Even if you’ve picked out the perfect song to sing for your audition, it’s normal to feel nervous! But take a deep breath — if you’ve got the below 11 things down pat, you’re on the right track… 

Auditions are a fact of life for a serious singer. After all, they are the job interview for the performer! If you’re wondering how to prepare for a singing audition, I’m here to help you with some important singing audition tips.

Although auditions can seem daunting, there are plenty of things you can do to feel confident. Here are 11 signs that you’re going to rock your vocal audition!

1. You are rested.

True, it may be harder in this day and age to get the suggested eight hours of sleep every night, but the more quality sleep you have the night before, the better! A relaxed body means better sound, as there will be a lot less tension.

2. Your materials are together.

This means your sheet music is in the right key and clearly marked for the accompanist. The pages are also back-to-back and neatly organized in a binder. If you’re using sound files, they should be easily accessible and cued up at the correct time.

3. You know your lyrics backwards and forwards!

Confidence is key, and knowing that you REALLY have your songs down pat will help you soar through the audition!

4. You’ve done a good warm-up.

This means at least 15 to 20 minutes or so of light vocal exercises. It’s best not to do too much more than that, as you risk tiring yourself out. Think basic lip trills, hums, and sirens — you can never go wrong with those! It doesn’t need to be anything fancy.

5. You are dressed appropriately.

This means you look professional, but you are also not restricted in any way by clothing or shoes that are too tight, which can affect your breathing and overall comfort level. Remember — a comfortable body means free tone!

6. You’ve picked songs that are right for your voice type.

The tessitura of each song fits you like a glove. These songs are so worked into your voice that someone could wake you up at 3am to have you sing them— and you’d still sound good! That’s when you know you have the perfect audition songs for your voice.

7. The “coast is clear” – meaning your throat and sinuses!

You’re free of congestion and excess phlegm. This means your vocal cords will come together nicely to make beautiful sounds. Problems with congestion? Please don’t panic. Just do more lip trills and sirens!

8. You’re hydrated.

This is one of the most important singing audition tips to keep in mind. There’s nothing worse than the feeling of a dry throat when you have to sing! Just make sure you didn’t over-hydrate, because that can dry out your vocal folds, too.

One of my favorite things to suggest to singers is to cut an apple into quarters: this has the perfect ratio of water as well as citric acid to break up any light congestion. It’s the perfect pre-audition snack!

9. You know what you’re singing about.

Now this is a biggie! Singing the right notes, rhythms, and words is essential, but what good is all of that if you aren’t connecting dramatically? Those that choose to be compelling over perfect are almost always those that get hired!

10. You realize that the audition starts before you begin singing.

This means being kind and respectful to any audition monitors, stage managers, and definitely to your accompanist, should you be working with one! You never know who has the final say in whether or not you get hired or cast. Smile, be friendly, and be prompt! Being a diva will get you nowhere.

And lastly….

11. You are prepared to have FUN.

Yes, I said it. Auditions can indeed be fun. You are going to rock any vocal audition you do if you treat it like an intimate performance, rather than something you have to do.

With these singing audition tips, you’ll have an easier time dealing with the butterflies that try to creep up. If you are not already working with one, a voice teacher is also essential for preparing you for your auditions. There are so many great instructors with backgrounds in rock, pop, musical theater, and more. He or she can help you find the songs that fit your voice, as well as coach you further in the essentials listed above!

Break a leg! Remember that auditions do get easier the more often you do them… so get out there and show them what you’ve got!