My high school orchestra director, Mr. D., told me about a high school cellist's humbling audition experience. This cellist, a strong high school musician, went on to perform and record professionally. Due to another commitment, she was unable to audition for a high school state ensemble at her scheduled time. Mr. D. told the cello audition coordinator, "Leave first chair open for (this person.)"
At the ensemble's venue, the coordinator revised Mr. D.'s remarks, telling him the committee left the last chair open for the cellist. Mr. D. asked how that happened.
"She didn't prepare for the audition," the coordinator responded. "No one does that."
You can have talent, and everyone can know it. The hard part is, you have to keep proving it.
