Audition Post Template

Finding the right band member starts with attracting the right candidates. This template helps you create compelling, honest audition posts that filter for fit while attracting quality musicians.

Why Your Audition Post Matters

A Good Post:

• Attracts musicians who are actually a good fit
• Filters out poor matches early
• Sets clear expectations from the start
• Saves time in the audition process
• Reflects your band's professionalism

A Bad Post:

• Wastes everyone's time
• Attracts wrong candidates
• Creates confusion about expectations
• Makes you look unprofessional
• Results in poor turnout

Essential Elements of an Audition Post

1. Attention-Grabbing Title

Format: Position Wanted for Band Type/Genre - Location

Examples:

• "Lead Guitarist Wanted for Gigging Rock Band - Brooklyn"
• "Drummer Needed for Original Indie Project - Austin"
• "Bass Player Wanted for Established Cover Band - Chicago"
• "Keyboardist Sought for Jazz Fusion Group - Portland"

2. Band Introduction

Who you are, what you sound like, what you've accomplished

3. What You're Looking For

Specific position, skills, and qualities needed

4. Commitment Level

Time requirements, rehearsal schedule, show frequency

5. Logistics

Location, rehearsal space, equipment needs

6. How to Apply

What to send, where to send it, deadline

Complete Audition Post Template

POSITION WANTED FOR BAND TYPE - LOCATION

About Us:Band Name is a genre band based in location. We've been together for timeframe and have accomplishments: released EP, played X shows, built following of X, etc..

Our sound is description - be specific. Think reference bands meets reference bands. You can hear us at website/streaming links.

Current members:

• Instrument: Name, brief background
• Instrument: Name, brief background
• Instrument: Name, brief background

What We're Looking For:

We're seeking a position who:

Musical Requirements:

• Specific skill level: e.g., "5+ years experience"
• Technical requirements: e.g., "Comfortable with odd time signatures"
• Style requirements: e.g., "Strong background in blues and rock"
• Specific skills: e.g., "Backing vocals a plus"
• Equipment: e.g., "Professional-quality gear"

Personal Qualities:

• Quality 1: e.g., "Reliable and punctual"
• Quality 2: e.g., "Collaborative and open to feedback"
• Quality 3: e.g., "Positive attitude and good sense of humor"
• Quality 4: e.g., "Professional communication"
• Age range if relevant: e.g., "25-40 preferred"

Commitment Level:

Rehearsals:

• Frequency: e.g., "Weekly, every Tuesday 7-10pm"
• Location: e.g., "Rehearsal space in Downtown"
• Flexibility: e.g., "Occasional additional rehearsals before shows"

Shows:

• Frequency: e.g., "2-3 shows per month"
• Type: e.g., "Local venues, occasional regional travel"
• Advance notice: e.g., "Usually booked 4-6 weeks out"

Other Commitments:

• e.g., "Monthly band meetings"
• e.g., "Social media participation"
• e.g., "Recording sessions as needed"

What We Offer:

• e.g., "Professional rehearsal space with backline"
• e.g., "Equal say in creative decisions"
• e.g., "Show income split equally"
• e.g., "Established booking relationships"
• e.g., "Supportive, drama-free environment"

Logistics:

• Location: Specific area/neighborhood
• Rehearsal Space: Details about space, what's provided
• Equipment Needs: What you need to bring
• Start Date: When you'd like them to start

How to Apply:

Please send the following to email/contact method:

1. Brief introduction (who you are, your background)
2. Links to audio/video of you playing
3. Your availability for rehearsals and shows
4. Any questions you have for us

Application Deadline: Date

We'll review applications on a rolling basis and reach out to candidates we'd like to audition. Please no phone calls.

Example Posts by Genre

Example 1: Rock Band (Serious Hobby)

LEAD GUITARIST WANTED FOR GIGGING ROCK BAND - BROOKLYN

About Us: The Midnight Riders is a 4-piece rock band that's been playing together for 3 years. We play a mix of classic rock covers and original material - think Foo Fighters meets Tom Petty with a modern edge. We've released one EP, play 2-3 shows a month at venues around Brooklyn and Manhattan, and have a solid local following.

Current lineup:

• Vocals/Rhythm Guitar: Mike (15 years experience, writes most originals)
• Bass: Sarah (10 years, strong backing vocals)
• Drums: James (20 years, toured with several bands)

Check us out: website | Spotify | Instagram

What We're Looking For:

A lead guitarist who:

Musical:

• 5+ years playing experience
• Strong lead and rhythm skills
• Comfortable with both covers and originals
• Can learn songs quickly
• Backing vocals a major plus
• Professional gear (tube amp preferred)

Personal:

• Ages 28-45 preferred
• Reliable and communicative
• Team player who's open to feedback
• Good sense of humor
• No drama, no egos

Commitment:

Rehearsals: Every Wednesday, 7-10pm in Williamsburg. Occasional Sunday afternoon sessions before big shows.

