How do I set up my recording device?

We strongly encourage you to make a test video to familiarize yourself with your technology, check sound levels, and troubleshoot in advance of filming your audition video.

There are several ways to best set up your recording device. In all instances, position yourself so that your instrument and your full person are visible in the video so judges can assess your technique and posture. This is easiest if someone helps you! 

• Smartphone/tablet:
  Record your video using the main camera on your smartphone or tablet, NOT the front-facing selfie camera. Set your device to film in landscape (horizontal) not portrait (vertical). Prop your smartphone or tablet on a stable surface to record you video audition. Use books, water bottles, a music stand, or any other objects to make a stable surface for your device. 
• Laptop/computer:
  • Mac: You can use any video recording app. All Macs come with the Photo Booth app pre-installed. You can find this by pressing command + space and typing “Photo Booth” in the pop-up search field. Then, click on the Photo Booth app. Visit Apple’s Photo Booth User Guide for more help on using Photo Booth, including how to record a video and how to save your video.  
  • PC: You can use any video recording app. All PCs running Windows 10 come with the Camera app pre-installed. To open your Camera app, select the Start button, and then select Camera in the list of apps. Visit Microsoft’s Support Page for more help on using the Camera app.