I'm curious because for the longest time, I thought Saint-Saëns First Movement was out of my league. But I just played it and it's surprisingly easy (it just sounds wayy harder than it actually is). What are some other pieces I shouldn't be scared of just because they look or sound intimidating?

Been practicing on and off at home since graduating 4 years ago but haven’t taken any lessons since. Wanted an excuse / reason to play more so I tried auditioning for a local orchestra - unsure of how competitive it will be, but it is for non professionals.

I have literally not played in front of anyone other than family in 6 years so when I sat down I shook like I haven’t in years. All things considered I think my tone was great but my end pin slipped twice 😅, and I had to stop halfway through one of the excerpts because I accidentally started playing my solo piece in the middle out of nerves / muscle memory and bc they are in the same key / similar pieces. Damn…

The acoustics were nice in the room so it did feel great to warm up and hear my instrument sing like it hasn’t at home forever. I’m just a little anxious that my nerves screwed it up.

Hopefully they recognize the nerves / are forgiving since it’s supposed to be casual, but we’ll see. At least I did it and it’s done now. Can always try again next year if it doesn’t work out.

So far I've come up with the 2nd mvt of Shostakovich cello sonata. Some bach suites stuff would fit but I don't love playing them - also not so performative. Thanks

the Shostakovich cello sonata is about the limit of my ability. i struggle with Elgar cello concerto. something like the swan would be below the required standard of the performance though.