I typically do not watch reality TV shows. In spite of their titles, the shows feature very little real-life content. So my recent fascination with a new reality show, The Voice, caught me by surprise. The premise drew me in, and I had to check it out: four judges, all famous musicians, select teams of contestants through a blind audition process. Seated with their backs to the singer, the judges have the duration of the auditioner’s performance to decide if they want the singer on their team. Because of this blind audition process, the show claims that the judges are forced to focus solely on vocal ability and nothing else.
Although rare in the vocal arena, the concept of a blind audition is not unheard of in the musical world. Instrumentalists are given a number and audition behind a screen. Because each auditioner is essentially anonymous, biases and favoritism are eliminated.
While such a process has real appeal, its practicality in the vocal world is arguable. Unlike her instrumental counterpart, a singer’s body is part of the package. First and foremost, it is her instrument. In addition, a singer uses her eyes, mouths, cheeks, arms, hands, to emote, express, and create a presence. As for anonymity, even if a singer were behind a screen, her unique timbre would often reveal her identity.
And so, while bemusing about audition “what ifs” is fun, more important is learning to succeed within the process as it is, not as it might be. The articles in this issue paint a very real, enlightening picture of the current audition scene. From young artists to voice teachers, coaches, and those doing the hiring, the advice you need is here.
Two key elements singers need for a successful audition emerge from articles in this issue. First, a singer needs good, solid technique. Any glaring technical issues simply mean the singer is not ready for the opportunity before her. Second, a singer must connect with the music. She needs to resonate with the text and communicate its meaning and nuance through her performance.
So, how does one gain and then continue to hone strong vocal technique, musicality, and expressiveness for an unforgettable audition? It would be great if we could watch our own performances from the perspective of the audition judges. Unfortunately, most of us are unable to provide objective, educated self-criticism. That is why we have voice teachers and vocal coaches. The right teacher lays the foundation and gives you the tools that a good coach can then build upon with diction, dynamics, and drama.
As singers, we may not be able to change the audition procedure. But even with blind auditions, we would still need strong technique and musicality. And the one thing we can realistically control is our personal preparation.
By the time you hold this issue in your hands, the summer will be nearly half over. I will be that much closer to knowing who the winner of The Voice is, and we will all be closer to the fall audition season. So start reading now. Then call your voice teacher, e-mail your coach, and get into that practice room.
