Preparing for a vocal audition can be an extremely challenging task, especially since the stakes are so high. The pressure to present the best ten minutes of your work can be existential, but with the right mindset and approach, it can be conquered. As a voice teacher, I often talk about the importance of fitness training, yoga, meditation, daily rituals, and personal habits that increase your sense of well-being and concentration. Every tick, tension, comfort, or discomfort affects your performance, and you are virtually naked onstage. Therefore, it is crucial to optimize every input that helps you feel strong and relaxed.
You are only human
When preparing for an audition, it is essential to consider all your senses and how they can help you perform at your best. You should also consider the logistical and organizational aspects of your audition and streamline all the little physical and mental demands. It would be best to engage in small talk with hotel staff or servers at breakfast or check-in, as this can make you feel at home in a new place. Additionally, you should greet the door-persons and staff in a friendly and open manner, and avoid long conversations with competitors at auditions.
You want to be used
To succeed in auditions, you need to think like an Olympian. Your performance stands alone, and it is up to the jury to decide who gets the prize. When you sing, the jury will judge you in terms of usefulness. Therefore, you need to apply the highest standard for beauty and expression, but remember that any jury is looking to use you. If you are the best at what you do on that day, they might find a use for you.
No 'Hail Mary's'
It is also crucial to avoid trying to make a sudden leap in auditions. Instead, make those leaps in practice and over-practice to make them routine. Over-practice means that you objectively know your music and text, and you know every technical adjustment you will have to make. You can sing it in your sleep, and you subjectively know and have experienced emotionally the flow and content of your arias so many times that you are in total control of your strongest and most subtle emotions.
You be You
In summary, preparing for a vocal audition can be an intimidating process, but with the right mindset and approach, it can be conquered. Remember that you are on a business trip, and you must be routined in your presentation. It is not about you; you serve the composer. Take detailed notes for the next audition so that you know what works best for you, and good luck!