Practice, Practice, Practice!

Auditioning:  Being well prepared can make a world of difference in how smoothly and successfully you get through your audition,  Whether you are auditioning for a choral group, musical theatre production, commercial, choice school, college or a talent search competitions like, "American Idol", “The Voice” or “America’s got Talent”, you've got to be prepared! 

The word “audition” strikes fear in many performers.  However, that doesn't have to be the case. While some nerves are to be expected (it’s an audition after all), with the right amount of preparation, fear of auditioning can be a thing of the past…or, at least, much more manageable.  Preparation and practice are a MUST for a successful audition!!!

Here we will address the different components that go into a great audition:

• You’re appearance:  1st Impression (specific character or look).
• Obtaining professional headshots and a properly constructed resume:  I use a professional photographer that will ensure you are prepared with your headshots; and, I will work with you in building a full resume appropriate to the audition.
• Repertoire/Material: 2nd Impression (What are they looking for? Comedic or Dramatic Monologue? Musical Theatre or Classical Song (32 or 16 bars of music)
• Rehearsing: Setting up lessons, mock auditions, videotaping pre-audition, practicing your ‘slate’, and fixing bad habits (tilting head, non-motivated body movement, rushed speaking, etc...).
• Book/Binder: Your music should be clearly marked with begin and stop markings.  Pages should be double sided so the pianist doesn’t have to turn pages as much.
• How to prepare the night before the audition: Determine outfit/attire, items, directions, audition pieces to bring, etc.       
• How to prepare the day of the audition: Have an established warm-up routine. Get up early, vocalizations, warming up body, and leaving early.  Arriving at 8:00am for an 8:00am audition is LATE.
• What to bring: Headshot, resume, pitch pipe, copies of monologue and/or music.

If all of the above are addressed you should have a very successful audition.  Remember, you may not land the role you are auditioning for that day.  However, you may be perfect for their next upcoming project, film, commercial or stage production.  That is why being rested, energetic, and prepared is a must!

“Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.”  ~Alexander Graham Bell

---