Amplify Residency: Video Application & Audition Guide

Everything high school applicants need to know to record, prepare, and submit their 90-second video application for the Amplify Residency.

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The Amplify Residency Video Application Guide contains all the instructions and criteria students need to complete their video submission for the upcoming Residency. We care far more about your heart, teachability, and commitment than fancy video editing or flawless execution—grab your phone, record your clip, and send it in!

1. Key Dates & Submissions

Application Window: Opens Friday, September 11th and closes Wednesday, September 16th at 11:59 PM (Midnight).
Where to Apply: Submit via the Application Form.
Upload Methods: Upload your phone video file directly (MP4/MOV).

2. Video Structure (90 Seconds Max)

Part 1: Music (45–60 Seconds)
Acoustic Guitar & Keyboards: Play 4–6 chord changes or a basic melody along with a metronome set to 80 BPM.
Vocals: Sing a chorus of any song you love (with or without a backing track—make sure your voice is the loudest audio element).
Percussion: Tap out a steady 4/4 groove on a cajon, drum pad, or desk along with a metronome set to 80 BPM.
Part 2: Heart Prompt (30 Seconds)
Turn the camera to face you and answer: "Why do you want to join the Amplify Residency this fall, and what’s one musical skill you’re eager to grow in?"

3. Application Evaluation Rubric

Heart & Mindset (40%): Genuine response to the heart prompt, eagerness to learn, and excitement about joining a team.
Rhythm & Musical Basics (30%): Steady timing matching the 80 BPM metronome and clear audio where your part is audible.
Commitment & Reliability (30%): Willingness to commit to Thursday night rehearsals, weekend sessions, and weekly 15-minute "Studio Prep" assignments.

Audition Tip: If you mess up a chord or hit a wrong note while recording, don't stop or restart! Smile, keep going with the metronome, and finish strong. Showing how you recover from a mistake tells us far more about your heart than a sterile, over-edited clip.

Key Takeaways / Bullet Highlights:

90-Second Limit: Keep it simple—phone recordings are encouraged, and no advanced video editing is needed.
80 BPM Click Track: Instrumentalists and percussionists must play along with an 80 BPM metronome.
Heart Over Perfection: Teachability, commitment, and desire for community weigh more heavily than flawless technical skill.
Deadline: Applications close Wednesday, September 16th at 11:59 PM.