What is a good song to use for a 16-Bar Audition?

Question

I am a mezzo-soprano. I have a song that I normally use, but when an audition asks for only 16 bars, it doesn't show range. Any ideas?

Answer 1

As Long As He Needs Me from Oliver.

Answer 2

It is essential to choose a song perfectly within your range. Don't try to stretch your voice in an audition. It is better to nail it with strength and energy an note below your max, than to crack trying to hit too high. Choose a song that has some range to it if possible - going from low to high at some point. Make sure it isn't too overdone by others, but also not too obscure. YOu want the accompanist to be some what familiar with it so they can play it well enough for you. Make sure it's a song you enjoy - so that you can "sell" it when you sing. Remember that lots of energy and a great attitude can go a long way too! Also remember that it doesn't HAVE to be a Broadway tune - unless they specify that somewhere in the audition posting. Once you pick your song - you can break it down to the 16 bars. Sometimes it is as easy as counting 16 bars backward from the climactic ending of a song - or 16 bars back from the end of a verse leading to the bridge or coda. Usually they aren't too strict about sticking to 16 bars. You can sometimes get away with a couple of more... Break a Leg!

Answer 3

One thing you can do is isolate the best 16 bars of the song you usually use. You don't have to start the song at the beginning. You know you want to use the part of the song that shows the most range and that hits the climax of the song---usually 16 from the end or 16 in the middle of the bridge to the end. Also, the book the other person suggested is really great for ideas---even if you don't buy it, see if you can find it, and you'll get the idea what part of the song is best to use. Another tip: Try not to use songs that everyone knows--use more obscure rep. That way, they won't be tempted to compare you to the original, you'll stand out. If there are certain shows you like, don't do the song everyone does (ie "Defying Gravity" from Wicked); find a song that may be still known, but not always used (i.e. "Far from the home I love" from Fiddler on the Roof). Good luck!

Answer 4

This is all going to depend on what it is you are auditioning for and what style you need to showcase among many other things. There is a book called The16-Bar Theatre Audition: 100 Songs Excerpted for Successful Auditions (Vocal Collection - Mezzo Soprano/Belter) (Paperback.) You can find it at almost any music store that sells sheet music. This will be a good reference for you i'm sure.

Just remember, when you pick an audition piece, you want to show your versatility, range, experience, and preparedness. Pick something that is age appropriate and try not to sing anything too big. As a Casting Director, I really can't stand to see people audition with wrong pieces.

As for giving you suggestions, I can't really with out knowing you, what you are auditioning for, or what you are capable of. I know this book is a good start so try there.

I hope this helps.

Answer 5

What's your acting type?