What is Audition Playbook?

It started simple — a workbook for audition preparation.

I just wanted a repeatable template for myself.

I was starting to gain traction in orchestra auditions and getting organized — think Leslie Knope-level charts and binders. But every new audition felt like starting from scratch: new charts, new binders, new plans. It was exhausting.

So I built my own solution: a consistent framework I could use again and again. I wasn’t planning to share it — it lived in my binder and brain for a while. But with a little nudging from mentors, I released the first edition of Audition Playbook in 2018.

The first edition was self-published, printed, shipped!
With help from my assistant.

From binder to growing resource hub.

When it first launched, I built a rough one-page website in the hopes that someone (anyone?) would buy this book that I wasn’t even sure I wanted to share with the world.

But then I started interviewing folks “in the biz” and writing articles. That’s when I realized Audition Playbook could be — and was already becoming — something more. Beyond scratching a newfound creative itch, I found real joy in connecting with musicians about their experiences. Not just as audition-takers, but as freelancers, military bandsmen, students, teachers, meme-makers, side hustlers — you name it.

This site now has more than one page (thank you very much) and features a growing collection of interviews, articles, and free resources — all designed to support musicians at every stage of the journey — whatever that journey may be.

The Book

Product shot of soft blue cover book on gray background

Audition Playbook is an audition preparation workbook and guide.

For students and pros alike, Audition Playbook provides the framework for you to create and follow your own plan.

This is flexible tool created for all levels and audition types. From All-State and college entrance auditions to professional orchestra and military bands, the principles of structured preparation apply.

“Choose-your-own-adventure" planning

There is no one-size-fits-all template here. No fixed number of weeks or mandatory benchmarks. Use the ideas and structure provided to build your own plans for preparation and performance.

Experiment, tinker, adjust, and do what works best for you!