By Kristopher Kyer
Very often I get asked “What song should I sing for this audition?”. I was mentored by a genius in this, Michael Sartor. He was the Dean of Musical Theater at AMDA before he passed away a few years ago. He had several successful actors on Broadway and in many venues due to his “coaching” for audition songs. I think a lot of what he taught me stuck, and so I pass it forward.
From my experience, do not learn a new song for a specific audition, unless you have much ample time to learn and perfect it. Of course, you don’t want to sing a standard “ballad” if it says “up tempo / contemporary/rock.” You shouldn’t be at the audition in the first place if this is not your style of singing or show. I often use the same songs that really typify my particular talents. So many performers choose songs because they like them. This is totally wrong. Many songs just don’t fit your personality or voice. I always have my book of songs ready and with me, and I always know the songs backwards and forwards. Walk into the room professionally, greet the panel with a personable hello, and walk straight to the accompanist and hand them your sheet music. Music should not be in a binder. It should be taped together, so he/she does not have to flip pages! If you have any specific instructions for the pianist.. Keep them concise and quick. I always look at the panel, never over their heads. I want them to see what is going on behind my eyes.
And those my dear fellow performers, are some key tips on a giving the best musical audition you can.
Actor/Director Kristopher Kyer is a regular contributor to VC On Stage.
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