Advertise your audition with detail. Post information online or at local music venues stating what type of musician you want. Include the types of music they will need to play, or the specific skills they must possess. Give contact information so that prospective band members can get in touch with you.
Record first impressions. Before a person performs, jot down notes about whether they were on time and if their appearance was appropriate for the audition. Ask the person for a brief self-introduction.
Ask the musician to perform at least three songs of differing styles. You will want to hire a musician who is versatile in his or her musical skills.
Take notes concerning the musical quality of the performance as the person performs. Also note the individual's stage presence and overall performance abilities (such as poise, communicated emotion and ability to invoke a response from the audience).
Conduct a brief interview in which you ask questions that relate to a person's musical background and work ethic. You might want to ask some of the following:
What prior musical experience do you have?
Which styles of music do you personally prefer?
Why do you want to join this particular band?
What is your strongest point musically and your weakest point?
What is your availability in terms of time restraints and scheduling (for practices and performances)?
Ask for references from previous employers and fellow musicians. A reference from a non-musical position can be helpful as well, because you might learn about a person's general job performance.
Explain when and how you will get back in touch with the candidate to inform them whether they were awarded the position within the band or not. Once you have auditioned all of the prospective musicians, be as prompt as possible when notifying everyone of their acceptance status.