I need some advice from fellow choir singers?

Question

I have been in school choirs since the 4th grade. I am a freshman in high school now, and of course I signed up for choir. In the past I have been a Soprano 1, with a range from low F sharp to a high G. Today I went through voice testing, and I had to sing in front of a bunch of upperclassmen. In addition my throat was bothering me. I was placed as an Alto, which is really bothering me because I am much more comfortable with high notes. Tomorrow is my last chance to prove myself a Soprano, and I was wondering if anyone had some advice for me. I need ways to stay calm and focus on keeping the throat open and soft palate lifted.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Basic physical stuff: don't drink milk (or put it on your breakfast cereal in the morning) tomorrow. Avoid cheese, etc. in your lunch. Have some peppermint or other herbal tea (avoid caffeinated beverages) to warm up the throat. Try to drink something warm before the test, as well. If the area where you are going to be tested has carpet, lie down on your back for a bit before the test (which also has the psychological benefit of relaxing you)

Psyche: this is a little harder, because nervousness feeds on itself. I know when I think about being nervous, the butterflies just swarm faster in the stomach! Do talk to your choir director - keeping your voice low and calm, of course - about your placement and let him/her know that a) you were nervous and b) you had a bit of throat difficulty which was artificially lowering your range. Anyone reasonable will give you another try, and simply talking will help.

Do not think about the technical details of the song as much as you think about the lyrics. You will be much more expressive - and relaxed - if you concentrate on the truths or emotions being expressed by the words. If they are in Latin, or Italian, or French, hopefully you have a gloss translation to get the general idea.

I hope that helps, and good luck with the audition!

Hugs from the bard () () ()

Answer 2

You sound like you know what you're doing, have presented the facts objectively and have the situation in focus. My advice:

Regardless of Their Decision it's probably not permanent. When your throat stops bothering you, by tomorrow, hopefully, they will hear your true range and value. Perhaps they will really hear your voice and what you tell them placing you in the Sopranos. If they don't enjoy singing alto; alternately, also learn the soprano part; who knows . . .

Don't tell yourself that you're nervous - it takes energy away from you and drains you. Tell yourself that you're EXITED! It feels the same as nervous inside your body - but in GIVES you energy. Really! Excitement helps you to do your best!

On the other hand, they may just need more altos.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Just stay calm about it... Believe that you will be able to do it. I been singing in a mass choir ever since the age of five. But, drink
water and don't use cough drops or peppermints use a lemon instead. Peppermints will only make your voice scratcher. Gargle with warm water with salt. and calm nerves! You'll be fine... but in case you don't get to be a soprano don't worry about it. I'm not really a good soprano either. Best Wishes! Ms. Doe

Answer 4

I think you should trust fate and sing Alto this year. Reason: Sopranos usually sing melody, while Altos usually sing the harmonies just below the melody, which is excellent ear training. Sometimes life points us in directions that we don't want to go, but it turns out to be the best thing for us. Go with it, just for a year -- someday you may be glad you did!

Answer 5

Whatever you do don't raise your voice. Don't drink milk and drink some water. Maybe practice hitting high notes. Just stay calm and relax everything will be alright. When you practice keep your teeth well spread apart. It always helps me!