The Best Audition Tips for Singers

    How do you ace a vocal audition?

    How to Prepare for a Singing Audition

    A vocal audition can be a nerve-racking experience, even for famous singers who have already auditioned countless times.

    Due to this stress, it is easy for some best practices to slip through the cracks.

    That is why we are here to give you the best tips and mindset to tackle your vocal audition and ensure that it is a success.

    Being properly prepared can make a world of difference in how smoothly  things go on audition day. So, let's get into it.

     

    Table of Contents:

     

    Sing Something that Compliments Your Voice

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    When you audition, you need to sing a song that you know and are comfortable with.

    Auditions are not the time to sing an experimental piece or try a new song. 

    Instead, choose an audition song you’re well-versed in singing. Also, make sure it's well within your range.

    Now, that doesn't mean you should pick an easy song. You still want to highlight your talents and vocal qualities to wow the judges. Just don't set yourself up for potential failure.

    Maintain a Healthy Singing Voice

    As a vocalist, your voice is your instrument.

    Musicians take care of their instruments by keeping them in cases and undergoing routine maintenance.

    You need to apply the same principles to your vocal cords. Remember to take care of your instrument, or it won’t work properly. You should even consider what foods and drinks to consume before singing.

    Some things you can do to take care of your voice are doing proper warm-ups, singing from your diaphragm, resting your voice, performing breathing exercises, and staying hydrated.

     

    Know the Audition's Requirements

    Before you worry about anything else, you have to know detailed information about the audition.

    What talents and vibe are the audition organizers looking for? What is the next step after the audition? Should you have two songs prepared or one?

    These are questions you should be able to answer. It's critical that you understand the objectives of the audition and what purpose it serves in the greater scheme.

    Do they emphasize the musical skills, vocal, singing skills, styles, or the characteristics and the appearance of the singer?

    If you're not sure, it won't hurt to reach out. Asking ahead of time does not make you look bad. Rather, it gives you more time to accurately prepare for the audition.

     

    Believe in Yourself

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    It's kind of cliché, but if you don't believe in yourself, who will?

    You have to believe in yourself and your vocal skills.

    This self-confidence should be constant and acquired through intensive practice and preparation.

    The music industry will eat you up if you don't believe in yourself. Doing your best will provide you with the confidence that you need.

    This is the "it" factor. Move on the

    stage like you own it.

    Captivating body language and appropriate facial expressions mean a lot to your success.

     

    Engage Your Audience

    When you get to your audition space, be your natural self. Let your personality come out.

    Don't try to be someone you aren't, but you don't want to appear robotic and boring.

    Before you start singing, you want to capture and keep the judge’s attention in a friendly and respectful way.

    Once you are ready to audition, the judges have probably already seen countless performers, so you need to do something to wake them up.

    The easiest thing to do is smile and make eye contact with each judge. Utilize your space and let yourself feel the music.

    The best type of singing is passionate singing. If you care about what you're singing and want to convey that to the judge, passion is the way to go.

    A simple way to do this is to think about the lyrics and what emotion the songwriter intended to elicit.

    Just be careful not to overdo it or get cocky. Always stay professional and respectful the entire time while having fun.

     

    Dress Appropriately

    Always be sure your attire is in synergy with your song and audition.

    Don't wear hard rock attire if you're singing a ballad.

    Sometimes flashy colors may be disadvantageous to you, depending on your performance. Other times they are just what you need.

    Basically, what we are saying is to use discretion and fully understand the audition requirements, as we mentioned above.

    More often than not, you want the judges to remember your performance, not your clothes. After all, it is a singing audition, not a fashion show.

    Base your attire on what you're auditioning for, and if you aren't sure what to wear, soft colors are best.

    If there's an established and preferred dress code, follow it. Don't try to stand out by breaking the rules.

     

    Thank the Judges for Their Time

    Part of leaving a good impression on the judges is thanking them for their time.

    Be sure you're remembered as someone who is friendly, appreciates the opportunity, and is easy to work with.

    Kindness and gratitude will get you far and help you stick out in a crowd.

    And if you're lucky enough to get constructive criticism on the spot, make sure to put your ego to the side and consider their suggestions.

     

    Bonus: 4 Virtual Audition Tips

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    We live in a day and age where if something can shift to a virtual space, it likely will. Vocal auditions are certainly no exception.

    If you're interested in a vocal competition or a music school and need to submit a vocal recording as your audition, follow the tips below.

    1. Audio Quality

    You don't need your recording to be in a professionally sound-treated room, but try to eliminate outside noise and distractions as much as possible.

    The last thing you want to do is submit a video where you can hear a fire truck siren or a loud dog barking in the background.

    2. Make Sure You're Framed Well

    Your vocal techniques won't matter much if you're head is out of the frame.

    If the camera is too close or far away, your performance will feel cramped or distant.

    Set up your camera so that everyone watching can see your face. If you are also playing an instrument, make sure it's also in the shot.

    Do a few quick trials and take a look at the framing before you commit to recording a full performance with your current setup.

    It's better to spend a little time upfront perfecting your shot than nailing a great audition only to realize that the top of your head was out of frame the entire time.

    3. Consider Your Lighting

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    When filming your audition, the first thing you need to think about is your lighting.

    The judges and the audience need to see you clearly. If you can, take advantage of any natural light you have.

    If you don't have any natural light, LED ring lights are available at most big box stores now.

    These lights are cheap, and if you’re going to be regularly recording your performances and uploading them online, they add a professional quality to your videos.

    4. Use a Good Backdrop

    Your choice of backdrop is entirely up to you but think of it as a way to market yourself as a performer and express your personality.

    Some singers put music-related objects behind them or a string of lights on the wall to make it seem like an event.

    You can also decorate according to the event, school, competition, or musical you are auditioning for. Look into the audition songs and see if you get any ideas from the lyrics.

    Little things like that can really help you stand out. Try to avoid a messy background or recording in a random room like your bathroom.

    Start Your Career at an Accredited Music College

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    When it comes to a successful audition, all of the above are important. Remember, practice makes perfect. So if you have a few bad auditions don't let them discourage you. It's just preparation for future auditions.

    Are you looking to get a competitive edge?

    Do you want to learn the best singing techniques? Or receive hands-on vocal education from industry-leading instructors?

    If so, you need to check out Atlanta Institute of Music and Media.

    AIMM offers two exceptional singing programs, including:

    • Music and Technology Associate Degree: Voice Concentration (if you have any interest in learning how to track, mix, and master music - this is ABSOLUTELY the program for you)
    • Performance Certificate in Vocals

    These programs are guaranteed to elevate your singing skills and help you stand out from the crowd. Not to mention all of the networking opportunities and industry connections you'll make.

    Put yourself in an immersive music atmosphere where music and singing will always be your number one focus.

    If you're a passionate vocalist and this opportunity sounds amazing to you, click below to discover how AIMM can benefit your singing career today.

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