VOCAL AUDITION PREPARATION

Once you've set an audition date and time with the school, spend some time preparing before the audition so that the teacher can evaluate you as best possible.

Tips Before You Leave:

• Bring a long room-temperature bottle of water, and your backing track on your phone while dressed comfortably.

• Arrive a little earlier.

• You should have rehearsed your songs(s) with an 80% accuracy.

• Memorised lyrics is important but you can keep your lyric sheet with you as a back up.

What Will be Evaluated:

The teacher will be completing an audition form listing all the elements of vocal development and give you a mark for each of the three categories below

The following categorized skill level will be evaluated:

1. MUSICIANSHIP:

a. Song choice must suit your age and range / style – make sure your song is within your natural preference of singing as your voice will respond better to the melody.

b. Intonation / Pitch – rehearse being aware of your inner voice – if you’re off pitch close your one ear, so you are in touch with your inner voice matching the pitch of your instrument or track.

c. Tempo accuracy – make sure you are falling in at the right spots with your backing track or live accompaniment and that your lyrics are sung within the rhythm of the music.

d. Feel for rhythm style – for various time signatures, an adjustment must be made with breathing and singing techniques.

e. Dynamics (lyric emphasis) – this needs planning on your lyric sheet – where you’re going to sing softly, loudly, short notes, long notes or use scoops or delay for effect.

2. PERFORMANCE (DELIVERY):

a. Memorize Lyrics and the structure of the song – at least one verse and a chorus to start.

b. Plan your Interpretation – be creative with your use of facial expression, expression with hands and arms and body rhythm. Try and be as authentic as possible without being too dramatic.

c. Poise / Body Language – how you stand, walk and sit must match your song style, rhythm and song structure

d. Dress appropriately for the occasion and the style of music you are going to perform. Being elegantly dressed always keep the attention upon your interpretation and not on your revealing outfit. Avoid high heels. Do not use elaborate or noisy jewellery.

e. Stage Presence – decide how you want to interpret and tell the story of your song. Tune into your genuine emotions about the song. Do not be afraid to have a feel for the dramatic if needed.

f. Transparency / genuineness – be yourself, do not try and copy the original artist if you’re singing a cover but do not forget that your musicianship and vocal skill is mostly being evaluated in an audition as delivery can always be worked on.

3. TECHNICAL ABILITY. If you've never had voice training before, your natural technical ability will be discussed and how we can improve on that. As lesson time progresses, the elements of technical ability will be taught and demonstrated.