Vorspielen

Vorspielen is a term used primarily in German-speaking contexts to describe the act of performing musical pieces in front of an audience or an evaluative panel in order to demonstrate a musician’s abilities. The process is commonly used for auditions to obtain places in conservatories or music schools, to win positions in professional ensembles such as orchestras or choirs, or to qualify for competitions. While most often associated with instrumental and ensemble music, it can also refer to vocal or theatre-related auditions conducted in a musical context.

Etymology and usage: Vorspielen is formed from vor- (before, in front of) and spielen (to play or perform on an instrument). It contrasts with the overture sense of Vorspiel (the musical prelude) and with Vorsingen, which is specifically a singing audition. In practice, Vorspielen denotes the act of presenting prepared repertoire to a jury or decision-making panel.

Procedure and assessment: In formal settings, candidates are typically invited to audition after submitting credentials. They perform a set repertoire, which may include standard excerpts, scales, or etudes, often chosen by the audition committee. The panel assesses technical control, tone quality, intonation, rhythm, musicality, and stylistic understanding. Some auditions also include sight-reading or a short, unprepared section. Outcomes range from admission or advancement to a subsequent round, to rejection, or remaining on a waiting list.

Variants and related terms: While most common in classical music contexts, Vorspielen can occur in other competitive artistic fields within German-speaking regions. Related terms include Vorspiel (prelude) and Vorsingen (singing audition). In English-language contexts, the equivalent term is typically “audition, mounted by playing.”