<p>As this school tends to have the most specific requirements, and having been to two Brent Wagner workshops, we know there is little room for error. In choosing a song from classical musical theater genre pre-1965, is it OK if it is from a musical movie, or must it be from a stage production? D is looking at a song he had one of the girls sing at one of the workshops, but he never mentioned whether it was appropriate for auditioning. Has anyone been successful with a song from a movie?</p>
<p>Melsmom....I plan to drop you a note later tonight and I only got online for a moment and happened to glance here and see your question. My D's pre 1965 song was from a movie....but was written by a very well known MT composer. While she did not get into UMich (though I believe her song was fine...not an issue), she did get into other schools that required a song from that time period by using this song (and got some nice feedback from it as it is NOT a common audition song). So, I think it IS fine to use for UMich. Talk soon...I have not been online and will explain.</p>
<p>Soozievt - so glad to hear from you. Thanks for the feedback. D loves the song and already knows it very well with full song, 16 and 32 bar cuts. I'd hate to have her change now. Looking forward to talking soon.</p>
<p>Melsmom, where and when does Brent Wagner do these audition workshops? Do they describe what he looks for in an applicant? How did you find out about them? Thanks so much!!</p>
<p>showbizgirl, the workshops my D went to are in Los Angeles at a Dance/Acting studio. I'm not sure what the relationship is between the director/owner of the studio and Mr. Wagner, but apparently he does a 3 day workshop every year over Memorial Day weekend. We originally heard about it from the director of the Spotlight Awards (connected to the Los Angeles Music Center). The students are selected by DVD audition; he requires each kid to send a repertoire list in the form of a Decade Chart, then he chooses a new song for them to learn before they come. The workshop focuses on "acting the song". They analyze each song, break it down and really understand what they're singing. He also covers the UMich program in terms of its philosophy and expectations (he presents this to the parents, as well). My D also attended a one day workshop in September in which he covered audition techniques, presentation, etc. Not as in depth as the first, but worthwhile, nonetheless. If you are in the L.A. area, I would highly recommend attending his workshops. It can at least let you know if you are a good fit for UMich. PM me if you are local and want contact info. Good Luck!</p>