Preparing for Singing Auditions and Jobs Through Training
They say that Judy Garland never took a singing lesson in her entire entertainment career. But even if you've been told that you're the next Mariah Carey or Clay Aiken, better to play it safe and get your voice trained to prepare for singing auditions and voice acting jobs.
The reasons are simple: First, training will help you sing better and longer. It's like exercise for an athlete; you learn ways to stretch, strengthen and properly rest your voice. Also, vocal training teaches you to sing various types of music. Even if you grew up on pop or country music, you could discover that you have a talent or love for jazz, gospel, or even opera.
Formal training takes many forms. Many colleges and universities offer under- and postgraduate degrees in music. Conservatories teach a wide variety of singing styles from opera to pop to musical comedy to jazz. Many cities — particularly major centers — have vocal coaches who give classes or private lessons.
To take full advantage of the many venues that employ singers, you'll need training in more than voice. Film, television, musicals, and commercials (to name a few) require singers who know how to act as well. Enrolling in acting classes is advisable, as is putting aside time for one-on-one coaching.
In addition, there are specialists who teach about dialects and accents — both acquiring them and losing them. This skill can be absolutely necessary for some voice acting jobs. Some teachers and coaches specialize in preparing for singing auditions: what to sing in what situation, and how to sing it. Also look into teachers who focus on singing for commercials.
The value of on-the-job training cannot be overestimated. Beginning singers can practice their art at clubs that offer open-mic nights. Some piano bars allow singers to perform without pay. And many young singers take restaurant jobs as singing waiters. Local choirs and community theater, where everyone's a volunteer, are other arenas where aspiring singers can learn by doing.
LINKS
Examining Your Singing Goals
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Working for a Song
Cabaret is a life, if not a living.
Optimistic Tunes
Four West Coast musical theatre pros affirm that their arena is rich, despite growing pains.
Getting Cast in Today's Musicals On and Off-Broadway
We take a look at today's musical productions with an eye toward filling you in on what you need to know to get cast in them.
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