ensamble help?

Question:k,im going into this solo/ensamble thing.& the biggest group of ppl i have ever sang in front of is like,10 - 15 ppl,& this is a school thing.how can i over come my fear of this?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: k,im going into this solo/ensamble thing.& the biggest group of ppl i have ever sang in front of is like,10 - 15 ppl,& this is a school thing.how can i over come my fear of this?

Ah....I remember those days, except I did flute things, not voice (was too chicken to join choir). In many ways, it's a good thing that you're nervous because it shows that you care. The key here is handling your nerves so that you can still perform well. This just takes time (years even) and experience in learning how to accept them, but not let them get in your way all that much. The key about doing well at a competition is preparation. Most judges at local competitions aren't going to nail you if you mess up a bit, but are clearly prepared. They will take off points if it comes clear to them if you are not.

Work on your piece each day so that it become ingrained into your memory. If you know anything about music theory, you can analyze the piece in terms of it's form, chordal structure and changes, and even history of the composer (and arranger if given). See if you can get the hold of several recordings of the piece so that you can hear how different singers perform it.

A few days before the contest, sing through your piece three times in a row without stops. This will also allow for you to build up endurance and how to recoup when and if you make a mistake. You may want to have some "regroup" spots marked in your copy of the music (if allowed). Visualize yourself singing well in front of the judge and audience. If you feel yourself getting nervous over that, good...it'll help you work through the nerves and keep on going. You can even visualize the judge writing stuff down (which may be good comments, btw).

Also, this seems like a small detail, but also practice in the clothes that you will be wearing the day of the competition. That way, you will physically know what it's like to be in the clothes, including heels (if any). If you do wear heels, I would suggest not wearing a high one. This is because high heels can be very tiring onthe feet and throw your balance off.

Most of all, try to have fun with the competition. This is YOUR time to show off all the hard work you put into the solo and to recieve constructive feedback from the judge on how to make it even better for the future.

Good Luck!