Hey, all professional oboists out there, I was wondering if the traumatizing experience of auditioning ever gets easier psychologically. For me, it has always been difficult. I heard that eating a banana helps because of the potassium, but for me, eating anything before I audition makes me want to throw up. I guess my two questions are (1.) Do you ever get used to it, making it "feel easier"? and (2.) What are your methods for easing the stress and anxiety before auditioning?

I normally find that i get reallly scared before hand but once the audition/exam has started, i calm down. Normally i would just breath slowly.

good luck (:

Usually, if you're well practiced, just warm up (do some runs, dynamics and notes in different ranges). After that try some breathing exercises. This helps to calm you down.