves.

[@pamreno3573]

I'm a freshman in high school right now and I've been considering Julliard ever since I found out it existed. I play two instruments in school, and obviously I won't be able to play both after I start college, so when do you think would be the best time to finally decide on one? I've been playing the viola since 5th grade (age 10) and the oboe since 7th grade (age 12).

[@ThatViolaKid]

I would suggest you focus on one as soon as possible and then go ALL IN! You'll be competing with people who've done the same :)

[@sugasfacemoles]

I'm so sad i stopped playing flute for about 3 years. I love to play it, but idk why I stopped; and now I want to be really good playing to maybe get into Juilliard. But in 4 years,eh i won't be so good

[@patriciadiaz5697]

hello! I am going to take cello lessons soon cause my goal and future is juliard I wanted to know in your opinion I do home school and I would finish school at 16 should I go to Robert McDuffie center for strings before juliard to prepare?

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Patricia Diaz It can't hurt! It's a great school! :)

[@guerrero4982]

I got so nervous when you started on the warm up.

[@ThatViolaKid]

Me too tbh...lol

[@katew3661]

How did you know you wanted to go to a music school? I play violin and am learning cello, and i would love to go to a music school i think, but im still dont know what i want to do when im older. So i was just wondering what kind of thing you want to do when you leave juliatd and what juliard can teach you in general. Thanks :)

[@olive3790]

Hi there! I find your videos incredibly helpful, and I've basically learned Viola alongside them. Now, as I move into a more advanced instrument, I want to find a Viola that will carry me further. What Viola do you use? Thank you for everything :)

[@ThatViolaKid]

+olivia t. I use a viola that's based off of a Lionel Tertis model! When you start getting into more advanced instruments, brands don't really play a big part. What I would suggest is that you visit a violin maker and try out the instruments they have!

[@olive3790]

+ThatViolaKid thank you so much for the reply! I was actually thinking about getting a tertis, they have such a deep, cello like tone!! I am going next week to a Viola luthier and im super excited. Keep up the amazing work, and thanks again :)

[@ThatViolaKid]

+olivia t. My pleasure!

[@dominikablackrose1364]

Does juilliard look at your highschool grades?, do you need good grades to get in?

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Sabrina Vallejo Not really. They do...just to make sure you're not a big-ole dummy. They care WAYYYY more about how you play though

[@dominikablackrose1364]

+ThatViolaKid ok, thanks, :)

[@rawrcakes7]

Did you ever do district/regional/state festivals during high school? I'm about to go to district orchestra on horn :)

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Siena Flora Yeah! Plenty of times! Have fun!!!

[@rawrcakes7]

+ThatViolaKid Thanks! How far did you get, states or all eastern, anything like that? :)

[@ThatViolaKid]

I never hear do all eastern haha. I just did all-state

[@rawrcakes7]

Oh okay :) That's amazing!

[@bellaleah3123]

Hey! I'm auditioning for the Juilliard pre-college program for voice, and I get REALLY nervous for auditions. It's my dream to go to Juilliard, but I never do well at auditions. No matter how prepared I am, I just get so scared at auditions. I know how it feels to perform, and not feel nervous, and just rock it. I just wish I could feel like that during auditions, and not just performances. Do you have any advice?

[@ThatViolaKid]

+isabella miller I think your block is simply mental. If you can perform well during performances, you can perform well during auditions. It's all about how you think of things. Honestly, just view auditions as performances. Get detached from the outcome and just show your stuff!

[@bellaleah3123]

+ThatViolaKid Thanks for your advice! I will try to think of that at my auditions. I love your attitude. Thanks for making these videos. They're really helpful!

[@hyekyung9586]

It is very helpful video for me!! Actually I have a question about practicing during the audition.when you audition in juilliard, where do you practices??

[@PKTarik]

Hey man! can you tell us about how to train your rhythm feel,how to play in time etc.?

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Tarık Ayyıldız I'm not sure how to explain it. All you have to do is practice with a metronome!

[@carolinaferreira4377]

Hi I'm a 14 year old student named Carolina. I've lived in South Africa for about two years now but I am Portuguese. I've had the dream to be accepted into Julliard for about two years now. I am doing grade 6 ABRSM this year and hopefully do my grade 8 in grade 11. I just wanted to ask you if you have any advice for what standard to expect for the auditions, and what I should work on for the next few years🙆🏼☺️ P.S love your videos they are really inspiring💕

[@ThatViolaKid]

+Carolina Ferreira I'm not sure what you mean by standard! Are you talking about playing level? I'm not really sure how I would be able to describe it, but I wouldn't worry about that too much. Just try to be the best you can possibly be!

[@blrjihn3019]

I really love Juilliard

[@josuekoenig1723]

Do you guys recommend double dipping on your prescreenings? Like if I wanted to send the same recording to 2 different schools?