Prepared Song

You will need to prepare a piece of music to play during your drum audition. It should be around 3-5 minutes in length.
Berklee College of Music recommends that you play :
  • Song from a well known artist
  • A standard jazz piece
  • Transcription of a drum/snare solo



A lot of people would advise against playing a Rush or Dream Theater song as too many kids play this already. I am not saying the you shouldn't- many people who do play those kind of songs for their audition do get it (example video below) however playing something original/ different can raise your chances or receiving a scholarship.  Your best bet would be to play a transcribed solo or straight jazz. If your not into jazz then i suggest an R&B  or funk tune. Bands like Tower Of Power and Earth Wind and Fire etc.

Make sure you choose a song that best shows off your technical skills but also your ability to express through music. Dont just play, FEEL!

Here is a video of a guy playing Paradigm Shift by Liquid Tension exp. He got in, but without a scholarship. 








You have to understand that you  need to be different and well rounded. You should play something other then what the auditioners hear every other drummer play.
Impress them.
Prove why you should be chosen to study at their school.




Good Luck!!