Caitlin Craig OB Chapter 13 Summary

Chapter Summary: There aren't many other careers that requires a greater plethora of skills and discipline than singing.  It takes years of hard work to get to where you need to be to engage in a professional career.  Teachers cannot instill a career on student.  The student must have that drive in themselves.
Some characteristics that successful singers have are:
1. voice
2. technique
3. flair and poise
4. interpretive ability
5. musicianship and musicality
6. physical appearance
7. stage personality
8. ability to handle people
9. basic repertoire
10. reliability and dependability
11. experience
12.love for art
13. physical and emotional health
14. efficient management and publicity
15. timing
In order to start a career you must get your name out, and auditioning is a great way to do that. For auditions remember:
1. select songs that show your voice
2. the verse is never better than the refrain
3. pick the section of the song that shows you best
4. sopranos, show your high voice, altos show warmth
5. if you do a cut version, announce it
6. don't carry something with you that you don't want to sing
7. avoid common sung songs that are often sung and done well.
The best way to perform/audition is to come with a love for singing, and be confident about your ability to technically express the music.  Have the thought and state of mind that you want to share what you are feeling with your listeners, forget criticism, and present yourself in the best manner you know how to.  The judges will like you, or they won't, and that's their problem. This state of mind will set you up for success.
Remember to sing because you love singing, and it fulfills your need for expression.  "The greatest of artists never stop studying and analyzing their own performances to find ways to improve."
Key Terms:
Key Concepts: singing requires incredible discipline.  Auditioning is a means of publicity and getting your name out.  When singing, bring your best self, and an attitude of gratitude to share your thoughts and feelings with your audience.
Making Connections: I liked the advice of the young lady who brought her love of singing to each audition/performance  I would like to instill this not only on my singing, but future students' singing as well.  Remember that singing is a means of personal expression and to share that desire of communication with others.