Ah, deadlines. As I write this, another one draws nigh as we finalize the April issue of Classical Singer. Somehow that looming deadline always spurs me to action, to do more than merely stare at the blinking cursor flashing against the stark white backdrop of the blank Word document. With the approaching deadline, my fingers strike the keys and words begin to fill the page. The adrenaline kicks in and ideas begin to flow because, well, they must.
I have often wished that I were not so deadline driven. How would it feel to plan further ahead? To start sooner? To finish well in advance? And more importantly, where do I find the motivation, if not from that all inspiring cutoff point that screams “do or die”?
As an editor, my job revolves around deadlines—those self imposed, those imposed on others, and those imposed on me by others. And while I might wish otherwise, I have learned that deadlines are essential. We accomplish more when we have finite finish lines.
As singers, deadlines are not always hard and fast. Roles should be memorized when rehearsals start; audition arias should be finely honed and polished before ever entering the audition room; headshots and letters of recommendation should be obtained well in advance of application deadlines—the operative word here being “should.”
Because preparation remains entirely up to us, we ritually fail to establish important deadlines for ourselves and consequently arrive at others’ deadlines unprepared. That can be especially true each fall when another audition season rolls around. A complete and polished audition package includes a headshot, recordings, audition attire, and the proverbial five arias. A polished package cannot be thrown together at the last minute. If that finish line sneaks up on us, we may be judged by less than our best.
Carol Anderson offers an antidote in her article “Spring Training” (p. 32). Her thoughtful sports analogy will make you think differently about your own audition preparation during the “off season.” Also in this issue, Devon Cass shares how you can get a great headshot (p. 28). Finding a great photographer and getting beautiful prints now will save you hassle and headache come September.
The entire Classical Singer staff is heavily involved in final preparations for another upcoming deadline: the tenth annual Classical Singer Convention in Boston this May. If you’re looking for inspiration, motivation, and tips on how to better prepare yourself during this off-season, join together with hundreds of other singers and professionals at this year’s convention. Find out more in the ad on p. 23 and online at www.classicalsinger.com/convention.
Don’t let this fall audition season catch you by surprise. Prepare now with some self-imposed deadlines to ensure you put your best self forward when you have to meet others’ deadlines.
