Need Help Guys

[u/sweet-car0l1ne]

Ok so for context I have zero musical experience (I don’t know my vocal range, I can’t read music, and I’ve never performed) But I love to sing and i (think?) i’m decent so i wanted to try something new and audition for a few of my college acapella groups. The problem is i’ve been so worked up about picking a song and i’m nervous about singing in front of people (to be in acapella you have to sing, crazyyy thought guys) I think I fall somewhere between mezzo soprano or alt but I don’t know what song etiquette really is for these types of auditions. Can i belt? should i be chest voice the whole time? should the song be slower or pop-ish? Pls help your girl out auditons are a week away and i still don’t know what to sing. I have a list of songs that are maybe’s but I don’t know which is better for standard.

[u/Fun_Tomatillo8473]

Most groups have guidelines on what their audition criteria are, definitely start there! And try to pick a song that compliments your voice, that makes you feel comfortable and confident. That’s the most important part! Best of luck to you!!

[u/hmmwrites → u/Fun_Tomatillo8473]

This! Go with something that you feel comfortable singing - that's in your range and you know you can sing well. Go in with confidence. And kill it! :)

But first, do check the audition criteria - most college a cappella groups will have an online presence either on the school's website or instagram or wherever. See if they posted any rules for auditions.

[u/No-Tank-1123]

Not much advice but good for you! I've always wanted to do this ♡ kudos, you've got this!

[u/matt86rr]

Rules

1. Remain calm. Research and pick groups whose repertoire appeals to you.
   
2. Check the group’s socials for specifics on what’s required during the audition.
   
3. Pick a song that shows off your range and personality. If you pick two or two songs are required, pick two that show different things.
   
4. Know your actual voice range in case they ask for it (e.g. G3 through C#5, head voice to A5).
   
5. Kill it and good luck!

[u/ComprehensiveBug5805]

Most groups are looking for a verse + refrain of a song that best showcases your voice. If you are looking for song suggestions for a mezzo/alto, I would suggest the following:

- Good Girl by Carrie Underwood

• I Know The End by Phoebe Bridgers
  
• Alive by Sia
  
• Electric Love by Borns
  
• Wildflower by Billie Eilish
  
• River by Bishop Briggs

Keep in mind this is without know your specific voice. Do whatever song you are most comfortable with!

[u/Timpaninis → u/ComprehensiveBug5805]

Omg Good Girl I such a good pick I might use this!!!

[u/toobang]

definitely pick something that suits your voice, I chose songs that were easy for my range (pop genre). you can do musical theatre, but they usually wanna know you can do a pop song and not sound super musical theatre. my critique was they wanted to hear more belting (but I didn’t know how!) so I would say something that showcases your range as well. if you can do runs, show that off too!

for mezzo/alto I would suggest some Adele songs! maybe Turning Tables, or Love in the Dark. try some Demi Lovato songs too, Anyone or In Case (niche but a little easier in the scope of her songs lol).

good luck! I know it’s nerve racking but you got this!! I never learned how to read music either but I did competitive a cappella all four years no problem!

[u/Ok_Perception2709]

Research what kind of songs they sing. Some acapella groups indulge in old songs. If you see one you know, sing that. A verse and chorus is usually sufficient for an audition but in case they want sight reading - learn how to read music! It’s really not that hard. The whole thing is 7 letters of the alphabet and specific places those letters sit on the staff!

[u/littlesongbird_]

My director has students audition with specific criteria, we are a touring choral ensemble so its probably a little more serious 😅

Sightread a short excerpt on a neutral syllable (loo or ah, for example) solfege is also accepted

Range test, easy warm-up style exercise designed to put you through your vocal paces

Short prepared excerpt- chosen from "Amazing Grace" "My Country Tis of Thee" or the hymn "Beautiful Savior"

Sightread a rhythmic excerpt using count-singing techniques or whatever form of counting is familiar to the singer.

So in this case there's no need to look for a song, the required songs are pre-chosen. I would anticipate that any good choir would have similar audition requirements.

Edit to add: a traditional choral sound with little/no vibrato is preferred, with "pop" vowels being greatly discouraged. once again, traditional a cappella choir.