singing

For some reason, I have an audition for our state choir this Tuesday.  As in, tomorrow.

My aunt has been on at me for a while to audition.  Her rationale is, as I’ve played the flute for so long (and to a decent level), that I must be able to sing.  I wouldn’t necessarily agree; but I’ve had singing lessons in the past, and I loved being in the school choir, so hell, I may as well give it a go.

I had a little practice at my aunt’s house last night, where she gave me several useful pointers.  I thought I’d better get them down before my addle-pated brain forgot them.

• Open your mouth properly – think ‘hot potatoes’ – this enables the soft palate to rise and produce a clear sound on the high notes (I’m a soprano);
• Use your diaphragm – get your minds out of the gutter, people!! It’s the muscle located below your lungs which helps control your breathing.
• Project!! I tend to have a little voice unless I deliberately sing to the back of the room.
• Use Cyberbass to learn your part in a choral work.  This is a fantastic resource which is free.
• Remember the dynamic markings.

I’m sure there were more, but yeah, my recall isn’t the best.

My aunt also gave me the name of a singing coach who she goes to.  The coach lives reasonably close to me so I’ll have to make sure to get in touch and arrange some lessons.  That is, if I get into the choir.  If I don’t, well, it’s less of a priority.

So the audition is at 6pm tomorrow night.  I’ll be singing an excerpt from Brahms’ German Requiem, and a little ditty Caro mio ben.  Wish me luck!