A typical smartphone, or a computer with a built-in microphone and camera will suffice for making a video with satisfactory images and sound
Camera Frame and Microphone Placement
Since, in most cases, your camera and microphone are inone device, you may need to experiment to achieve the following results:
Visual elements
- You should be well lit, with no bright windows or other light sources behind you or in the frame.
- The camera should face you so that we can see you playing your instrument. Be certain that you are centered in the frame of the camera, and that the entire instrument is in the frame. The exception to this is the snare drum. We would prefer a profile shot so that you are not blocked by the music stand.
- Dress neatly and limit visual distractions in the camera frame.
Audio elements
- A clear and undistorted recording is your goal. If the sound is distorted, change the distance to the microphone. You may need to try another location in which to make your recording.
Perfect or “Good Enough?”
Correct rhythms, pitches and tempi are musical elements that you can, and should record correctly, but absolute perfection is not always attainable. Your goal is to send recordings that you feel accurately demonstrate your ability, with as few misplayed notes as possible.
Editing and “takes”
Please note that specific information for each video take for percussionists is incorporated into the audition instructions page
Upload your recordings
Upload your videos to the cloud storage of your choice (google drive, dropbox, etc) and send share links of your recordings to music201@tcnj.edu. Put your name and “audition videos” in the subject line of the email.
Be sure that the share settings of your drive will enable others (with the link) to access your files
Download “How To Record Your Audition” – Percussion
For questions or more information about recording your audition, contact the Percussion Area Coordinator, Prof. William Trigg trigg@tcnj.edu