What Are People Looking For In Singing Auditions?

Question:A lot of it depends on genre but there are a few universal rules:

A strong consistent voice. It's no good if you're changing keys or hitting wrong notes all of the time. Depending on the level of audition they may or may not forgive a few squeaks because they know that they can work with you.

You know the song. So many people go into an audition without a good grasp of what they are singing. I mean, come on. How simple is it to understand that you can't go in and forget half of the song? What's going to happen during a performance if you can't even learn your audition material?

A strong presence while singing. If you stare straight ahead with your arms hung at your sides (or even worse, crossed in front of you) it's going to be pretty boring. Quash the stage fright. Realize that it's your job to show them what you can do and that they don't want you to do badly. Plant your feet firmly on the ground and let your body reflect what you are singing. You should act as though this is a real performance. Practice what movements you will make in advance and make sure they are appropriate to what you are singing. Don't just show the character you are singing - be the character. It doesn't matter what genre you are singing in.

Confidence, confidence, confidence.

You want the job. If you don't look like you want to be there then why would they want to work with you?

No attitude. There's a difference between confidence and attitude. Go in thinking "I can do this" but not "I'm better than anyone else".

Your appearance. Dress professionally, or in character; depending on what you think is appropriate. Or they may be looking for a short person when you are 5'5". Or you may not look visually appealing with the person cast in the opposite role. Unfortunately there's somethings that you just can't do a thing about.

Good Luck!