My audition rubric includes a score in an unexpected category: willingness.
Specifically, we wrap up my Shades of Blue audition with vocal improvisation – something many auditionees haven’t done. So, after a number of students got particularly scared – or even refused to try – I revised my rubric. I give scores on three things: note choices, rhythmic vitality, and willingness.
Just being willing to try is a great trait to have in auditions and it ought to be rewarded. We can keep working on the rest!