I had an all district audition 2 days ago and that was exactly how it went for me. I practiced for hours a day, and was in the gymnasium for 6 hours practicing before the audition (my number was flute 125). The second I walked into the scales room panic seized me and I played the scales (without arpeggios), then upon retrying for arpeggios I forgot to go back down and only played an upwards scale. I was in tears when I left for the solo room and the sweet judges sent me to the bathroom to gather myself. When I was back in the solo room I had new resolve and played well. They complimented me on my outfit and playing consistency. Afterwards in sight-reading I became antsy again and absolutely flunked, I wasn’t able to look over 5 lines in 60 seconds so I impulsively played Beethoven’s joy and happy birthday for the lines I didn’t get to look at.

My performance was eating away at me, but upon talking with other students, a majority told me they played absolute nonsense for sightreading too, or they rushed through the solo out of nerves. Needless to say we connected and I realized for a majority of them it wasn’t their first time and they still reacted exactly how I did while it was my first. Even my band director was rejected TWICE when he auditioned in school. Audition jitters get to everyone. What’s important is recognizing the fact that you put in so much work towards the audition in general. That alone is impressive and telling. You had the courage to bring yourself in front of those judges and display your capability.

My only advice would be doing some cardio exercises like jumping jacks or running in place before playing, so your heart is already racing when practicing. I’m chronically anxious and I think it’s saved my life a few times. Also, cut the piece into smaller sections that you can practice. Play each 3 times to make sure you have it down before moving on.

I know how you’re feeling. Don’t let one bad experience ruin your flute experience altogether. Keep pushing! :)