Shows: 2-3 per month, mostly weekends. Local venues (Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens). Occasional regional shows (Philly, Boston).

Other: Monthly band meeting, help with social media, recording sessions 2-3 times per year.

What We Offer:

• Rehearsal space with full backline (you bring your guitar and amp)
• Equal creative input on originals
• Show income split 4 ways after expenses
• Established relationships with local venues
• Supportive, professional environment
• We actually like each other and have fun

Logistics:

• Rehearsal space in Williamsburg (near L train)
• You'll need: guitar, amp, cables, pedals
• We provide: PA, mics, drums, bass rig
• Looking to start: Mid-December

To Apply:

Email midnightriders.band@gmail.com with:

1. Brief intro and your musical background
2. Links to video/audio of you playing (live preferred)
3. Your typical weekly availability
4. What you're looking for in a band

Deadline: November 30th. We'll contact candidates for auditions in early December.

Example 2: Jazz Band (Professional)

UPRIGHT BASSIST NEEDED FOR WORKING JAZZ QUARTET - CHICAGO

About Us: The Chicago Standards Quartet is an established jazz group specializing in classic standards and original compositions. We maintain a busy performance schedule including weekly residencies, private events, and festival appearances. All members are professional musicians with extensive performance and recording credits.

Current members:

• Piano: David Chen (Berklee grad, 20+ years professional)
• Drums: Marcus Williams (toured with notable artists)
• Saxophone: Jennifer Lopez (DePaul faculty, session musician)

Listen: website | Bandcamp

What We're Looking For:

Musical Requirements:

• Professional-level upright bass skills
• Strong walking bass and soloing ability
• Extensive jazz repertoire knowledge
• Sight-reading proficiency
• Experience with standards and improvisation
• Electric bass skills a plus for certain gigs

Professional Requirements:

• Reliable transportation
• Professional appearance and demeanor
• Strong communication skills
• Ability to learn repertoire quickly
• Comfortable with various performance settings

Commitment:

Regular Gigs:

• Thursday residency at venue, 8pm-12am
• 2-3 additional gigs per week (private events, clubs, festivals)
• Occasional out-of-town performances

Rehearsals:

• As needed for new material (typically 2-3 times per month)
• Individual preparation expected

Income:

• Weekly residency: $150/night
• Private events: $200-400/event
• Festival/special events: negotiated rates
• Income split equally among members

Logistics:

• Based in Chicago (Lincoln Park area)
• Must have reliable transportation
• Professional upright bass required
• Amplification provided at most venues
• Start date: January 2025

To Apply:

Send to chicagostandardsquartet@gmail.com:

1. Resume/CV with performance history
2. Links to live performance video (jazz standards preferred)
3. List of standards you know well
4. References from other professional musicians
5. Your typical availability

Deadline: December 15th. Auditions will be held in late December.

Example 3: Cover Band (High-Energy)

DRUMMER WANTED FOR HIGH-ENERGY PARTY BAND - AUSTIN

About Us: Good Times Band is Austin's premier party and wedding band. We play 90s/2000s hits, classic rock, and current pop - whatever keeps people dancing. We're a fun, professional group that takes our music seriously but doesn't take ourselves too seriously.

We perform 3-4 times per month at weddings, corporate events, and private parties. This is a well-paying side gig for professional musicians who love to entertain.

Current members: All experienced musicians (ages 30-45) with day jobs and families. We're looking for someone who fits that vibe.

What We're Looking For:

Musical:

• Solid, reliable drummer (not a showoff)
• Comfortable with click tracks and backing tracks
• Wide range of styles (rock, pop, funk, country)
• Good feel and dynamics
• Backing vocals helpful but not required

Personal:

• Professional and reliable (this is paid work)
• Flexible and easy-going
• Good with clients and event planners
• Appropriate appearance for weddings/corporate events
• Own transportation and professional kit

Commitment:

Gigs: 3-4 per month, mostly Friday/Saturday nights. Occasional Thursday or Sunday. Load-in usually 2 hours before start.

Rehearsals: Monthly rehearsal (Sunday afternoons) plus individual prep. We use rehearsal tracks and expect everyone to come prepared.

Learning: 60-song setlist to learn initially, add 5-10 new songs per year.

Pay:

• Weddings/Private Events: $200-300 per gig
• Corporate Events: $250-400 per gig
• Split equally among members
• Paid rehearsals for new material

Logistics:

• Gigs throughout Austin metro area
• Rehearsal space in South Austin
• You provide: full drum kit, cymbals, hardware
• We provide: PA, lights, mics
• Start: February 2025 (time to learn material)

To Apply:

Email goodtimesatx@gmail.com:

1. Your background and experience
2. Video of you playing (any style)
3. Your typical availability (weeknights/weekends)
4. Why you're interested

We'll respond within a week to schedule auditions.

