<p>There seem to be so many rules regarding what makes a good and appropriate choice for an mt audition song.</p>
<p>There are so many experts here, I was wondering if one of you'd be willing to define this for me.</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>I’m sure some of the great experts here will chime in, but you might want to read through this post as a starting point:
<a href=“http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/11720364-post1.html[/url]”>http://talk.collegeconfidential.com/11720364-post1.html</a></p>
<p>I think way too much is made of song selection. It is really rather simple - check the requirements of the program(s) you are applying to - then find an age and sex appropriate selection within the program’s guidelines that you are comfortable singing and that shows your vocals ability to its best. Do not worry if it is “overdone” - especially if you do it well!</p>
<p>One thing I am wondering about is whether you have to choose a song sung by a character who is young (say, 20s). As long as the subject matter is not age inappropriate, does it really matter how old the character is (I know it does for the monologue but the song?)?</p>
<p>I think there is a bit more leeway with age for the songs than the monologues. I don’t think you have to stick with a song sung by a teen or young 20s. That said, steer away from songs truly meant for mature women like Rose’s Turn from Gypsy or Ladies Who Lunch from Follies! :D</p>
<p>When I was going through college auditions, I wanted to sing the coolest and most popular songs. But after two years at my university I realized that some of the best songs are the ones that aren’t so popular. Really start to listen to musicals you would have never thought of listening to and give them a shot. </p>
<p>It takes some hard work to go through and find them, but they are there. </p>
<p>Break a leg!</p>
<p>Make sure you can relate to the material and then go for it. It doesnt matter WHAT the song is, just that you can show your best side in it.</p>
<p>Rodgers and Hammerstein are often written off due to their fame, but I promise you that you could find 20 of their pieces that you didnt know before and that will actually be a good showcase for you. They are classical, and known as the best for a good reason.</p>
<p>Avoid really recent Tony winners. And do look at the “do not do” list. I heard lost in the wilderness (done poorly) and do i love you (similar) an infinite amount of times at unifieds. Also, remember that you will be compared to the original artist if its a well known number.</p>
<p>Try to intrigue your auditor by resurrecting an old (but remote) favorite, or by showing them something new. I surprised several of my auditors by bringing in a John Bucchino piece (Real Enough to Change my Mind) which they hadnt heard before.</p>
<p>And to contradict myself, dont stress about it.</p>
<p>Be yourself. Well, your CONFIDENT self. No matter what song you choose, give it your all and remember that they are just as scared of you as you are of them.</p>
<p>P.S. dont worry about age or sex or anything like that unless it is important to the character of the song or done from a really well known show.</p>
<p>but since there is such an infinite amount of material out there, you should have no trouble finding something for your typecast.</p>
<p>While I have heard a few directors say they are ok with hearing “overused” material, I have not heard of one who would encourage the use of a song that is not proper for your age and gender.</p>
<p>classicalbk- Sorry, i think there was miscommunication in my last post. </p>
<p>What i meant by that is that since there is SO MUCH available material, you will have no issue finding something that is age/gender appropriate. </p>
<p>But i do know that with some ambiguous songs it really doesnt matter, such as “dream a little dream of me” and other songs performed by all ages and sexes.</p>