[iamearl]

An organization in my area is going to be putting on a version of West Side Story, and I am auditioning for a part. I would hopefully like to be Tony, but I need some advice on a song to sing. As of right now, I have chosen "This Is the Moment" from Jekyll and Hyde. I love the arrangement my coach has arranged, but the problem is, he had to take it down one half step. I can't seem to hit a G#, but I can hit a G. I was wondering if anybody had any advice for a song to sing, and which role you might think would be better for me, if not Tony?

[JIJane]

We can't judge what role would be best for you as we have never seen or heard you. However, the song from Jekyll & Hyde is not appropriate as it's modern MT and you are auditioning for a classic musical. I suggest you choose a song written between 1940 and 1965, better yet two contrasting ones, a ballad and an uptempo/character. Also - NEVER change the keys of a song because you can't hit the top note. If you can't hit it, sing something else otherwise it will just be a negative memory for the panel that you couldn't hit that note, hence had to transpose the song down.

[LisaKitty]

One other thing to think about -- if your range tops out at a G, you might want to consider another role. I'm pretty sure Tony has a couple of high As he has to sustain.

[iamearl]

Even though Tony has to hit some A's, the funny thing is I can hit those with the music from West Side Story. It's when I sing that other song that I can't go that high. Well, I can, but it's my falsetto, and it sounds weird to transition for one note, that's not even a full beat. I have worked on breathing exercises and I am slowly creeping up on that G#. What I'm hoping is to hit that note.

And I would change my song, but the auditions are too close. I don't want to risk it, especially when I feel so secure with one of my songs. It could jeopardize everything I have built up to so far.

[Hanniel!]

I have (of course) never heard you sing,
but I can tell you from personal experience,
do not sing a song you aren't comfortable with.

Auditions are a time for you to show yourself at your strongest,
so I would definitely pick something that isn't too high or too low,
something that's at a nice medium for your voice.
If you're "slowly creeping up" to that note,
it's great for practice and voice lessons,
but not when you're at an audition.
Just think about trying to hit that note when you're nervous!

Don't worry about getting Tony,
just show off your voice and let the directors make the call.


Break a leg!