5 Tips on How to Succeed at a College A Cappella Audition
Joe Morris is a guest author. In preparation for spring semester auditions, he shares with us his tips for successful a cappella auditions. If you happen to be interested in online dating, Joe also is the owner of Best Online Dating Sites where you can find more of his articles that cover topics about safe dating and relationships.
You’ve got a voice that some might compare to the sound of angels and a stage presence that would put even the most seasoned performers to shame…so you’re thinking about taking these star-quality assets to college with the hopes of joining an a cappella group. Great! Except for the fact that the word “audition” alone is enough to send you into a panicked frenzy that has the possibility of transpiring into cardiac arrest. To avoid such a fate and to excel at your audition, keep these few pointers in mind:
Tip #1: Get plenty of rest. Before you wow the judges and take a well-deserving spot in a college a cappella group, it is dire that you prepare by getting ample amounts of rest. In the days before the audition, try to get a full eight to ten hours of sleep each night. To maintain those killer vocal cords of yours, remember to drink plenty of water. Say no to any alcohol which will dehydrate you and negatively impact your voice. While you’re skipping certain drinks, also avoid milk and orange juice as they can cause phlegm build-up in your throat. You have got to be in top physical form!
Tip #2: Understand that you have to blend your voice. However great you sound solo, remember that you are auditioning to be a member of a group so you must be able to sync your sound with your potential fellow members. While classical training helps, a cappella groups are not necessarily looking for an operatically trained voice. Of course, you’ve got to be able to carry a solo part, but the group will be looking to add someone who can blend in with their unique sound and harmony. Be a team player and don’t worry about being the best singer.
Tip #3: Recognize that ear training is crucial. To test your ability to hear different tonalities, at your audition you might be asked to sing back a progression of notes that the group will play for you. They might also play a series of chords and ask you to find and sing the middle note. Voice lessons prior to your audition may be useful to help you master your technique, but they may not be helpful with ear training or musicianship. Ear-training tends to take a longer-term effort. To develop the perfect ear for singing a cappella, try listening to a variety of genres and periods of music, practice chords at the piano and take classes on music theory.
Tip #4: Know that groups are looking for personality. Remember when going into your audition that a cappella groups are not only looking for a great voice, but they are also looking for a personality fit and someone who will be fun and outgoing. This is your opportunity to showcase your stunning personality and stage presence. You may be asked to give a joke to see if you blend with the social dynamic of the group. If you’re shy or nervous about being on stage and performing in front of people, try to enroll in a few acting classes that can help to bring out your inner performer!
Tip #5: Keep a positive attitude. It is important that in your endeavors to become a member of a college a cappella group that you always remain positive and keep a level perspective. If you aren’t chosen as a member of the group for which you auditioned, not to fret. Sometimes a rejection has nothing to do with you…the group could have been looking for a different voice, a different sound or a different social fit. If you are continually being rejected, look into classes and practice your vocal technique, ear training and musicianship.
Now that you have the tools you need to succeed in your college a cappella audition, relax, enjoy the experience and sing like you’ve never sung before!