Choosing songs:
- First time auditioners should choose songs they already know well. We want them to feel as comfortable as possible with what they are singing, knowing they'll be nervous enough being the first time.
- It's best to choose a song from a musical or Disney movie.
- Consider what musical you're trying out for when choosing a song. Don't use a song from that musical, but in the same or similar style of the musical you're trying out for. If you're not sure, search youtube for some high school performances, like this one.
- Find books with CDs like this one, you can practice with that have many songs that you know to choose from. You'll get your money's worth, the more you know & use.
- Find songs in your vocal range; not too high, not too low. Do choose a song that shows how high you CAN sing or how low.
Once you've chosen your song:
- Cut it down to 1 minute. Find the 60 seconds of the song that will show what you've got the best and not seem abrupt coming in or finishing. Have an adult help with this.
- Listen to the demo for the first 5-10 times until you know it well enough to do it with only the accompaniment.
- Copy the accompaniment song onto a blank CD so that it's the only song on the CD. You might want to make a few copies: for the car & for your room.
- PRACTICE EVERY DAY!!!
The way you practice is the way you'll perform it! So remember to practice with these things in mind:
- Sing the notes' full value. Never cut a longer note short, and vice versa. Hold those whole and half notes out and show off your tone!
- Sing at full volume! Don't scream or push too hard, just sing at the highest volume your voice will allow to show that you can sing to the little old lady on the back row of the auditorium!
- Sing so she can understand every word you sing! It's so important to spit out the words! Use every muscle in your mouth to enunciate the words. Even if you can't carry a tune, spit out the words. This shows that you can also speak/act on stage as well!
- Memorize your words and make sure every note is on pitch before adding movement.
- Act out your song! Use hand motions in simple ways. I suggest one per phrase.
- Express your song's emotions on your face! Use your eyes. They are your biggest asset. If your eyes tell the story, the director will want you for a part. Eyes are important!!!
- Practice your audition in front of a mirror. Watching yourself might enlighten you on how you actually look, rather than what you thought you looked like!!
- Practice in front of an audience. Ask family & friends to listen as you perform and ask them to gently and kindly give you advice on what to fix and how to make your audition SHINE!!!
- Practice walking onto stage, smiling at the judges & introducing yourself. Announce your name, your age & the song you are singing. You are being auditioned from the moment you walk on stage. Have fun! Be yourself! SMILE!!!
Audition Day:
- Warm-up & sing through your song a few times, but don't tire your voice singing it all day.
- Drink water to stay moisturized. Stay away from cokes, pop, sodas...
- Choose an outfit that pops! Look like you care how you look. Make your eyes shine, by choosing a complimentary color...something that uniquely says "you".
Audition Time:
- If you watch others audition, don't compare yourself or your song to others. God made you unique and no one else can do what you can! Judges are looking at you for a specific part. Be who you are, so they can give you that part accordingly!
- Look at the back wall. Don't think about what the judges are doing or writing. You have no idea what they are thinking, so don't try. Just do your best.
- Pray. Ask God to calm your nerves, give you courage and strength to do your very best. He will! He gave you this gift and wants you to shine like the stars in the universe, so give Him your best!
- Remember that God already knows what part you're going to get, so leave it in His hands. Encourage others when they get the part you wanted, the way you'd want to be encouraged if you'd gotten it. (I've personally been on the end of meanness from girls who wanted the part I got. It hurts. Please remember that it's God who chose your part, not people, and give Him the glory.)
- Keep auditioning. Always have songs ready to use for your next audition. You will get better at it, but you cannot give up. Press on. Persevere. Have FUN!!!
