How to Gain Confidence by Auditioning for American Idol

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By musicdeb
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No fear!

I dare say the majority of people reading this article are aware of the enormous popularity of American Idol. The combination of suspense, human interest stories and music has proven to be a winner for producer Simon Fuller.

Have you ever watched American Idol and dreamed of being one of the contestants? If you love to sing and welcome the opportunity to test your courage, plan to audition for the American Idol show!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

a pleasant voice (please!)
patience
computer research time

Step 1

Research.

First of all, check the American Idol web site for dates and locations of auditions. If there are no audition venues near you, prepare to stay overnight. You must register the day before you actually sing for the judges, so you need to be prepared for two days.
Step 2

Practice.

Choose 4-5 songs that are fitted to your personality and vocal range. Pick the songs from different styles of music. Even though American Idol is a search for the next big pop star, the judges sometimes want to hear what other genres of music you can do.

Practice these songs a capella (without music) until you can perform them to perfection. The more time you practice, the less chance you have of forgetting words or tunes in a moment of nervousness in front of the judges.
Step 3

As you practice, visualize yourself singing before people who may look disinterested, bored or even downright exasperated. Judges in the preliminary auditions listen to literally thousands of singers each week. Be pleasant and passionate in your performance without going too far over the top emotionally (unless you are trying to be featured as one of the "crazies" on American Idol).
Step 4

Sing your heart out.

Be prepared for rejection. This doesn't mean to have a loser attitude. Just be realistic about the situation and be prepared mentally if you do not get through to the next round of judging. Many people who audition are dismissed 10-20 seconds into their song. If you are asked to sing again, be gracious, smile, and show 'em what you got!
Step 5

Be proud of your courage.

Take each part of the process as it comes. Several auditions take place before you ever step in front of the judges seen on American Idol. Enjoy each phase of the process. Even if you do not make it to Hollywood, you have seized an opportunity that millions of people have only thought about. Every time you take the chance to step outside your comfort zone and sing in a situation that challenges your courage, you gain confidence in your abilities, and that's a good thing...