AUDITION TIPS

Auditions can be a daunting prospect, even for the seasoned professional singer. Choosing what to sing and wear is always somewhere on the singer’s “worry list!”

Those of you who have never attended an audition before need to be aware that you can be waiting for awhile before it is your turn to perform. This in itself can be stressful so it is important to prepare yourself!

Choosing Songs
There is little point singing a new song or one that you are unsure of. Your performance will lack conviction and under stress you may forget the words! Any song used for audition purposes should be one that you have memorized and feel confident singing under any circumstances including unaccompanied.

Choose material that is suitable for your voice and the type of audition you are attending. In some cases you will only get to sing part of a song so avoid tracks with long instrumental introductions.

When auditioning for musical theater, always choose a song you know well that displays your vocal range and versatility. If a list is not supplied and you are aiming for a particular part in the show, unless instructed otherwise, avoid singing songs from the show itself, instead choose material from shows of a similar style and caliber that reflect your capabilities. If you are auditioning for a Broadway musical, it is best to sing a song from another Broadway musical.

The song should not only suit your voice, but also the type of audition you are applying for. The song must suit the type of part, show or competition for which you are entering.

What to Wear?
There are no strict rules, but considering you may be waiting around for awhile before you perform it is advisable to wear a comfortable outfit. When the audition requires dance skills as well as singing ability, it is wise to wear clothes that allow freedom of movement and dance shoes should be packed as you may be expected to do a separate audition for the choreographer.

Avoid thin heels and watch where you are going - tripping up may make a memorable impression, but not the one you intended! Clumpy heels and platform shoes/boots have a tendency to make the performer look awkward and should be left at home!

The clothes you wear should not interfere with your ability to sing. Constricting or tight outfits will prevent the singer from breathing and projecting effectively so a balance between looking good and being comfortable has to be found.

Accompaniment
Examine the requirements that have been provided by the company or director running the audition. Check the type of accompaniment provided, if any. Are you allowed to use backing tracks, if so what type of players are provided, i.e., cassette decks, cds, etc. Will there be an accompanist provided? You should avoid singing a cappella if possible, especially if accompaniment is available.

Be Prepared
Competition will be fierce and you should expect there to be an extremely high standard of performers. Even if this is not the case, you should be prepared to sing and perform to the very best of your ability. This includes knowing your songs, having sheet music/backing in the correct key for your voice and being capable at performing in front of strangers under unusual and stressful conditions.

When using audition tracks on cassette tape, line up the track so that it is ready to play before you leave home. Ensure that the cassette is clearly marked with your name. If using sheet music, mark it with your name and where you are starting. If you have an opportunity to discuss your music with the accompanist before you are due to audition, take it! This saves time and prevents mistakes occurring at the audition. Read the audition requirements carefully and don't be afraid to call and check with the organizer if you have any queries.

Know The Audition Requirements
Make sure to comply with all direction you are given (the number of bars to prepare, style of selection, music for accompanist, memorization of selection, etc.). You will greatly increase your chance of being considered for a role if you choose your audition selection wisely and comply with audition rules. Important consideration: Don't pick a song with a very difficult accompaniment if you want the pianist to be able to play well for your audition.

Looking Confident
There are ways of appearing confident, even if you feel like a bag of nerves!

1. Do a few relaxation exercises before you are required on stage. Take a couple of deep breaths and exhale slowly when you are called to calm yourself before proceeding into the audition room.
2. Walk gracefully or stride across the room/stage with purpose, keep your head up and look where you are going.
3. Wear clothing that is comfortable and enhances your appearance.
4. If an accompanist is provided, take time to greet them before starting and thank them after your performance (even if they don't play the tune well!).
5. Face forwards and look at (or slightly above) the audience/judges/examiners who will indicate when they want you to start and stop you when they have heard enough.
6. When you are ready to start your audition, say hello to the auditioners and provide them with a brief introduction to the song you are about to perform.
7. Concentrate on the music and your performance. Do your best.
8. Don't fluster or stop if you make a mistake, continue as if nothing happened.
9. Be yourself
10. Smile!

If the auditioners comment on your performance, don't answer back or be rude in return. By all means ask questions, but remember, you may encounter these people again at another audition, alienating them will destroy any future possibilities of selection purely because of your attitude.

At the end of the day you still may not get chosen for their project. Don't be disheartened by this. Review your performance and work to improve any weaknesses. In many cases the Director is looking for a certain “sound” or “look” which they feel they will know when they see or hear it. Just because you are not what they are seeking for this project, does not mean that you will not be chosen for a future project at another audition by the same company/Director.

Tips for Terrified Auditioners
1. Memorize the selection.
2. Bring music for the accompanist to play.
3. Sing your best 30-40 seconds of a song, but be prepared to sing the whole song if you are asked to sing more.
4. Be able to explain to the accompanist where you will start and end, preferred tempo, and where you will need time for breaths.
5. DO NOT apologize ahead of time for being sick, late, forgetting music, etc. Any good director will know if you are sick.
6. Do not expect to be able to sing with a tape or CD unless noted in the audition notice/information.
7. Be polite and positive, not pushy, and don't rush out of the audition.
8. Dress nicely and comfortably, and if you know you will be dancing, wear appropriate clothes and shoes.