Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique: Dos and Don'ts

This annotated PDF breaks down the harp part from Berlioz's Symphonie Fantastique (the #1 most frequently appearing audition excerpt!) with color-coded tips overlaid directly onto the score. The guide is designed to help a harpist prepare this excerpt specifically in an audition context. Green annotations show recommendations on what to do; red annotations point out common mistakes to avoid. Created by Katherine Siochi (San Francisco Symphony/San Francisco Conservatory of Music), this guide distills years of firsthand experience auditioning with this excerpt, as well as coaching other harpists on it and recognizing the most common pitfalls. It covers dynamics, rhythm, tempi, phrasing, technique, and interpretive suggestions to help you feel confident and prepared at your next audition.

*Please note: This PDF focuses on audition tips and interpretive guidance; it does not include fingerings or pedal markings.