Monday, April 28, 2008

Auditions 101:

Wondering how to nail an audition?  The most important thing is choosing the best song for you.  It should be a song that shows off the best part of your voice and shows off your range.  The tone of the piece is also important.  It should reflect who you are and your strengths.   Are you funny, or dramatic?  Secondly, the piece should be something that you might actually perform, where you fit the part.  If you don't fit the look or the age of the person who is singing in the original context, it might not be the best choice.  The auditioner wants to envision you in the part, and if that is far-fetched, you are putting a strike against yourself. (If you are a scrawny white guy, don't go for Old Man River.)  Lastly, totally go for it!  Don't hold back, be as animated, dramatic, or comedic as you can.  You usually have less than 60 seconds to sell yourself at an audition, so don't hold back!   Also, pick something that no one else will perform, when in doubt, if it seems common to you, it probably is totally overdone to someone who listens to song auditions all day.  Pick something different.   As a general rule - choose something that reflects the time period of the show you are trying out for.  If the musical is contemporary, pick something contemporary, if it is Gershwin, go with a jazz standard, etc.  For children, do a piece that is age appropriate.   Don't do songs with mature themes!  This is a pet peeve of directors.  
Finally, if the auditioner asks you to do something different (can you play it angry, sad, etc.) prove to them that you can follow direction.  A director wants to know how teachable you are, show them you can deliver what they are asking for.

Good questions to ask before you audition:
1.  Will there be an accompanist and should I bring sheet music, or do I need to bring a CD with an accompaniment track?
2.  How long will I have to sing?
3.  Do I need to bring a monologue or be dressed for a dance audition?

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