Example 4: Original Indie Band (Serious)

MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST WANTED FOR ORIGINAL INDIE PROJECT - PORTLAND

About Us: We're an experimental indie/folk duo looking to expand to a trio. Our sound blends folk songwriting with electronic elements and unconventional arrangements. We've released two EPs, toured the West Coast, and are working on our first full-length album.

Current members:

• Vocals/Guitar/Keys: Alex (songwriter, producer)
• Drums/Samples/Vocals: Jordan (also plays bass, keys)

Listen: Bandcamp | Spotify

What We're Looking For:

We need someone who can:

Musical:

• Play multiple instruments (bass, keys, guitar - at least two)
• Comfortable with both traditional and electronic elements
• Strong ear for harmony and arrangement
• Open to experimentation
• Recording/production skills a major plus

Creative:

• Collaborative songwriter (we write together)
• Brings ideas and inspiration
• Willing to try unconventional approaches
• Interested in pushing boundaries

Personal:

• Ages 25-35 preferred
• Serious about music but not precious about it
• Good communicator
• Emotionally mature
• Shares our values (progressive, inclusive, environmentally conscious)

Commitment:

Rehearsals: Twice weekly (flexible days/times) Recording: Regular sessions at home studio Shows: 1-2 per month locally, regional tours 2-3 times per year (long weekends) Creative: This is a collaborative project - expect to be involved in all aspects

What We Offer:

• Equal creative partnership
• Home recording studio access
• Established small but dedicated fanbase
• Booking agent and publicist relationships
• Split all income equally
• Supportive, drama-free environment

Logistics:

• Based in SE Portland
• Rehearse at home studio (Alberta Arts District)
• Some equipment provided, but bring your main instruments
• Looking to start: January 2025

To Apply:

Email: alexandjordan.music@gmail.com

Send us:

1. Who you are and what you're about
2. Your musical background and what you play
3. Links to anything you've created
4. What kind of music excites you right now
5. What you're looking for in a musical project

No deadline - we'll know it when we find it. This is about finding the right fit, not filling a position quickly.

Checklist: Essential Information to Include

Must Include:

• Position you're filling
• Your genre/style
• Your location
• Rehearsal schedule
• Show frequency
• How to apply
• What to send

Should Include:

• Band background/accomplishments
• Links to your music
• Specific skills needed
• Personal qualities you're looking for
• What you offer
• Timeline/start date
• Application deadline

Consider Including:

• Age range preference
• Current members' backgrounds
• Income/payment details
• Equipment provided vs. needed
• Your band's values/culture
• Why position is open

Don't Include:

• Unrealistic requirements
• Negative language about previous members
• Vague descriptions
• Excessive demands without offering anything
• Personal phone numbers (use email)

Platform-Specific Tips

Craigslist

• Post in "musicians" section under "community"
• Repost every 7-10 days
• Include location in title
• Keep it concise (people skim)
• Use clear formatting

Facebook (Band/Musician Groups)

• Post in local musician groups
• Use engaging opening line
• Include photo or video
• Tag relevant genres
• Respond to comments promptly

BandMix / JoinMyBand

• Fill out complete profile first
• Use all available fields
• Upload band photos/audio
• Be specific about requirements
• Check messages regularly

Instagram

• Create eye-catching graphic
• Use relevant hashtags
• Post to stories and feed
• Include link in bio
• Engage with comments

Reddit (r/FindABand, local music subs)

• Follow subreddit rules
• Use proper formatting
• Be authentic and conversational
• Respond to questions
• Don't spam multiple subs

Sample Screening Questions

Include 2-3 of these in your application requirements:

1. Availability: "What's your typical weekly availability for rehearsals and shows?"
2. Experience: "Tell us about your most recent band or musical project."
3. Goals: "What are you looking for in a band right now?"
4. Commitment: "What does 'serious commitment' mean to you?"
5. Influences: "Who are your biggest musical influences?"
6. Gear: "What equipment do you currently own?"
7. Conflicts: "Do you have any upcoming commitments that would conflict with regular rehearsals or shows?"
8. Expectations: "What questions do you have for us?"

Red Flags in Applications

Watch out for:

• No links to audio/video
• Vague or generic responses
• Unrealistic claims
• Poor communication skills
• Demanding tone
• No mention of your specific band
• Copy-paste responses
• Doesn't meet basic requirements but applies anyway

Key Takeaways

1. Be specific - Vague posts attract vague candidates
2. Be honest - Overselling leads to disappointment
3. Show personality - Let your band's character come through
4. Set clear expectations - Save everyone time
5. Make it easy to apply - Clear instructions, simple process
6. Include your music - Let them hear what they're joining
7. Proofread - Typos look unprofessional
8. Update regularly - Keep posts current

Your audition post is often the first impression potential members have of your band. Make it count!