In my opinion, it's not going to start in the high school for region, you have to start that in JH. About 16 years ago I began requiring it from the JH top group. We prepared their music in class and made sure they were taught it. (Not just throwing fodder out there) As the high school director now it's very evident that the kids get in the habit of auditioning then - which to me is the first step!

We have an 'Applied Music' class where they are required to try out for region in the fall, and do solo and ensemble in the spring. It's been our reliable way of building those players with a bit more one-on-one time available, and practice time for them during the day then.

You also have to teach students that anything is scary when they first see it, but if you take it note by note, chunk by chunk, you can learn it. That again to me is a process that starts in junior high, and really beginning band to me!

There is one person who has made XML files of ATSSB music and I think he did the TMEA music as well. If you have access to SmartMusic or MusicFirst that can be helpful to the kids. We've also purchased recordings from Dallas Winds and others that we've shared with the kids to practice with. I also point out that YouTube versions can be slowed down to help too.

One other thing that can help, especially if you know you're not going to be long in the playoffs, is to have a practice 'lock-in' event close to the auditions.