Here are some of the 46  “do’s and “don’ts” to help you chart out your audition preparations and increase your likelihood of success.

  • Do: Take some time to assess your level of expertise and determine your objectives. By doing so, it will be easier to decide on the appropriate steps to help you to reach your audition goals.
  • Do: Ensure you have adequately developed your vocal technique so that: you can sing in tune, are able to sing phrases with an accurate rhythmic feel and have a sufficiently developed range to sing with emotional expression and without physical restriction.
  • Do: Prior to answering casting calls and audition ads, decide on the following: What do you hope to gain by auditioning? Do you just want to gain experience with the auditioning process or are you ready for a high-level group of total profession­als? Are there particular styles of music or shows that you are unwilling to be involved in? If you need to further hone your skills, you may want to audition for less demanding groups or situations that allow you to work toward a professional level.
  • Don’t: Never compromise. If you can’t sing a certain song well; if it doesn’t suit your style and showcase your strengths, don’t do it.
  • Don’t: Never sing a song that you either don’t really know or don’t like. You can’t “sell” a song that you don’t believe in.
  • Do: Select a key that allows your voice to shine. You don’t have to sing a song in the original key. With each song you sing, first experiment with different keys and find the one that presents the best qualities of your voice.